Jonathan Tamayo

Jonathan Tamayo is an American professional poker player from Humble, Texas. With over $12 million in live tournament earnings, he has established himself as a prominent figure in the poker community. His most significant achievement came in July 2024 when he won the historic 55th World Series of Poker (WSOP) Main Event, securing a remarkable prize of $10 million.

He has also appeared on Champions Poker Live. Jonathan holds a degree in hotel management from Cornell University, reflecting his strong academic background. Outside of poker, Jonathan enjoys golfing, which provides him a balance to his competitive spirit.

Jonathan Tamayo: Cheating Allegations

By 2023, Jonathan had established a strong presence on the live tournament circuit, culminating in a significant victory at the 2024 WSOP Main Event, where he won the $10 million top prize.

However, his win sparked controversy when allegations of cheating and collusion arose. Observers noted that Tamayo left the final table several times to consult with friends, including poker pros Dominik Nitsche and Joe McKeehen, leading to suspicions of receiving outside strategic assistance.

In response to the uproar, WSOP officials announced an investigation to review footage and data from the final table. They reaffirmed their commitment to upholding the tournament’s integrity. As the poker community awaits the investigation’s outcome, discussions about regulations and player conduct are intensifying, highlighting the need for clearer guidelines to prevent similar issues in the future.

Jonathan Tamayo: Live Tournament Participation

Tamayo began his poker career in October 2006 at the October Poker Weekend in Verona, where he entered a $500 No Limit Hold’em event. He finished in 5th place and cashed $5,008.

Following this initial success, in July 2009, he participated in the $10,000 World Championship No Limit Hold’em at the 40th World Series of Poker in Las Vegas. There, he placed 21st and earned $352,832.

In February 2013, Tamayo achieved a significant milestone by winning the $1,675 No Limit Hold’em Main Event at the WSOP Circuit in West Palm Beach. As a result, he secured 1st place, earning $206,020 and a WSOP ring.

Later, in May 2021, he entered a $1,100 No Limit Hold’em tournament at The Wynn Summer Classic in Las Vegas. In this event, Tamayo finished in 1st place, winning $237,935.

Moreover, in April 2024, he competed in the $3,000 + $300 No Limit Hold’em Main Event at the PokerGO Tour Texas Poker Open in Houston. He finished in 3rd place and cashed $180,000.

In addition, in July 2024, Tamayo won the $10,000 No Limit Hold’em Main Event at the 55th World Series of Poker in Las Vegas. Consequently, he achieved 1st place, earning $10,000,000 and a WSOP bracelet.

During his most recent live participation, in August 2024, he played in the $1,500 No Limit Hold’em Main Event (Event #25) at the Champions Club Summer Poker Open in Houston. He placed 14th and cashed $13,450.

Tamayo’s 4 WSOP Circuit Rings Achievement in Live Tournaments

• May 2012 – $355 No Limit Hold’em, WSOPC New Orleans. (1st place, won $28,168)
• February 2013 – $1,675 No Limit Hold’em, WSOPC West Palm Beach. (1st place, won $206,020)
• October 2017 – $365 No Limit Hold’em, WSOPC Hammond. (1st place, won $101,404)
• March 2018 – $580 Pot Limit Omaha, WSOPC Los Angeles. (1st place, won $10,120)

Jonathan Tamayo: Poker Journey on Champions Poker Live

Jonathan debuted in CPL Episode 214 on September 18th, 2024. He participated in a $25/50 +$50BBA ($100) No Limit Holdem game with Collin, Vegas Viet, Zefish, and others. He ended the night up $25.

Conclusion

Jonathan Tamayo’s poker career has seen remarkable successes, including over $12 million in earnings and a win at the 2024 WSOP Main Event. However, cheating allegations have sparked controversy, leading to an ongoing investigation. As the poker community navigates these challenges, Tamayo’s story underscores the importance of integrity and regulation in the sport.