The Poker Hall of Fame has a new member. Jason Koon was the only one inducted into the select group in 2026, after receiving 23 votes. However, with the change in the entity’s voting system this year, many expected more players to achieve this glory. One of the names that showed the greatest disappointment was the veteran Mike Matusow.
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Thus, the player, who has four WSOP bracelets, was left out once again. Since 2013, he has received 12 nominations and has always made it clear that he dreams of entering the Poker Hall of Fame. In this election, “The Mouth” received only 10 votes, finished in fifth place, and was far from the 22 votes needed to secure election.
Therefore, in a post on X (formerly Twitter), Mike Matusow expressed dissatisfaction with the voting by his peers. “So, they said they had to vote for 4 of the 8 candidates, but 32 votes were not counted because some Hall of Fame members thought only one deserved to be there?”, he questioned.
Additionally, the complaint arose because if the 33 living members voted for four players, the process would record 132 votes. However, the organization counted only 100 votes. “Honest question: who appointed them all-powerful to the point of making their own rules? I got screwed”, added Mike Matusow.
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Repercussions about Matusow’s absence
However, the veteran was not the only name left out. Scott Seiver, Isai Scheinberg, and Shaun Deeb also appeared among the main candidates in the voting. A user on X identified as Bobby complained that the Poker Hall of Fame does not value players who built great careers in other series.
However, another comment on Mike Matusow‘s post also gained attention. “Unfortunately, Mike, your chances have passed. Many are making the list, unless you win bracelets, you will never get in. It’s a shame because you contributed a lot to poker”, wrote the X user identified as Jersey Joe.
Finally, Mike Matusow remains the record holder for nominations to the select group. In addition, he produced a biographical documentary in which he revealed several controversies of his career. The veteran faced drug problems, survived a serious car accident, and lives with mobility difficulties. Moreover, he maintains a great friendship with Phil Hellmuth, the record holder for WSOP bracelets.
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