Mike Sexton

Mike Sexton (1947-2020) was an American professional poker player, commentator, and industry executive. Born on September 22nd, 1947, in Shelbyville, Indiana, Mike Sexton earned over $6,708,146 in live tournament earnings, with his most notable cash being $1,109,333. He has appeared on several live and cash tournaments including the Poker After Dark.

He was an entity in the poker community nicknamed the “Ambassador of Poker”. Mike Sexton was inducted into the Poker Hall of Fame in 2009. Sexton also cofounded Partypoker and he was a long-time commentator for the World Poker Tour. He was considered one of the most influential figures in poker and a beloved member of the poker community. Sexton has won several tournaments, including a World Series of Poker bracelet in 1989. 

Unfortunately, after a prolonged battle with prostate cancer, he passed away in September 2020, at the age of 72. His death was revealed by Linda Johnson, a fellow Poker Hall of Fame member.

Mike Sexton: Early Life

Mike Sexton, born on September 22, 1947, in Shelbyville, Indiana, had a diverse early life. After his parents divorced at age four. Mike pursued gymnastics and later earned a degree in public recreation from Ohio State University, having switched from business. He started playing poker in college, humorously claiming he majored in poker due to the time he spent on it.

Sexton joined the U.S. Army as a paratrooper in 1970 with the 82nd Airborne Division, though he did not see combat as the division had just returned from Vietnam. His background in gymnastics helped him learn and teach ballroom dancing in the Army, leading to a brief sales career after encouragement from a client.

Returning to poker, Sexton turned professional in 1977 and moved to Las Vegas in 1985. He achieved notable success, including winning a World Series of Poker bracelet in Seven-Card Stud/8 in 1989.

Mike Sexton: The Ambassador Of Poker

Mike Sexton was a beloved and influential figure in the poker world, known for his many contributions to the game. Born to be a promoter, he became a familiar voice on the World Poker Tour, co-commentating with Vince Van Patten from its debut in March 2003 until he retired in 2017. After stepping down, he took on the role of chairman at Partypoker, a platform he was instrumental in launching in 2001.

Sexton’s impact on the poker boom of the early 2000s was profound, helping to drive up tournament prize pools and popularize online poker. His diverse career spanned roles as a player, commentator, promoter, columnist, and author, making him a key figure in poker’s global rise. 

He earned the affectionate title “Ambassador of Poker” in 2006, was honored with a Lifetime Achievement Award in 2016. Mike was inducted into the World Poker Tour Honors Society in 2017. In a heartfelt tribute, the World Poker Tour renamed its Champions Cup the “Mike Sexton WPT Champions Cup” in 2020, celebrating his lasting legacy.

Mike Sexton: Poker Journey on Poker After Dark

Sexton debuted on January 27th, 2019, in PAD Season 10 Episode 6. He incurred a $2,000 loss after sitting down with Rob Yong, Jennifer Tilly, Phil Hellmuth, and others. They played a $100/200 +$200BBA No Limit Hold ’em game.

His most recent appearance was on January 29th, 2019, during PAD Season 10 Episode 8. Mike Sexton competed in another $100/200 +$200BBA No Limit Hold ’em game against Randall Emmett, Paul Pierce, Alan Keating, and others. He earned a significant $27,800.

Mike Sexton: Live Tournament Participation

Sexton recorded his first live cash in February 1981. He participated in a $ 1,000 Razz at the Amarillo Slim’s Superbowl Of Poker, Las Vegas. Sexton finished in 3rd place and took home $9,500.

In July 2012, he achieved his best live cash at the 43rd World Series of Poker WSOP 2012, Las Vegas. He took part in a WSOP  $1,000,000 The Big One for One Drop, where Sexton finished in 9th place and ended the night up $1,109,333.

His most recent live tournament participation was in December 2019. He competed in a United States $ 545 + 55 No Limit Hold’em at the The Wynn Winter Classic, Las Vegas. Sexton finished in 40th place and took home $1,990 in prize money.

Conclusion

Mike Sexton’s legacy in poker is truly remarkable, reflecting his deep passion and commitment to the game. Through his roles as a player, commentator, and promoter, he not only helped shape the poker world but also inspired countless fans and players. His influence continues to shine through the Champions Cup named in his honor, a heartfelt tribute to a man who made poker a better place for everyone.