Literally countless of players are trying to be the next "big thing" in poker, but here is a short rundown on four of the more noteworthy "great pros" of the game. Although "nice" is associated with their names when you are facing them it’s "no more Mr. Nice guy" until they have removed you out of the game!
Daniel Negreanu
In 2004, his competition payouts amounted to in excess of four and a half million dollars and he captured two immensely respected awards in the WSOP Player of the Year and Cardplayer Magazine’s Competition Player of the Year. In February 2006 he was chosen Card Player’s Preferred Poker Player. He even still has the humility to speak to his admirers about how they might improve their own game.
Howard Lederer
Called "The Professor" and sibling of fellow poker professional Annie Duke. His accomplishments have lead to him making an instructional video called "Secrets of No Limit Hold’em" and co holding a tournament poker show for Fox TV. As of 2005, his complete life winnings exceed 2.7 million dollars.
Scotty Nguyen
Scott is one of the most active players in professional poker and from Two Thousand to 2004 he ranked in the money in excess of 100 tournaments. He’s notorious for saying "yeah baby" during poker games and also coined the phrase "that’s poker baby" when alluding to a exceptionally bad beat. As of 2006, his life time earnings are just about $6 million.
Chris Ferguson
Chris has earned 5 WSOP titles with two of his successes happening in 2003. Has the nickname "Jesus" as a result of his trademark long hair and beard, and is able to throw cards fast enough to cut through bananas and pickles. As of 2005 his total poker tourney winnings exceeded five million dollars.