Welcome to our exclusive interview with Mickael Perez (Instagram, Youtube), an extraordinary poker player with a remarkable journey in the world of cards. Hailing from the beautiful city of Paris, France, Mickael now resides in the vibrant city of Los Angeles, where he is pursuing his poker dreams!
Get ready to be inspired by Mickael’s dedication and passion for the game as he shares his insights, strategies, and experiences as a professional poker player. Gain a glimpse into the mind of a player who has embraced the competitive nature of the game and emerged stronger, both as a player and as an individual.
How did you get started playing poker?
I started getting interested in poker when I was around 15 years old. I played my first game with my father, who taught me the game’s rules. However, he never really agreed to let me bet real money. It was only when I turned 24 that I decided to dive into it and started to play poker seriously.
What initially attracted you to the game of poker?
What initially attracted me to poker was the unique blend of skill and luck it involved. The fact that a beginner could defeat a professional fascinated me. I was captivated by the complexity of strategies and the mental decisions it entails. I dedicated a lot of time to studying the game, learning different variations, and understanding the mathematics and psychology behind poker. Once I had a solid foundation, I felt the desire to test my skills in real games and see how I fared against other players.
What’s the biggest win in your poker career (Live and online)?
My biggest online win was $700 in an online tournament where I finished second. I was eliminated with a pair of Ace of hearts and Ace of clubs against a pair of Jacks of spades and Jacks of hearts. Unfortunately, the flop favored the spades, with a beautiful flush appearing, and the river delivered another lovely spade. In live games, my biggest win was $28,000 at the Commerce Casino in Los Angeles, where I finished first in the California State Championship tournament. It was a magnificent experience!
How do you handle the mental and emotional aspects of playing live poker, particularly during challenging moments or bad beats?
I engage in a lot of sports, whether it’s weightlifting or combat sports. I am passionate about competition above all else, and my goal is to push myself to new limits. I am not afraid of losing; on the contrary, I see it as a learning experience to become better. I also practice meditation a lot.
What are some of the key differences you’ve noticed between playing online poker and playing live in a casino setting?
Online poker games are often based on algorithms, and it’s simply a matter of following the mathematics, especially when it comes to strong hands. However, since we can’t see the other players, there’s no possibility of sensing a bluff. On the other hand, in live games, the action is present, and each player is different, reacting differently under pressure. I much prefer playing live in different casinos than online.
Can you share any memorable or interesting encounters you’ve had with fellow players at the poker table?
One of the most memorable and touching experiences I had at a poker table was when the player seated to my right, in seat 9, hit a royal flush against a full house in a massive $15,000 pot. It was one of the biggest cash games of my career. That man literally broke down in tears because in his 8 years of playing, he had never hit a royal flush. It was an incredibly emotional moment, and the whole table was moved by it.
How do you manage your work, personal life, and poker?
As the CEO of my own company, I’m fortunate to have a lot of free time to dedicate to my other passions, such as art and sports. I’ve managed to find a perfect balance by combining work with pleasure. I always keep in mind that playing poker is primarily for enjoyment.
Can you talk about the importance of patience and discipline in live poker, and how these qualities have contributed to your success?
Being naturally restless and having been diagnosed with hyperactivity when I was younger, poker has taught me how to control and channel my energy. I’ve developed patience that is crucial for success in live poker. It’s important to understand that poker is a game of chance based on various combinations. Patience is the key to success, whether playing live or online.
How do you handle the pressure of making crucial decisions with significant amounts of money on the line?
I choose to play only games where I can comfortably manage my bankroll. I never play with the sole intention of making money but rather to improve my skills with each game. Before each session, I mentally prepare myself by reminding myself that I’m investing this money solely for my enjoyment and that I’m prepared to lose it without any regrets.
What are some of the most valuable lessons you’ve learned from playing live poker?
The most important lessons I’ve learned from poker are never to underestimate your opponents. As the saying goes, “Don’t judge a book by its cover.” Another crucial lesson is not to be afraid of making big bets to win big, as Patrick Antonius famously said.
How do you stay motivated and continuously improve your game in a competitive live poker environment?
I enjoy meeting new people, and my ultimate goal is to become a professional player and win a World Series of Poker (WSOP) bracelet. I have no limits when it comes to achieving my dreams! I firmly believe that you’ll see me at the final table soon. That’s my motivation: to become the best poker player and make my country proud by representing it.
What are your goals and aspirations as a live poker player, and how do you plan to continue evolving and achieving success in the game?
For the past year, poker has been my life—eating, breathing, and living it. I love this game, which I consider a sport, and I honestly believe I’ll be playing poker for the rest of my life. I think the ultimate achievement in a poker career is to have a hand that represents you, much like Doyle and his famous 10/2. Rest in peace, Doyle.
Mickael Perez’s journey in the world of poker is a testament to the power of passion, perseverance, and continuous growth. From his humble beginnings as a poker enthusiast to becoming a serious player, Mickael Perez has embraced the challenges and triumphs that come with the game. His dedication to studying the strategies, honing his skills, and maintaining a balanced mindset has paved the way for remarkable wins and memorable encounters at the poker table. With his unwavering determination and a hunger for success, there’s no doubt that Mickael Perez will continue to make waves in the poker scene and inspire aspiring players along the way.
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