The Legend Returns: Chris Moneymaker Successfully Defends His Main Event Title on His Own Tour

The King Is Back
 

There are few names in the poker world as memorable as Chris Moneymaker. The accountant-turned-amateur who famously ignited the poker boom in 2003 has become synonymous with both poker history and legend. Since his historic run, Moneymaker has landed endorsement deals with some of the industry’s biggest brands. But despite his status and influence, taking down another major trophy proved elusive for more than two decades.

The wait finally ended—with poetic timing—at an event bearing his own name. The Moneymaker Tour Main Event, held in May 2025 in Florida, drew 424 entries. Once again, it was Chris who navigated his way to the top and claimed the title on his home turf.

Flawless Title Defense
 

Just yesterday, Chris Moneymaker added another remarkable chapter to his story—this time at the Moneymaker Tour stop at MGM Grand Las Vegas. He dominated the Main Event, which featured a 1.700$ buy-in and drew an impressive 907 entries. The prizepool swelled to 1.372.590$, with Chris taking home the trophy and the first-place payout of 238.900$.

With this victory, the 49-year-old notched his third title on his self-titled series. Previously, he won the 300$ Omaha event at MGM National Harbor (for 5.195$) and captured the Palm Beach Main Event in May with a 1.100$ buy-in, banking 83.042$.

This latest result also pushes Moneymaker’s live tournament earnings to nearly 8.7 million dollars. It’s clear that the series bearing his name is far more than a marketing gimmick—it’s now a staple in the poker calendar, with the legend himself at the center of it all. Moneymaker put it simply on X: “We defended.”

Final Table Results:

Sources: X, CardPlayer