May / June 2006:

Poker Pro: Mike Matusow
He has been, in some ways, as troubled as Stu Ungar. He's also as talented, but what people know Mike Matusow for the most remains his big mouth.

by Bradford R. Pilcher



If only he'd just shut up and play, people might not be required to wear headphones when they sit down across from Mike Matusow. But if he shut up, he wouldn't be Mike Matusow, and nobody wants to be rid of the uber-talent that Matusow brings to the table (along with the ever-present "Chai" necklace).

Mini-Profiles:

Learn more about these Jewish poker pros. They're just a few of the many. Annie Duke Howard Lederer David Sklansky Mel Judah Barry Greenstein Josh Arieh Mike "The Mouth" Matusow Mike "The Grinder" Mizrachi Jack "Treetop" Straus

The truth is, Matusow may be one of the greatest poker players alive today. Even if he wasn't, his pechant for table talk would make him one of the most entertaining. But his past is a troubled one, and its kept him from achieving his fullest potential.

In 2003, he was arrested in drug charges after an undercover agent befriended him and convinced him to procure cocaine. After spending six months in jail, he said the experience profoundly changed his outlook on life.

In addition, he has had to overcome his oft-occurring "Matusow Meltdowns, where his habit of making spectacular mistakes when on the verge of victory has cost him boatloads of money.

Nevertheless, despite all the obstacles, Matusow has earned over $3.5 million in live tournament winnings with two World Series bracelets and a win at the second World Series of Poker Tournament of Champions. That victory alone netted him $1 million.


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