Updated: 2025.12.11

Frank Cucchiara, playfully referred to as “NextGen Frankie,” is an American professional poker player known for his strong transition from the online world to the global live circuit and as a founding member of the influential NextGen Poker community.

According to The Hendon Mob, Frank Cucchiara has accumulated $302,948 in total live earnings, recently surpassing the $100,000 milestone. His best live cash is $50,900, which he earned at the 54th World Series of Poker (WSOP) Main Event in 2023.

Cucchiara has also made a handful of five-figure wins, including $19,800 at a WPT Prime Championship event. His international career includes a 10th-place finish at the APT High Roller 8 Max Event in APT Taipei, earning NTD 424,000 (~$13,499). Most recently, in November 2025, he finished 3rd in the Teams Championship at the APT Championship (APTC) for NT$175,500 (~$5,606).

Biography & Poker Background

Frank Cucchiara hails from Kansas City, Missouri, United States. At just 23 years of age, he represents a new generation of players who built their following and skills in the online and content creation space. He is a founding member of the NextGen Poker YouTube community, which provides educational content and boasts over 200,000 subscribers. In 2023, he was signed as a brand ambassador for PokerStars US through the NextGen Poker brand.

Play Style & Strategy

Cucchiara’s strategy is informed by his background in online poker, making him an analytically strong competitor. His results show success across both domestic American tournaments (WSOP, WPT) and international high-stakes circuits in Asia and Europe. He demonstrates a willingness to take on aggressive international competition, showcasing a disciplined and adaptable style that utilizes deep-tank thinking in critical tournament moments.