A week after the passing of poker icon Miami John Cernuto, the community gathered in Las Vegas to celebrate his legacy. A special tournament was held in his honor, drawing passionate mixed-game players who respected the legend’s contributions to the game.
A Fitting Tribute to a Poker Great
On Feb. 17, the first-ever Miami John Commemorative O/E event took place at Resorts World Las Vegas. The tournament was part of the Cardplayer Lifestyle Mixed Game Festival X, which ran from Presidents’ Day through Feb. 20.
Despite short notice, the $300 buy-in event attracted 36 players, forming a $9,000 prize pool. Missouri’s Gary Bolden took home the title and $3,395, with Arizona’s Michael Moon finishing second for $2,098.
Other players who cashed included:
- David Edgett ($1,427)
- Glenn Engelbert ($970)
- James Matz ($661)
- Bennett Koo ($449)
For a first-time event, the turnout was strong. Given Cernuto’s deep impact on mixed games, it wouldn’t be surprising if this tournament became a staple in future poker festivals.
Miami John’s Legacy in Mixed Games
Cernuto, who passed away on Feb. 10, wasn’t just another name in poker—he was a living blueprint for mixed-game excellence. His reputation stretched across decades, earning respect from both veterans and newcomers.
His influence was evident in last year’s Mixed Game Festival O/E event, where he took down a talented field, including a heads-up battle against Ari Engel. That victory highlighted his continued dominance, even against rising stars of the game.
This time, instead of competing, his presence was felt in spirit. Players who sat down to compete weren’t just playing for themselves; they were playing in honor of a true legend.
The Man Behind the Tournament Name
The original event had been scheduled long before Cernuto’s passing. However, Cardplayer Lifestyle founder Robbie Strazynski quickly pivoted, ensuring that the tournament bore Cernuto’s name as a way to celebrate his impact.
Strazynski first crossed paths with Cernuto in an online poker game during the pandemic, later meeting him in person at the fourth annual Mixed Game Festival in Las Vegas. It didn’t take long for Cernuto to leave his mark.
“He won the tournament,” Strazynski told PokerNews. “Then he came back the next time with his daughter and told me how much he appreciated what we were doing for mixed games.”
That personal touch was a defining trait of Cernuto. His support for growing the mixed-game scene was unwavering, making him more than just a competitor—he was a mentor, supporter, and ambassador for the game.
Results: Who Took Home the Honors?
Here’s a quick look at how the payouts broke down in this inaugural event:
| Place | Player | Prize Money (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| 1st | Gary Bolden | $3,395 |
| 2nd | Michael Moon | $2,098 |
| 3rd | David Edgett | $1,427 |
| 4th | Glenn Engelbert | $970 |
| 5th | James Matz | $661 |
| 6th | Bennett Koo | $449 |
These numbers may not reflect a massive high-roller payout, but for those in attendance, the tournament meant far more than money. It was about respecting Cernuto’s memory and keeping mixed-game poker alive.
Will This Become a Tradition?
It’s too early to say whether the Miami John Commemorative O/E event will return next year, but the enthusiasm from the poker community suggests it should.
Mixed-game poker doesn’t always get the same spotlight as No-Limit Hold’em, but Cernuto was a fierce advocate for its growth. This event could serve as a yearly reminder of his contributions.
Strazynski summed it up best: “He raised the prominence of what we’re doing here.” If this tournament continues, it could be another lasting part of Miami John’s poker legacy.
