medium · Poker Theory Preflop

Game: No-Limit Hold'em | Format: Cash Game | Blinds: 1/2 | Effective Stacks: 100 bb | Context: You hold AKo on the Button. The CO opens to 2.5bb. Why is AKo often a 3-bet for value rather than a cold-call in this spot?

1. 3-betting is purely a 'Bluff' to get the CO to fold better hands like QQ.
2. If you cold-call, you are 'Sunk-Cost' committed to the pot regardless of the flop. (under this line) (under this line)
3. 3-betting reduces the field, allows for better equity realization, and builds a pot you are likely to win.
4. AKo has 100% equity against the CO's opening range, so you must raise.

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