Predator Pro Billiard Series Unveils a Spectacular Straight Pool Showdown in Las Vegas : The 2026 Las Vegas Straight Pool Face Off : Darren Appleton vs. John Schmidt
February 2026 marks another major chapter for professional pool in Las Vegas, where the Pro Billiard Series takes center stage during the CSI Expo.
This year, PBS introduces an exciting, American-style special Straight Pool Face Off match, taking place on February 21, 2026, on TV Table 1 at 7pm the Westgate Las Vegas Resort & Casino.
More than a match. A showcase of mastery.
This head-to-head will feature two living legends of the sport:
· Darren Appleton
· John Schmidt — American pro and straight pool (14.1 continuous) master, known as “Mr. 626” after his 626-ball run in 2019, a world-record mark that stood until 2025.
One match. Race to 200.
Highlighting the Depth of Cue Sports Disciplines
This Straight Pool Face Off is not just an exhibition. It is a deliberate effort to highlight the richness and versatility of professional pool. By putting the spotlight on this historic discipline, Predator offers fans a unique experience while honoring the roots of the game and demonstrating the breadth of talent across formats.
“This is more than a match — it’s a chance to showcase the depth of talent across multiple pool disciplines.”, Vincent Rochefort, Director of Sport, Predator Group
Free for Spectators. Free for the World.
On-site spectators: No tickets required. Fans can attend and enjoy world-class billiards free of charge as part of the CSI Expo.
Fans worldwide: Watch live for free. The match will be streamed live, along with three TV tables, for free on the offical PBS YouTube channel Pro Billiard TV : Click-here to watch
Part of the Biggest PBS Stop of the Season
The Straight Pool Face Off is integrated into the largest stop of the season for the Pro Billiard Series, running February 18–27, 2026, which also features:
· Las Vegas Men’s Open — February 18–23
· Las Vegas Women’s Open — February 19–23
· Las Vegas Junior Open — February 24–27
· Predator WPA Teams 10-Ball World Championship — February 24–27
Three major Opens. A World Championship. And now, a Straight Pool duel destined to make history.
Join Us. Witness History. Showcase the Future of Pool.
PBS invites players, partners, fans, and the entire billiards community to be part of a new way of experiencing professional pool — more spectacular, more immersive, and more daring.
Thank you for trusting us. Thank you for supporting innovation. Thank you for helping grow the sport we all love.
Join us. Witness history. Showcase the future of pool.