What remarkable players did he beat out?
Maybe you missed his post (#3), but these were the people he was up against in the poll.
The only person to my knowledge on that list that would classify as a strong player and instructor is Max Eberle.
His match vs Ronnie was my first time watching, but I'd agree with your assessment from what I've seen.
While he did play well at the end of that match to win, I'm pretty sure Ronnie being visibly tired and playing his worst was a bigger factor.