Mike Sexton Makes History with First WPT Win

Mike Sexton wins his first WPT title after outlasting 657 entrants in the Montreal main event. (Image: WPT/Twitter)

WPT announcer Mike Sexton has finally stepped out from behind his commentary booth to win his first tour title.

Despite being involved with the WPT since its inception in 2002, Sexton hasn’t managed to convert his commentary skills into a winner’s trophy.

In fact, although he’d notched up almost $6 million in tournament earnings as well as WSOP bracelet prior to the WPT Montreal main event, Sexton had never etched his name into the WPT’s Hall of Fame.

But, all that changed on November 17 when he beat Benny Chen heads-up to claim his first WPT title and $317,896. After weaving his way through the 648-entrant field in the $2,585 + $258 main event, Sexton entered the final table with the chip lead.

When Experience Meets Luck

Describing his route to the finale as “lucky,” Sexton then went on to thank his Twitter followers for their support regardless of the end result. Fortunately, the well wishes he received didn’t go to waste as he battled back from rough ride heads-up to out flop Chen after 157 hands.

Having regained the chip lead in the match, Sexton made a quick call with pocket queens after a big move from Chen. With Chen needing some help with Kc Jd, Sexton could only watch as the board rolled out: Qd 9c 4s Ac.

With only a gut shot straight left to fade, Sexton sat calmly in his chair before the 2d on the river allowed him to raise a fist in victory. As the crowd cheered and WPT staff from all sides moved to congratulate Sexton, he took a moment to stand in the spotlight with his WPT Champions Cup.

On top of his silver trophy and six-figure cash prize, Sexton also picked up a Playground Poker Club Championship Belt, a Hublot King Power watch and a pair of gold Monster 24K headphones.

He’ll also have a chance to win another WPT title in April 2017, thanks to a free seat in the $15,000 season-ending Tournament of Champions.

Poker Community Rejoices

Unsurprisingly, after news of Sexton’s win filtered through the poker community, players, industry insiders and executives all offered their congratulations.

Marvin Rettenmaier – “Big Congrats to MikeSexton_WPT for taking down WPT Montreal!!!”

Mike Matusow – “Mike Sexton you’re my hero congrats buddy!! A Trump and Sexton win in 1 week # winning.”

Lynn Gilmartin – “HE DID IT!!!! MikeSexton_WPT the #WPTMontreal CHAMP!!!!!”

Matt Savage – “The poker world celebrates as Mike Sexton wins his first WPT title after years as commentator, ambassador, and visionary. #LoveYouMike.”

The main highlights of the tournament will be shown on TV later this year which should certainly make for interesting viewing as the WPT team will be analyzing the play of their colleague.

Related posts:

Comedian Kevin Hart Plays Some Serious Poker in Monte Carlo Stars to Begin Commentating on Stars in WSOP’s Biggest Ever Broadcast WSOP Halfway Point Report: Records Fall as 24,000+ Players Ante-Up Phil Ivey Leads An All-Star Cast in WSOP Hall of Fame Finale