The poker community is in mourning following the shocking death of Matthew Parry, a rising professional poker player known for his prowess in Pot-Limit Omaha (PLO) and his recent successes at the World Series of Poker (WSOP). He died at age 33.
Parry passed away unexpectedly on Saturday while participating in various poker events in Las Vegas. His death has left a void in the world of poker, where he was celebrated not only for his skill but also for his character.
Parry, who hailed from Fairfield, NY, a suburb of Rochester, burst onto the poker scene with his significant win at the 2023 WSOP Event #82: $3,000 Pot-Limit Omaha 6-Handed, securing his first WSOP gold bracelet and a career-high prize of $480,122. This victory marked the pinnacle of his professional career and fulfilled a lifelong dream.
Just two weeks ago, he added another major title to his résumé by winning the Wynn Summer Classic’s $2,200 PLO event, earning $106,645. This win was part of a summer series where he logged several cashes, according to Poker.org.
The news of Parry’s passing was first shared by his family via his personal Facebook page. The heartfelt statement read: “It’s with crushing sadness that we’re letting friends of Matt’s and our family know that Matt passed away on Saturday, June 15. As many of you are aware, he had 2 true passions – chess and poker. Happily, he was in Las Vegas attending the WSOP doing what he loved when he died.”
The statement continued, “Last year, he fulfilled his dream when he won his first bracelet. He is deeply and forever missed. At this time, arrangements are being made and we’ll use FB and email to communicate in the event you would like to join us in celebrating his life. Please keep our Matt in your prayers.”
Parry’s death, shrouded in mystery with no cause yet disclosed, has sent ripples of sorrow through the poker world. Tributes and condolences have poured in from friends and fellow players who remember him for his passion and warm personality.
“Very sad to hear about the unexpected passing of Matthew Parry, who was a rising star in the industry and last year won the 2023 @WSOP Event 82: $3,000 PLO 6-Handed for $480,122 and a gold bracelet,” wrote Chad Holloway on X, formerly Twitter.
“RIP to Matt Parry, best known as a poker player but was also a chess player and a really good guy,” John Fernandez commented on Holloway’s tweet.
His affinity for chess, where he was a Scholastic National Champion, reportedly mirrored his dedication to poker, which he began playing casually with friends and online before making a name for himself in live tournaments.
With lifetime earnings surpassing $1.9 million per the Hendon Mob, Parry’s achievements include five six-figure paydays, with over $1.2 million won in WSOP events alone. His most recent tournament results showcased his consistent performance and ability to navigate the competitive landscape of high-stakes poker.
He finished 11th in the 2024 WSOP Event #18: $1,500 Pot-Limit Omaha, earning $19,048, and continued to cash in other events, including a notable 25th place in the WSOP Event #31: $3,000 NLH 6-Handed for $18,603 and 81st in Event #34: $2,500 NLH Freezeout for $5,946.
Reflecting on his approach to tournament play, Parry once remarked to PokerNews, “One thing that I like about the tournament versus cash play is it feels like there’s less variance. You see a lot less re-raising and it allows you to navigate through a field like this a lot better.” His strategy and insights into the game earned him respect among peers and fans alike.
The poker community remembers Parry as a talented and driven player who embodied the spirit of the game. His journey from casual games to becoming a WSOP bracelet winner is a testament to his dedication and love for poker. Parry’s legacy will continue to inspire both aspiring and seasoned players to pursue their dreams in the world of poker. As he once advised, “If you have a dream of coming out to the World Series of Poker, you can do it and you should.”
Arrangements for his memorial are being finalized, and further details will be communicated by his family through social media.
Somuchpoker extends heartfelt condolences to his family and friends during this difficult time.
