The History of WSOP
Ted Binion is credited with founding the World Series of Poker (WSOP) back in the 1970s. The tourney was based on a 5-month high-stakes contest between legends Johnny Moss and ‘Nick the Greek’ Dandalos, over 20 years ago. The popular of that event and those succeeding it were the cornerstone of today’s WSOP.
Johnny Moss won the very first WSOP, by popular vote, not by process of elimination. By the 2nd WSOP event, the winner was selected by process of elimination: the last man standing. This time it was Johnny Moss too. The 3rd WSOP was won by Amarillo Slim. Subsequent winners have become the stuff of legend.
The hype
The worldwide explosion in poker gaming popularity means that this game has come a long way since the 1970s. The more WSOP bracelets a player wins, the more popular that player is. The hype around the WSOP has grown in leaps and bounds with the addition of satellites and online poker tourneys.
The determination of the WSOP final table sparks lots of interest. Back in 2008, the WSOP generated tremendous buzz with advertising spots being sold on players’ bodies for the final table via Ebay. That same year, Peter Eastgate became the youngest-ever player to scoop the WSOP Main Event and $9.1 million, at the tender age of 22. Before him, Phil Helmuth held the mantel.
The World Series of Poker – All Are Eligible
Owing to the prolific nature of online satellites, the WSOP is now a global phenomenon. Virtually anyone, anywhere in the world has a chance to compete in a WSOP event. Prior to Chris Moneymaker winning his seat to the WSOP via PokerStars in 2003, few folks believed the concept of satellite tourneys held much water.
That changed overnight when Moneymaker won the WSOP that year.
The WSOP is held annually in Las Vegas, Nevada – just as it was back in 1970 with but a few players. Today there are tens of thousands of entrants from all over the world competing in this prestigious tournament. The Main Event buy-in costs $10,000.
