Benny-Binion

Benny Binion

by Pocket52 Editorial ∙ 14 days ago ∙ 1 minute
Facebook
Twitter
Twitter

Benny Binion was born and brought up in Texas in Grayson County, the northern side of Dallas.

While traveling with his father, he learned to gamble as a young boy. As he traveled with his father, the young man learned to gamble.

After his criminal days were bygones, Binion took partnership in the Las Vegas Club casino. A year later when the casino was relocated, Binion faced licensing issues. He decides to quit the partnership to avoid the chaos.

Benny purchased a real estate that was earlier running under the name ‘The Las Vegas Club’. He reopened the club in the name of ‘Westerner Gambling House and Saloon’.

Benny Binion and the Birth of WSOP

Back in January 1949, Binion hosted a head-to-head poker tournament. Johnny Moss and Nick Dandalos a.k.a. “Nick the Greek” played heads-up. The tournament went on for five months.

After many years of hosting heads-up matches for high-stakes players, in 1970 an idea struck him. Binion designed a tournament and for that, he invited six high-rollers he knew to compete in the tournament. They would play for cash on the table, after which the winner was voted for. In 1971, a freeze-out format was introduced with a $10,000 buy-in. Please mark, that this is how the World Series of Poker (WSOP) was born.

He was inducted into the Poker Hall of Fame posthumously in 1990.

About the Author
iconPocket52 Editorial
We’re a team of poker enthusiasts who’ve spent years playing, learning, and loving the game. Here at Pocket52, we share what we know – from strategies and tips to the latest news in the poker world. Whether you’re new to poker or a long-time player, we’ve got content that’ll help you sharpen your skills and enjoy the game more. No fancy jargon, just real advice from people who genuinely love poker. Stay tuned for updates, tips, and stories as we dive deeper into the game together.
logoCall
Support
logoRNG
Certified
logoResponsible
Gaming
logoSafe & Secure
Payments
logoISO Certified
Company
© Nirdesa Networks Pvt. Ltd | All Rights Reserved