Amir Vahedi
Amir Vahedi is one of the most colorful and charismatic professional poker players in the history of the game. Originally from Iran, Vahedi moved to the United States to start a new life and soon after became a successful poker player. His story is an example of how successful adaptation and hard work can lead to significant achievements in the world of gambling.
Main Information
Basic Player Information:
- Nickname: Amir didn’t have a high-profile gaming nickname, but he was known for his charisma and the Cuban cigar always present with him at the table;
- Nationality: Iranian;
- Residence: Los Angeles, California, USA;
- Born: February 25, 1961;
- Age: 48 years old at the time of his death in 2010;
- Last Results: 7th place in the 2008 WPT World Championship.
Amir Vahedi Biography
Amir Vahedi was known in poker for his optimism, cheerfulness and the unfailing cigar that became his trademark. He was born on February 25, 1961 in Tehran, Iran, and grew up during turbulent times of political instability. Vahedi emigrated from Iran to the United States during the Islamic Revolution to escape the effects of the conflict and find new opportunities.
Once in the United States, he did not immediately become a professional player. First, Amir served in the US Army, which was an important milestone in his life. After that, he tried his hand at business, where he showed entrepreneurial talent. However, his real passion was poker. Having excelled in the card game, he gained recognition as one of the most charming and friendly players on the scene.
Amir not only impressed at the gaming tables, but also stood out outside of them. His sincerity, openness and love of life helped him make lasting friendships and inspire others. He was also known for his generosity, actively participating in charity events and helping other players learn the nuances of the game.
Sadly, Vahedi passed away on January 8, 2010 at the age of 48 due to complications related to diabetes. His legacy continues to inspire new players, and his contributions to the poker world remain an example of how charisma and talent can make a man a true legend.
Poker Career
Amir Vahedi started his poker career in December 1996. He participated in the Holiday Bonus Tournament in Los Angeles, where he played $100 No Limit Hold’em. His debut was successful: he finished in 3rd place and earned $1800, which was a great start to his poker career.
However, the real breakthrough came on May 6, 2003, when Vahedi won his first major tournament at the World Series of Poker. He finished in 1st place in the $1500 No-Limit Hold’em event for $270,000. This event was a milestone in his career and brought him to the attention of not only other players but also spectators.
A little later, on May 19 of the same year, Amir took part in the $10,000 World Championship, where he again performed well, finishing in 6th place for $250,000. Vahedi continued to perform well in tournaments and his successes became more visible.
In February 2005, he won the Limit Hold’em event at the Poker Classic in Los Angeles for $446,292. This success was further proof of his poker prowess.
Vahedi attracted no less attention with his victory in the $10,000 UPC Final No Limit Hold’em event at the Ultimate Poker Challenge in Las Vegas in November 2005, where he earned $181,390. His strategy and approach to the game continued to produce results, and it confirmed his status as one of the strongest players of the time.
Vahedi continued to show stability in 2008, finishing 7th in the $25,000 World Poker Tour event in Las Vegas, which earned him another $237,435.
Unique Style of Play
Amir Vahedi was known for his unique style of play, which often seemed unpredictable to his opponents. He used a strategy based on a willingness to risk relatively small amounts of money for potentially large winnings. This made his game interesting and exciting for players and spectators alike. His style of play, combined with his charisma, left a vivid impression on all who knew him.
Vahedi has not only achieved great results, but has become a true legend in the poker world, inspiring many players to follow his example.
Live Poker Achievements
Over the course of his career, Amir has managed to distinguish himself with an impressive stats of live tournament wins:
- WSOP bracelet: Winning the 2003 World Series of Poker (WSOP) $1,500 No-Limit Hold’em event. The prize was $270,000;
- Number of WSOP cashes: 9 times, including 4 final table appearances;
- WPT finalist: 7th place at the 2008 Five-Star World Poker Classic, winning $237435;
- Best WPT result: Winning a Limit Hold’em event (L.A. Poker Classic 2005) for which he received $446292.
Online Poker Achievements
The online accomplishments of poker player Amir Vahedi are less well known than his successes in live tournaments. The main focus of his career has been on live events, where he has had some outstanding results, including winning WSOP tournaments and being named Player of the Year in no-limit Texas Hold’em.
Top Five Career Cashes Prizes
You can see Amir’s largest earnings in the table below.
| Place | Tournament | Winning ($) | Year |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Los Angeles Poker Classic $1,500 No-Limit Hold’em | 446292 | 2005 |
| 2 | WSOP $1,500 No-Limit Hold’em | 270000 | 2003 |
| 6 | WSOP Main Event | 250000 | 2003 |
| 7 | WPT Five-Star World Poker Classic | 237435 | 2008 |
| 1 | Ultimate Poker Challenge | 181390 | 2005 |
Amir Vahedi Socials
Amir Vahedi sadly passed away in 2010, long before social was popularized among poker pros. However, his contributions are remembered through peer mentions and publications, such as Twitter mentions from famous players such as Doyle Brunson and Daniel Negreanu
FAQ
Is Amir Vahedi good at poker?
Yes, Amir Vahedi was a renowned poker pro whose play influenced many current poker superstars such as Brunson and Negreanu.
How old is Amir Vahedi?
Amir Vahedi was born on February 25, 1961 and passed away on January 8, 2010. He was 48 years old at the time of his death.
Does Amir Vahedi still play poker?
Sadly, Amir Vahedi passed away in 2010.
What is Amir Vahedi Nickname?
Amir Vahedi was known by his real name, but he was often referred to as “the smiling gentleman” for his friendliness and charismatic table talk style.
What is Amir Vahedi net worth?
At the time of his death, Amir Vahedi had cumulative net worth of over $3000000 in tournament winnings, but the exact details of his fortune are unknown.