Poker Profiles: Michael Mizrachi

Like most professional Poker players, Michael Mizrachi's dream is in no way connected to playing cards. However, his calling was strong enough to go against. So Michael decided, after dropping out of Medical school, that he will become a successful Poker player.

Born on January 5, 1981 in Miami, Florida, Michael was introduced to Poker at age 13. At that time, his mind is focused that he will be a doctor someday soon. Unfortunately, the sparked interest in Poker burned even stronger each day. By the time he is enrolled in his dream school under a dream program, his calling in Poker was very strong that he got no other escape but to give in. Leaving Medical school to play Poker full time, surprisingly, did not hurt that much. This is probably because Michael started to love the game in the real sense of it. The lights, the popularity, and the money -- everything about Poker is alluring.

Since going professional, Michael's biggest achievement so far was finishing first place at the L.A. Poker Classic in 2005, pursing close to $2 million in prize money. He is, however, still in the lookout for an opportunity to take home a World Series of Poker bracelet, the dream of every Poker pro. With over 11 first place finishes and numerous final table appearances, Michael is sure not far from getting himself a bracelet.

Michael's asset in winning Poker games is his rock solid playing style. He is very consistent with every game, doing pretty much the same but still winning nevertheless. He is not as flashy as other players are, which makes him go home with the money most of the time. Still in his 20s, it is not quite surprising that other, more experienced players predict greater things for Michael. His perseverance, and not to mention, Poker skill would surely bring him farther in his chosen field.

Poker blood runs in Michael's family. Both his older brother Robert and twin brother Eric are in the same path. Unlike the twins, Robert has been far more successful since he started playing cards first. But soon enough, Eric and especially Michael would find a way to topple off every thing that Robert has achieved, considering how hard he is working his butts off to improve his Poker skill.

Aside from Poker, Michael is busy as a family man. His wife Aidilay and children Paul William and Julie Malka live with him in Hollywood, Florida. They used to travel with him through a used tour bus Michael bought from his prize money but he eventually sold it because of its depreciative value. To make up for lost times while he is on the road, Michael spends quality time with his family whenever he can.