WSOP History — From Benny Binion to the Rio
In January 1970, Benny Binion invited the best poker players in the world to his Horseshoe Casino in downtown Las Vegas. There were seven of them. They played several different games, voted on who was best, and declared Johnny Moss the champion. The World Series of Poker had begun.
1970–1979: The Founding Years
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1980–1989: The Ungar Era
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1990–2002: The Professional Era
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2003–2006: The Poker Boom
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2007–Present: The Modern Era
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Frequently Asked Questions
When did the WSOP start?
The World Series of Poker began in 1970 at Binion's Horseshoe Casino in Las Vegas, founded by Benny Binion.
Who has won the most WSOP bracelets?
Phil Hellmuth holds the all-time record with 17 WSOP bracelets. Phil Ivey and Doyle Brunson are tied for second with 10 each.
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