Bobby Baldwin

Bobby Baldwin aka The Owl is an iconic figure in American poker. Born on July 15, 1950, in Tulsa, Oklahoma, he has left an indelible mark on the gambling scene. Currently based in Las Vegas, Nevada, he serves as the esteemed President and CEO of MGM/Mirage Resorts.

With total live earnings reaching $2,362,878 and a best live cash of $1,408,000 as of writing, his achievements speak volumes. He clinched victory at the 1978 World Series of Poker Main Event and boasts three additional WSOP bracelets. Truly, “The Owl” stands as a luminary in the world of poker, revered for his exceptional skill and enduring success.

Bobby Baldwin: Early Life

Baldwin attended Oklahoma State University in 1970. By 1982, he began consulting for Golden Nugget casino and later became its president in 1984. His career saw him leading The Mirage in 1987 and then the Bellagio hotel and casino in 1998. He served as the Chief Financial Officer of Mirage Resorts under Steve Wynn from 1999-2000, and upon the merger with MGM Grand, he became CEO of the Mirage Resorts subsidiary of MGM Mirage in 2000. After MGM Mirage acquired Mandalay Resort Group in 2005, Baldwin took on the roles of CEO and President of Project City Center while continuing his duties as CEO of the Mirage Resorts subsidiary. He also oversees resorts acquired through the Mandalay Resort Group buyout and previous Wynn properties. 

Apart from his poker, he is recognized as a skilled billiards player and the subject of Mike Caro’s book “Bobby Baldwin’s Winning Poker Secrets.” He has contributed columns on poker and authored sections for Doyle Brunson’s “Super/System.” His own book, “Tales Out of Tulsa,” aimed at novice poker players, was published in 1985. Baldwin still occasionally participates in high-stakes poker games at the Bellagio alongside other top players.

Bobby Baldwin: World Series of Poker

He made his impressive debut on the poker scene on April 29th, 1977, in Las Vegas, United States, competing in the 8th World Series of Poker (WSOP) in the $10,000 No Limit Deuce to Seven Draw event. Emerging victorious, he clinched the 1st position and a substantial prize of $80,000. Just a day later, on April 30th, 1977, still in Las Vegas, United States, he showcased his skills once again in the 8th WSOP, this time in the $5,000 Seven-Card Stud event, securing 1st place and earning a prize of $44,000.

A year later, on May 17th, 1978, also in Las Vegas, United States, he took part in the 9th World Series of Poker (WSOP) in the prestigious $10,000 No Limit Hold’em World Championship. Demonstrating remarkable talent, he ultimately claimed 1st position and an impressive prize of $210,000.

Bobby Baldwin: Poker Career

On May 11th, 1979, again in Las Vegas, United States, Baldwin competed in the 10th World Series of Poker (WSOP) in the $10,000 No Limit Deuce to Seven Draw event. His exceptional skills led him to secure 1st place, earning a substantial prize of $90,000.

In November 1984, once more in Las Vegas, United States, he participated in the $10,000 No Limit Hold’em event during the 1984 Grand Prix of Poker. Demonstrating impressive performance, he finished in 2nd place, earning a notable prize of $128,000.

Fast forward to July 1st, 2012, still in Las Vegas, United States, Baldwin entered the highly prestigious $1,000,000 The Big One for One Drop event as part of the 43rd World Series of Poker (WSOP) in 2012. Showcasing remarkable skill, he finished in 7th place, earning an impressive prize of $1,408,000.

His latest appearance was on July 30th, 2021, in Pocola, United States, where he participated in the $300 + $50 No Limit Hold’em Championship Event during the 2021 Choctaw Pocola Summer Classic. Performing admirably, he secured the 5th position and earned a prize of $8,044.

Conclusion

Baldwin is undeniably a captivating figure whose life and successes have made a lasting impact on the worlds of professional poker and resort management. From his early days as a remarkable poker player to his distinguished career as an executive at MGM Resorts International, He has consistently shown a dedication to excellence and a relentless work ethic.

His accomplishments, both on and off the poker table, reflect his talent, determination, and ability to navigate the evolving entertainment and hospitality industries. Whether it’s his impressive poker victories, his influential contributions to Las Vegas resorts, or his philanthropic endeavors, he has established himself as a true icon.