Mike Matusow is a certified bad boy of Poker. In fact, he has earned his nickname "The Mouth" from numerous episodes of trash-talking his opponents right at the Poker table. Although his attitude is not as pleasant as other professional players around, Mike managed to solicit a fan base mainly for his excellent skill in playing Poker. Known to many, he has had previous battles with personal problems including weight and drug issues. But all those did not stop them from admiring Mike for being the intense player that he is.
The player that people love and hate at the same time is a native of Los Angeles, California. He was born Michael Matusow on April 30, 1968. It might be surprising to know that he was bullied at school but that is the truth. Mike (the bully) suffered from constant bullying while he was growing up and it prompted him not to continue schooling through college. Instead, he worked as an auto mechanic and later as a personnel at his family's furniture business.
Mike's introduction to the world of gambling was when he was 18. He tried Video Poker at the Maxim Casino and loved it. He even suffered shoulders and arms strain due to repetitive playing. At one point, Mike was brought to Gamblers Anonymous meetings. This is to cure his addiction to Video Poker, which made him stole money from his mom's purse. At 21, he was taught how to play Texas Hold'em. With a 51-53 win-loss record at the onset, it is not at all surprising that Mike turned his backs on everything and focused his mind on Poker.
Mike's first big break at Poker did not happen until 1999 when he earned his first World Series of Poker bracelet. This was followed with constant appearances at the final table and another championship win in the 2002 event. He was also named the ultimate champ of WSOP's Tournament of Champions in 2005. Those wins, along with numerous final table appearances at world events that he has entered earned Mike a fortune of close to $6 million as of this writing.
Aside from being busy with Poker tournaments here and there, Mike is also involved in Card Player's radio show and online video segment. he currently resides in Henderson, Nevada. His 3,700 square foot property which he now calls home and a BMW 645 CI cabriolet are fruits of his Poker winnings.
