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Who is the GOAT of Poker? The Debate Rages On
NewsSeptember 9, 2025·1 min read

Who is the GOAT of Poker? The Debate Rages On


The poker world is abuzz with debates over who the greatest player of all time is. The conversation was sparked by a tweet from Poker.org, which highlighted Chip Reese's achievements. Reese was considered the greatest poker player of his era, and his legacy continues to inspire discussions.

After Reese's death, the title of the greatest of all time (GOAT) was passed to Phil Ivey. Ivey's dominance across various poker formats—online, tournaments, cash games, and mixed games—has solidified his status as a top contender. However, the debate remains open, with many players and fans weighing in on who deserves the title today.

Jesse Lonis, currently holding the top spot in the GPI rankings, has also been mentioned as a potential GOAT. Lonis has dominated tournaments and is known for his versatility across different game types. Patrick Leonard, a prominent figure in the poker community, highlighted Jason Koon and Ben Tollerene as top players, noting their exceptional skills in various poker formats. The debate is far from settled, with fans and experts continuing to discuss and vote for their favorite players.

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Argus Riven

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Argus Riven

I've spent years at the tables — cash and tournaments — and just as long shaping poker copy behind the scenes: room reviews, bonus fine print, tournament notes. At PokerInsider I write the way I wish more sites would: clear structure, honest trade-offs, no hype. Whether you're new or already grinding, I care about what the offer actually costs you — rake, variance, and the fine print — and I treat responsible play as part of the job, not a footnote.

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