Steal the pot with a big 3-bet behind an open raise and a cold call. Master the sizing, hand selection, and timing of the squeeze play.
A squeeze occurs when someone open-raises, one or more players cold call, and then you make a large 3-bet from behind.
The difference from a standard 3-bet:
| Type | Situation | Fold Equity |
|---|---|---|
| Standard 3-bet | Facing only the opener | Moderate |
| Squeeze | Facing opener + caller(s) | High |
IP Squeeze: Open size x 3–4 + caller's amount OOP Squeeze: Open size x 4–5 + caller's amount
Pot before squeeze: SB 1 + BB 2 + MP 5 + CO 5 = 13
IP formula: 2.5 x 3.5 = 8.75 + caller 2.5 = 11.25
Rounded up: approximately 11–12bb is appropriate → 22 (11bb) chosen
In practice, going slightly larger = more folds induced
Pot before squeeze: SB 1 + BB 2 + UTG 5 + HJ 5 = 13
OOP formula: 2.5 x 4.5 = 11.25 + caller 2.5 = 13.75
Rounded up: approximately 14bb is appropriate → 28 (14bb) chosen
OOP sizes larger than IP: compensating for postflop positional disadvantage
Hands that are profitable even when called:
| Hand | Reason |
|---|---|
| QQ, KK, AA | Premium hands; fine against calls or 4-bets |
| JJ | Mostly value; calling is also an option in some spots |
| AKs, AKo | Strong equity when called; can go all-in vs 4-bet |
Hands targeting fold equity:
| Hand | Why It's a Good Bluff |
|---|---|
| A5s–A2s | Ace blocker + suited + low cards preserve folding range |
| K9s–K7s | King blocker + suited + playable if called |
| 76s, 65s | Complete unblockers + decent equity + nut potential |
Conditions for a Profitable Squeeze
Source: Upswing Poker — SplitSuit
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