John Bonetti is a successful poker player, who was born in June, 1928 in Broklyn, New York. One of the interesting things about him is that, unlike most of the poker players in the world, Bonetti started his poker career at the age of 55. However that doesn’t mean John Bonetti is a bad player - Bonetti is often referred to as one of the best. He had to retire from work due to some problems with the management, so he started playing on the verge of his retirement and his debut was in 1985. Although he lost then, Bonetti didn’t back down, having the support of his family and his persistence was rewarded at the World Series of Poker in 1987. He finished at the 23rd place and earned the prize of $10,000. After striking at that tournament he was nearly unstoppable. Bonetti started playing poker like a true professional but still, there was some trouble, because of his unfriendly behavior at the poker table. He is the only player ever penalized for swearing away from the game table, after a floorperson heard him muttering expletives about a bad beat while on a break.
Well, unfriendly not, though, he has 12 first place finishes and three WSOP golden bracelets. He has finished 1st in 1989 and 1990, later twice in 1993. Soon, however, Bonetti would have some bigger issues to worry about, like his health. 1993 was the year when the poker player found out that he had prostate and spine cancer. Although he got treatment, he occasionally had to use a wheelchair. Nevertheless that didn’t stop him from playing and in 1995 Bonetti got back in the game and immediately won his third golden bracelet in the 2-7 Draw. Between that tournament and the 1996 WSOP, Bonetti kept busy with winning or final tabling eight smaller events.
Later, in 1998 he had yet another successful participation and was a three times winner in 1999, also one in 2000 and 2002, and his last achievement was in 2003. With experience, he became popular for his efficient tactics and rather aggressive temper. Although his reputation is quite ‘colorful’, John Bonneti has always been liked by the audience and highly respected by his colleagues and friends.
He has won a total of three golden bracelets from the World Series of Poker and as of 2008 total live tournament winnings exceeded $4,100,000. But playing poker was never the only thing on his mind. He was also a loving father to four children and husband to his lovely wife Jean. With their support and respect, he was aiming to reach even further in his poker career, but unfortunately John Bonetti passed away at the age of 89, spending his last few years in Houston, Texas in peace and serenity.
