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Farzad Bonyadi, often referred to by his peers as “Freddy,” is a titan of the poker world and one of the most decorated Iranian-American professionals in the game’s history. Moving from Iran to the United States in 1983, Bonyadi transitioned from casino management to becoming a world-class competitor. He is a member of an elite group of players with four World Series of Poker (WSOP) bracelets, showcasing a rare mastery of both Limit Hold’em and specialized Lowball variants. In 2026, he remains a respected veteran on the high-stakes circuit, continuing to post deep runs in major championship events in Las Vegas.
Career Earnings & Biggest Results
As of March 2026, Farzad Bonyadi has amassed over $4,751,780 in total live tournament earnings (according to The Hendon Mob). His career is highlighted by four WSOP Gold Bracelets, with his most recent coming in 2021 in the prestigious $10,000 No-Limit 2-7 Lowball Championship. While his bracelets cement his legacy, his largest single payday came in 2011 when he finished runner-up in the WPT World Championship for $1,061,900. In the 2025 and 2026 seasons, Bonyadi has shown no signs of slowing down, recently securing a 55th-place finish in the 2026 Wynn Millions. His decades of high-stakes success contribute to an estimated net worth of approximately $6 million.
Major Tournament Results:
| Year | Event | Prize |
|---|---|---|
| 2021 | WSOP $10,000 No-Limit 2-7 Lowball Championship (1st – Bracelet) | $297,051 |
| 2011 | WPT World Championship $25,000 NLHE (2nd) | $1,061,900 |
| 2005 | WSOP $2,500 No-Limit Hold’em (1st – Bracelet) | $594,960 |
| 2025 | WSOP $10,000 Main Event World Championship (1021st) | $17,500 |
Biography & A Historic Family Legacy
Farzad Bonyadi’s journey in poker began with home games in Tehran, but his professional legacy was forged in the card rooms of Southern California . After working as a host at the Commerce Casino, he proved his skill by winning his first bracelet in 1998. However, Bonyadi’s name is etched in history for a unique reason: in 2018, his mother, Farhintaj Bonyadi, won the WSOP $1,000 Super Seniors event. This made them the first mother-son duo in history to both own WSOP gold bracelets. In 2026, Farzad continues to represent the Aliso Viejo poker community, carrying a reputation for incredible poise and technical depth in the world’s most difficult mixed games.
Play Style & Strategy
Bonyadi is widely regarded as a “Lowball Specialist” and a master of Limit structures. His strategy is characterized by a “quiet intensity”-, disciplined, patient approach that excels in games where reading an opponent’s range is more vital than raw aggression. His 2021 victory in the 2-7 Championship demonstrated his elite ability to navigate the complex “triple draw” and “single draw” mechanics that often baffle younger NLHE specialists. In 2026, he remains a “solver-resistant” veteran, relying on decades of live-read experience and foundational mechanics that have allowed him to win bracelets across three different decades.
Social Media & Online Presence
Follow Farzad Bonyadi as he continues to add to his legendary trophy case during the 2026 circuit:
Video Highlights:
Derick Elomina discovered poker at 14, playing home games with his high school friends. What began as a pastime quickly grew into a passion that shaped his career. By 21, he entered the poker industry as a field reporter — just old enough to step foot inside the casino. Starting as a hand reporter, he steadily honed his craft, blending sharp observation with growing writing skills. Known for his dedication, he constantly roams the floor to capture the action, conduct interviews, and deliver live updates. With a strong commitment to the game and a passion for telling poker’s stories, Derick continues to build his path in the industry.
