While we may never get to doing a Notinhalloffame.com rank of those who should be in the Poker Hall of Fame, we have a lot of respect for the game and how much it has grown in popularity in the past two decades. As such, a brief synopsis of this year’s ten Finalists, which were announced today.
In the last three years two people were selected, and it is expected that this trend will continue this year. This year’s Finalists are:
Chris Bjorin: Considered one of the best European Poker players ever, and the most successful Swedish player, Chris Bjorin is a two time Gold Bracelet winner and is sixth all time on WSOP cash list.
Humberto Brenes: Currently third place all-time on WSOP cashes list, and is regarded in the game for his consistency. The Costa Rican born Brenes is credited with elevating Poker in Latin America.
Bruno Fitoussi: The French born Poker star has elevated the stature of the game in France and is credited with brining Texas Hold ‘Em to that country.
Ted Forrest: Six times a WSOP gold bracelet winner and is one of the most successful money winners in recent years.
Jen Harman: The first female to win multiple bracelets in open events and has appeared in 12 WSOP Final Events.
Bob Hooks: The oldest nominee at 85 Years Old, Bob Hooks played with the legends of Poker decades ago, and held his own with the best from generation to generation. He played competitively or six decades until he retired last year.
Mike Matusow: “The Mouth” is a four time bracelet winner and final tabled the WSOP Main Event twice.
Jack McClelland: A one time Semi-professional bowler, McClelland wound up directing the WSOP from 2002 to 2013.
Daniel Negreanu: At 40 years old, Negreanu is the youngest nominee on this year’s ballot and “Kid Poker” has won six gold bracelets, two WPT Titles, and is second all-time on the WPT money list and third all-time on the WSOP money list.
Huckleberry Seed: The tall Californian is a four time bracelet winner and one of the most recognizable figures in the game.
To qualify for the Poker Hall of Fame, the player has to meet the following criteria:
He or she must be at least 40 Years of Age
He or she must have played Poker against recognized high level of competition.
He or she must have played for high stakes.
He or she must have gained the respect of their peers.
He or she must stand the test of time.
Some of those are a little ambiguous wouldn’t you say?
The Poker Hall of Fame was first established in 1979 and was acquired by Caesar’s Entertainment along with the World Series of Poker. Although there is no physical Hall of Fame, the ceremony is heled in conjunction with the Final Table at the WSOP, which is held annually in November.
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