Some assignments bring you face-to-face with larger-than-life characters who redefine your understanding of grit, unpredictability, and raw personality. For journalist Michael Kaplan, one such encounter was with poker legend Mike “The Mouth” Matusow. The story, a mix of legal drama, reckless wagers, and unfiltered candour, remains a testament to Matusow’s outsized presence in the poker world.
Kaplan recalls the assignment that introduced him to Matusow—a story centred on a professional poker player entangled in an ecstasy bust that ended with a jail sentence. It wasn’t long before the assignment turned into a vivid exploration of Matusow’s fiery personality, remarkable skill, and complex life.
From the Poker Table to the Jail Cell
The early 2000s were a wild time for poker, and Matusow was right in the thick of it. Kaplan’s task was to report on how Matusow ended up serving six months in jail following an ecstasy sting. For most, incarceration would be a humbling experience. But for Matusow, it became yet another chapter in his colourful narrative.
During their conversation, Matusow shared how jail time offered him a new perspective on life. What didn’t change, however, was his willingness to embrace high-stakes risks. “I’m stuck $60,000. But that’s okay,” Matusow declared unapologetically. The wild ride wasn’t over, as he explained his philosophy of betting even deeper once he hit $200,000 in losses.
Did he truly stick to that limit? Perhaps. Perhaps not. With Matusow, it’s never just about the truth—it’s about the story.
The Unfiltered Persona That Dominates Poker
Matusow isn’t just known for his gameplay; he’s famous for his unabashed personality. Whether he’s railing at opponents or peppering his speech with profanity, his antics have made him a staple of poker telecasts. Yet beneath the brash exterior lies a mind honed to read opponents with surgical precision.
Kaplan recounts how Matusow’s skill was acknowledged by none other than Phil Hellmuth, who embraced him after winning his 16th WSOP bracelet. According to Hellmuth, Matusow’s expertise in deuce-to-seven lowball played a pivotal role in his victory. It’s this duality—the loudmouth gambler with a razor-sharp strategic edge—that makes Matusow a compelling figure.
Highs, Lows, and the Game That Never Ends
Like any gambler, Matusow has experienced his share of crushing lows. From a streak of bad beats to physical pain from an injury involving Dan Bilzerian’s sports car, life has thrown its fair share of curveballs. Yet Matusow’s resilience is as much a hallmark of his character as his penchant for audacious bets.
Kaplan caught up with him again at Resorts World in 2021, where Matusow was basking in a winning streak. “I’m playing so good,” he boasted, recounting how his intuition led to a series of impeccable plays. His confidence was palpable, a stark contrast to the struggles he’d faced in prior years.
The Poker Star’s Love for Side Bets
One of Kaplan’s most memorable encounters with Matusow took place off the felt, during a Golf Digest assignment. While Matusow had no interest in playing golf, he couldn’t resist tagging along to taunt players and throw out prop bets. Holding a $5,000 chip, he shrugged and said, “I’ll bet on anything.”
The light-hearted scene highlighted a truth about Matusow: the man thrives on the thrill of the gamble. Whether at a poker table or a golf course, his energy is infectious. It’s this spirit that has kept him a fixture in the poker world—and a favourite among fans and fellow players alike.
Kaplan’s reflections on Matusow are as entertaining as the man himself, even if the original story didn’t make it to print. From wild anecdotes to profound insights, Matusow’s life continues to be a mix of chaos, brilliance, and charm.
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