Johnny Moss

Childhood

Born on May 14, 1907, in Marshall, Texas, Johnny Moss grew up in Dallas, where he was introduced to gambling at a young age. He learned card tricks and cheating techniques from local hustlers but later used this knowledge to protect games from fraud. By his teenage years, he was hired by a saloon to oversee poker games, ensuring fairness while honing his strategic skills.

Career

Moss became a professional gambler in his late teens, traveling across the U.S. in search of high-stakes action. In the 1950s, he moved to Odessa, Texas, to capitalize on the oil boom and participate in some of the biggest poker games in the state.

The Legendary Heads-Up Match

One of the most famous stories in poker lore involves Moss and Nick "The Greek" Dandolos. In 1949, Benny Binion reportedly organized a marathon heads-up game between the two, lasting several months. Moss allegedly won between 2 million and 4 million.

While the exact details of this match have been debated, it is often cited as an inspiration for the WSOP.

World Series of Poker

Dominance Moss was a central figure in the early days of the WSOP:

1970: He won the inaugural WSOP Main Event by being voted "best all-around player" by his peers.

1971 & 1974: Won the Main Event in its tournament format. Nine WSOP bracelets, Including victories in Seven Card Stud, Ace-to-Five Draw, and No-Limit Hold’em.

Oldest WSOP bracelet winner: Set a record in 1988 at age 81, which still stands.

Personal life

Moss was married to Virgie, a West Texas native. He was known for his calm demeanor and sharp wit at the poker table. His strategy emphasized survival in early tournament stages before shifting to aggressive play as blinds increased.

Revenue

While exact lifetime earnings are unclear, Moss won substantial sums in high-stakes cash games and tournaments. His WSOP victories alone earned him over $200,000 (equivalent to millions today).

Interesting facts

• Moss authored "How to Win at Poker" (1950), though the publisher initially claimed "John Moss" was a pseudonym.
• Doyle Brunson included Moss in his "Mount Rushmore of Poker," alongside Puggy Pearson, Sailor Roberts, and Chip Reese.
• His autobiography, Champion of Champions, was written by Don Jenkins
  

Legacy

Moss helped shape modern poker, proving that skill and discipline could lead to long-term success. His influence persists in WSOP history, and his name remains synonymous with poker excellence.