Written by :
Thomas Somach
Published on :
LAS VEGAS — Professional poker player Mike “The Mouth” Matusow has reversed course and now says he will play in this year‘s World Series of Poker (WSOP), even if he has to wear a mask, Gambling 911 can reveal in a world exclusive report!
Matusow, 53, who in July caught and recovered from Covid despite being vaccinated, last month told Gambling 911: “I’m not playing if I have to wear a mask.”
But, after the WSOP announced this week that all participants in this year‘s tournament will be required to be vaccinated and wear masks, Matusow did a 180° and told Gambling 911 in an exclusive interview Saturday that he has changed his mind about attending.
Watch "The Mouthpiece" Episode - Mike Talks Media, Masks, WSOP Vaccinations, More... Classic Mouth
“Yes, I will be participating in this year’s World Series of Poker,” Matusow said.
“It’s going to be a Covid disaster,” he said. “But I’m not worried, I’ve had it, plus the vaccine.”
Many observers were skeptical when Matusow announced he would boycott the WSOP if required to wear a mask, because there was just too much money at stake.
As one of the top poker players in the world, and with millions of dollars up for grabs at this year’s WSOP, it seemed unfathomable to pull out over a simple mask mandate.
“The Mouth” has won four WSOP championship gold bracelets In his career, each for a different type of poker.
He is the only person in history who has done that.
The WSOP begins September 30 at the Rio All-Suite Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas, and runs through November 23.
By Tom Somach
Gambling 911 Chief Correspondent