Greg “Fossilman” Raymer, renowned for his distinctive holographic reptilian eye glasses, burst into the poker world by winning the 2004 World Series of Poker Main Event. This victory, which earned him $5 million, drew comparisons to Chris Moneymaker, as both players emerged from relative obscurity through PokerStars satellites. Raymer’s journey from a patent attorney to a poker legend is a remarkable tale.
Early Life and Career
Born in 1964, Greg Raymer spent his formative years in Lansing, Michigan, and Clearwater, Florida, before graduating from the University of Minnesota Law School in 1992. He pursued a career as a patent attorney and relocated to Connecticut in 1999. During this time, he discovered poker at Foxwoods Resort Casino. Raymer’s frequent contributions to poker strategy forums began building his online presence.
Road to Main Event Victory
After a modest win in a 2001 Omaha WSOP event, it took Raymer three more years to qualify for the Main Event through a $160 satellite. PokerStars, which had already sent notable winners Chris Moneymaker and Joseph Hachem to the WSOP, played a crucial role in Raymer’s journey.
Main Event Triumph
In 2004, Raymer displayed exceptional poker skills, outlasting competitors like Dan Harrington, the 1995 Main Event winner, and ultimately defeating David Williams to claim the $5 million prize. Returning to the Main Event in 2005 with his signature holographic glasses, Raymer finished 24th, falling short of defending his title after a heartbreaking bad beat.
Poker Ambassadorship
Highly regarded for his friendly and approachable demeanor, Raymer is well-liked by poker fans and players alike. Notably, he maintained composure when verbally berated by Mike Matusow during the 2004 Main Event. As a poker ambassador, he actively participates in interviews and public events to promote the game. Raymer’s ability to balance his poker career with his family life is one of his most admirable qualities.
Life After WSOP
Following his Main Event victory, Greg Raymer joined the original PokerStars Team of WSOP champions, representing the brand until 2011. He continued to compete in live tournaments, achieving significant success, including a 3rd-place finish in the 2009 WSOP 40th Anniversary Event, securing $775,000. Raymer’s total live tournament earnings exceed $7.5 million.
Views on Modern Poker
In a 2014 interview, Raymer discussed the impact of the internet on poker, emphasizing how it democratized access to poker resources, enabling aspiring players to improve rapidly. However, he acknowledged the challenges this presented to professional players.
Controversy and Redemption
In 2013, Raymer faced controversy when he was arrested in a prostitution sting. He defended his actions by arguing that consensual adult behavior should not be prosecuted. Despite the negative publicity, Raymer saw the incident as an opportunity for personal growth, participating in volunteer work and therapy to rebuild trust with his wife, Cheryl.