Johnny Moss, a poker icon, is celebrated for his exceptional contributions to the poker world. He not only clinched the inaugural World Series of Poker (WSOP) Main Event but achieved this feat a remarkable three times. Moss’s pivotal role in shaping poker led to his induction as the first member of the Poker Hall of Fame, earning him a place in poker history.
Early Life and Introduction to Poker
Born on May 14, 1907, in Marshall, Texas, Moss faced adversity early in life, with his mother’s tragic passing and his father’s debilitating work-related injury. At just fifteen, he began working for the Western Union Telegraph Company to support his family. During his spare moments, Moss frequented local pool halls, where he honed his gambling skills, always striving to send money back to his loved ones.
During this period, Moss crossed paths with Benny Binion, a pivotal figure who imparted invaluable card-playing wisdom and became a lifelong friend.
The Journey to Becoming a Poker Pro
By age sixteen, Moss secured a job at the Otter’s Club, where he learned the art of preventing cheating in card games, developing a deep passion for poker by observing regulars at the club. His engagement to Virgie Ann Mouser, despite her father’s initial reservations, marked a personal milestone. However, the details of their relationship remain shrouded in mystery.
Moss’s rapid transformation into a seasoned poker player was astounding. He frequently left the club with substantial earnings, and after two years of refining his poker skills, he chose to become a “rounder.” This decision led him to travel across Texas, Oklahoma, and Louisiana, engaging in high-stakes poker games, particularly in Texas, amidst the oil boom.
Fearless both on and off the poker table, Moss once confronted a casino’s suspected cheating tactics by brandishing his pistol, demanding they cease their unfair practices.
Legendary Duel Against Nick “The Greek” Dandolos
In 1951, Benny Binion reentered Moss’s life with a unique proposition: a tournament against the legendary Nick “The Greek” Dandolos at the Horseshoe Casino in Las Vegas. This historic match attracted large crowds, with each hand played in public view. Over five intense months, Moss and Dandolos engaged in various poker games, including 5-card No Limit Stud, 7-card Stud, 7-card Hi-Lo, and Lowball. Other players occasionally joined but found it challenging to endure the high buy-in of $10,000.
Ultimately, Moss emerged victorious, prompting Dandolos to admit defeat with the words, “Mr. Moss, I have to let you go.” This monumental competition served as the inspiration for the creation of the World Series of Poker (WSOP), a global gathering of elite poker players competing in various poker variants.
The Birth of the World Series of Poker
The WSOP, inaugurated in 1970, commenced with a modest six contestants. In its first year, the competition adopted a unique format where players voted for the best player. While each participant voted for themselves, Johnny Moss was widely regarded as the second-best player, earning him the inaugural championship and a pure silver cup.
Over the years, the WSOP evolved significantly, with thousands of participants engaging in elimination-style tournaments. Winners were awarded coveted gold bracelets alongside cash prizes.
Johnny Moss’s remarkable WSOP journey spanned over twenty-five competitions, resulting in an impressive eight gold bracelets.
Challenges Along the Way
Despite his numerous victories, Moss faced financial challenges due to his gambling habits. His most daunting setback occurred during a lengthy craps session in Las Vegas, where he lost substantial sums, even borrowing $500,000 from the casino. However, Moss’s resilience and hard work enabled him to repay this debt in just over five years.
Betting Beyond Poker
Moss’s penchant for gambling extended beyond poker tables to the golf course. He once fell victim to hustler Titanic Thompson, who wagered $3,000 that Moss couldn’t shoot a 46 on a nine-hole golf course. Unbeknownst to Moss, the cups were rigged to make putting nearly impossible. Instead of resentment, Moss admired the hustle, and he and Titanic later employed similar tricks to win over $100,000 from unsuspecting golfers and bowlers.
The Legacy of Johnny Moss
Johnny Moss passed away on December 16, 1995, at the age of eighty-eight. His funeral was attended by hundreds, including famous players like Doyle Brunson, Amarillo Slim, and Puggy Pearson, who considered Moss a friend and mentor throughout their poker careers.
In the world of poker, Johnny Moss’s legacy endures as a testament to skill, resilience, and the indomitable spirit of a true poker legend.