Reyes pockets fourth straight Derby title

Former world 9-ball champion Efren "Bata" Reyes firmed up his claim as the top one-pocket player in the world today, beating Cliff Joyner in the final, 3-1, and capping an undefeated run in the Derby City One Pocket tournament at the Executive West Hotel in Louisville, Kentucky.

The victory, his fourth straight Derby City One Pocket crown, came on the heels of Reyes’ runner-up finish in last week’s Bank Pool event, thus making him the heavy favorite for the Master of the Table bonus prize.

Three rounds of 9-ball play have been completed with the fourth round still being played at presstime.

Reyes, the reigning 8-ball champion and holder of the inaugural World Cup with buddy Francisco "Django" Bustamante, swept his first three games in the 9-ball event.

On his way to the championship, Reyes dominated Daryl Gable, thumped Michael Cardarelli, whipped Tom Neil, defeated Trevor Braymore, rapped Robert Ohashi, won over Tony Crosby, downed Fabio Petroni, ripped Mike Davis, outplayed Jose Parica before beating Bustamante in the 11th and 12th rounds to arrange a title showdown with Joyner.

Joyner, who needed to beat Reyes twice to win the crown, advanced to the finals with a win over Michael Surber in a marathon match that lasted over two hours.

In contrast, Reyes took roughly 25 minutes to eliminate Bustamante, 3-0.