John Tabatabai Makes It Big in Africa
John Tabatabai is one of the UK's biggest and brightest rising poker stars. The young man – he's not even 23 yet – might prefer playing online, but he's having one heck of a live action run. In September 2007, he finished second to Annette Obrestad at the inaugural WSOPE Main Event. Now, he's followed that up with a first-place finish at the 12th All Africa Poker Tournament.
An avid chess player who competed on the European and World Championships, Tabatabai took down the title in Pigg Peaks, Swaziland and became a South African millionaire. He earned 100,000 rand, which corresponds to $122,650 USD or 61,100 GBP), for his efforts. Finishing in third place was Raymond Rahme, who took the same slot at the 2008 WSOP Main Event.
Upon winning, the aggressive Tabatabai, who adheres to an 'any two will do' starting hand philosophy, advised young and aspiring players to have a “backstop.” He cautions against making poker “your sole income” and thinks that you can gain “insight” from every player “even players you consider weaker than yourself.”
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