Joe Awada
| Name | Joe Awada |
| Nationality | American |
| Socials | Hendonmob |
| Streams on | World Poker Tour · World Series of Poker |
| Type | Player |
Yehia Awada was born on March 12, 1959, in Beirut, Lebanon. Later, he moved to the United States, where he became known as Joe Awada. Living in Las Vegas, Nevada, he pursued a career in professional poker.
Over the years, he achieved significant success, accumulating over $1 million in live tournament earnings. His biggest accomplishment came in May 2004, when he secured his first bracelet at the 35th World Series of Poker (WSOP), earning him a cash prize of $221,000. In addition, he is the CEO of Gaming Entertainment and currently develops casino games.
Joe Awada: Early Life
Joe Awada’s journey began when his mother sent him to the United States shortly before the outbreak of the Lebanese Civil War. He moved in with his uncle, who worked for the Ringling Brothers Circus. There, Joe started selling peanuts and cotton candy. Inspired by the circus environment, he taught himself to juggle, practicing diligently for two years. His hard work paid off when, at the age of 16, he was signed by the American Continental Circus.
In 1977, Joe made it to Las Vegas, where he landed a job performing at Circus Circus. During his performances, he often visited the poker room, treating it as a fun distraction. However, his juggling career came to an abrupt end due to a car accident that left him unable to regain his former skills, despite extensive physical therapy. Recognizing his situation, the poker room manager offered Joe a job as a poker dealer, which he accepted.
This new role prompted Joe to take poker more seriously. He began observing the players and learning the game. Eventually, he became a full-time professional poker player. Joe then shifted his focus to entering smaller tournaments while also getting involved in business ventures. Now, he is the CEO of Gaming Entertainment Inc. and lives in Las Vegas, Nevada, with his wife and six children.
Joe Awada: Live Tournament Participation
Awada recorded his first live cash in April 2004, he finished 2nd in a $1,500 No-Limit Hold’em event at the 35th World Series of Poker (WSOP) in Las Vegas, earning $156,320.
Following this achievement, in May 2004, he won the $5,000 Seven Card Stud World Championship at the WSOP, taking home $221,000 for 1st place.
Moreover, in August 2004, Awada placed 5th in the $5,000 + 150 No Limit Hold’em Championship Final Day at the Legends of Poker in Los Angeles, earning $132,200.
Later that year, in October 2004, he secured victory in the $2,500 + 100 No Limit Hold’em Final Day at the Festa al Lago III Poker Tournament in Las Vegas, which earned him $145,280.
In June 2005, Awada competed in the $5,000 Seven Card Stud event at the 36th WSOP, finishing 5th and cashing $58,655.
Then, in June 2007, he participated in the $1,500 No Limit Hold’em – Six Handed event at the 38th WSOP, where he placed 8th and received $46,749.
In June 2023, Awada entered the $1,500 No Limit Hold’em Millionaire Maker at the 54th WSOP in Las Vegas, finishing in 718th place and cashing $3,730.
Conclusion
Joe Awada’s journey from a circus performer to a successful professional poker player highlights his resilience and adaptability in the face of adversity. With over $1 million in tournament earnings and a prestigious WSOP bracelet to his name, he has made a significant mark in the poker world. Today, as the CEO of Gaming Entertainment, he continues to influence the gaming industry while cherishing his family life in Las Vegas.
