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Antonio Esfandiari moved from Tehran, Iran
to the San Jose, California when he was 9 years old. He became a
professional magician at age 19. Once, he was invited to play poker with
his good friend at a casino and that was the begining of his poker career.
Antonio's first major accomplishment was wiining the tournament at the Commerce Casino priced at $1.4 million.
Mr. Esfandiari has one book and one DVD out so far. His book is titled
"World Poker Tour: In The Money". His DVD
includes instruction on how to prevent and spot cheating at house poker
games.
Antonio also teaches at a Poker Camp. His courses and schedule can be
found on The Poker Camp website.
Our Exclusive Interview with Antonio Esfandiari
Blacksburg Poker: How did a professional magician beceoma professional poker player?
Antonio Esfandiari: They didn't have much to do with each other. I once went to a casino with one of my friends, Scott Stewart, and
that was that.
B.P: What stakes did you play in the beginig and how did you move up?
Antonio Esfandiar: $2/$4 limit, then $3/$6, and it went up. [He only plays no limit nowadays and doesnt play limit anymore].
B.P: Where do you live? Where do you live gamse the most?
Antonio Esfandiar: Las Vegas, I dont play live games much anymore, but if I do, Bellagio.
B.P: You have a new book out. What has the book to offer that is unique? How has it been recieved by readers?
Antonio Esfandiar: Its fun, informative book on cash game no limit holdem unlike all other books that are on tournaments.
It's a different outlook on the game.
B.P: How would you explain your style of play?
Antonio Esfandiar: Loose Aggressive.
B.P: What has been your biggest poker accomplishment?
Antonio Esfandiar: World Poker Tour title.
B.P: What stakes do you currently play at?
Antonio Esfandiar: As high as $300/$600 NL.
B.P: Which player do you respect the most and rather not to play against him/her?
Antonio Esfandiar: No comments.
B.P: How often do you play online poker?
Antonio Esfandiar: 40 to 50 hours a month.
B.P: What do you think of the new legislation passed against gambling?
Antonio Esfandiar: It's retarted. They coudldn't pass it by itself so they attached it to a port security bill. They are
not even related to each other.
B.P: What are your goals for future?
Antonio Esfandiar: Make more money in poker and take it easy.
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