The Top 10 Most Iconic WSOP Main Event Winners

The WSOP Main Event has crowned many champions, but only a select few have left an indelible mark on the poker world. Here’s a countdown of the 10 most iconic winners, ranked by their impact on poker history.

10. Tom McEvoy (1983)

Tom McEvoy made history in 1983 as the first player to win the Main Event after qualifying via a satellite tournament. This achievement opened the doors for countless players to dream of reaching the WSOP without needing massive bankrolls. Beyond his win, McEvoy became a prominent voice in poker advocacy, campaigning for smoke-free poker rooms—a change that greatly improved the playing environment. His victory proved that poker wasn’t just for high rollers; it was a game anyone could excel at with skill and determination.

9. Johnny Moss (1970, 1971, 1974)

Known as the “Grandfather of Poker,” Johnny Moss won the first-ever WSOP Main Event in 1970, decided by a player vote. He followed this up with two more Main Event wins in 1971 and 1974, solidifying his status as one of poker’s first legends. Moss was instrumental in legitimizing poker as a competitive sport during a time when it was largely confined to smoky backrooms. His contributions to the early days of the WSOP helped lay the foundation for the global phenomenon poker has become today.

8. Greg Raymer (2004)

Greg “Fossilman” Raymer captured the hearts of fans with his down-to-earth personality and signature holographic sunglasses during his 2004 WSOP Main Event run. His victory, which came on the heels of Chris Moneymaker’s win the previous year, reinforced the idea that everyday players could thrive in poker’s biggest spotlight. Raymer’s consistency and engaging table presence made him a fan favorite and helped sustain the poker boom that was just beginning.

7. Joe Hachem (2005)

In 2005, Joe Hachem became the first Australian to win the WSOP Main Event, taking home $7.5 million. His victory, punctuated by the now-famous “Aussie Aussie Aussie” celebration, put Australia on the poker map and helped expand the game’s reach internationally. Hachem’s charm and class made him a global ambassador for poker, inspiring countless players worldwide to pursue the game professionally.

6. Jamie Gold (2006)

Jamie Gold’s record-setting $12 million win in 2006 came during the height of the poker boom. His aggressive playing style and relentless table talk captivated audiences and made for one of the most entertaining Main Event final tables in history. While his post-WSOP career has been less prominent, Gold’s massive win remains a symbol of the game’s peak popularity and its power to create unforgettable stories.

5. Phil Hellmuth (1989)

At just 24 years old, Phil Hellmuth shocked the poker world in 1989 by defeating two-time defending champion Johnny Chan to win the Main Event. This victory launched Hellmuth’s career as one of poker’s most recognizable—and polarizing—figures. Known as the “Poker Brat,” Hellmuth’s fiery personality and record-breaking 17 WSOP bracelets have cemented his legacy as one of the greatest players of all time.

4. Stu Ungar (1980, 1981, 1997)

Stu Ungar is widely regarded as one of the most talented players in poker history. His back-to-back Main Event wins in 1980 and 1981 showcased his incredible skill, while his 1997 comeback victory after years of personal struggles remains one of the most inspiring stories in poker. Ungar’s unmatched talent and tragic personal life have made him a legendary, almost mythical figure in the poker world.

3. Johnny Chan (1987, 1988)

Johnny Chan’s back-to-back Main Event wins in 1987 and 1988 solidified him as one of poker’s all-time greats. His iconic clash with Erik Seidel in the 1988 final hand was immortalized in the movie Rounders, introducing Chan to a new generation of poker fans. As one of the most respected players in history, Chan’s influence on poker continues to be felt today.

2. Doyle Brunson (1976, 1977)

Doyle Brunson, often called “Texas Dolly,” is a true pioneer of poker. His back-to-back Main Event victories in 1976 and 1977 helped elevate the WSOP’s prestige and showcased his dominance in the game. Brunson’s book, Super/System, became the first comprehensive poker strategy guide and remains a must-read for serious players. As one of poker’s greatest ambassadors, Brunson’s contributions to the game are immeasurable.

1. Chris Moneymaker (2003)

Chris Moneymaker’s improbable victory in 2003 changed poker forever. The accountant from Tennessee qualified for the Main Event through a $39 online satellite and went on to win $2.5 million. His story, now known as the “Moneymaker Effect,” inspired millions of everyday players to believe they, too, could achieve poker glory. Moneymaker’s win is widely credited with sparking the modern poker boom and turning poker into a global phenomenon. No other champion has had a greater impact on the game’s growth and popularity.

These champions didn’t just win titles—they shaped the history and culture of poker. Their legacies continue to inspire players and elevate the game we all love.