Poker fever is set to sweep the Queen City as the Moneymaker Tour makes its highly anticipated return to Hard Rock Casino Cincinnati from September 9–22, 2025. With 25 tournaments on tap, a star-studded lineup of events, and a $500,000 guaranteed Main Event, poker enthusiasts from across the Midwest and beyond are preparing for two weeks of nonstop action.
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A Tour with History
The Moneymaker Tour has become a staple for poker fans who want a mix of high-stakes thrills and community-driven events. Its Cincinnati chapter already holds a special place in the tour’s legacy. Back in 2023, Joseph Bakun stole the spotlight by defeating none other than the tour’s namesake, Chris Moneymaker, at the final table. Bakun’s win, worth $200,000, cemented his status as one of the rising stars of the circuit.
This year, all eyes will be on whether Moneymaker himself can reclaim his crown or whether another fresh face will emerge from the Ohio River backdrop.
The Kickoff
The festival begins bright and early on September 9 with a $100 Kickoff Satellite, giving players a shot at the $300,000 guaranteed Kickoff Event. The Kickoff runs multiple flights between September 11–13, and with its modest buy-in and big prize pool, it is expected to draw a massive field.
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Variety of Events for Every Player
What makes the Moneymaker Tour unique is its balance of marquee tournaments and fun side events. Players looking for something different will find plenty on the Cincinnati schedule:
- $200 Tag Team Event – A chance to test teamwork at the felt.
- $300 Omaha Hi-Lo (Omaha8) – For those who like a split-pot challenge.
- $1,500 High Roller PLO – Scheduled for September 14, attracting the big guns.
- “Older Than Moneymaker” Event – A $400 buy-in exclusive to players older than the poker legend, set for September 15.
These events add flavor and inclusivity to the series, ensuring casual players and pros alike find their moment.
The Main Attraction: $500,000 Guaranteed Main Event
The centerpiece of the festival, the Moneymaker Main Event, begins with four opening flights between September 17–20. With a $1,500 buy-in and a hefty half-million-dollar guarantee, this event is expected to draw some of the most competitive fields outside of Las Vegas.
Survivors from the opening flights will return for Day 2 on September 21, and the drama will peak on September 22, when the final table crowns the next Cincinnati champion.
More Than Just the Main Event
Even as the Main Event narrows down to its climax, Hard Rock Cincinnati will keep the poker room buzzing. A $1,500 High Roller on September 21 and a $300 Six-Max PLO on September 22 will give grinders and specialists plenty to chase.
This structure ensures that there’s always action, whether you’re deep in the Main or looking for a fresh challenge.
Chris Moneymaker’s Presence
Of course, the Moneymaker Tour wouldn’t be the same without Chris Moneymaker, the 2003 WSOP champion who sparked a poker boom that still resonates today. His hands-on involvement in the tour is what sets it apart. Players don’t just come to compete; they come for a chance to sit across the table from a living legend.
For Cincinnati, that means added buzz. Will Moneymaker repeat history by reaching another final table here, or will he pass the torch to yet another breakout star? Fans can only wait and watch.
Cincinnati’s Growing Poker Scene
Hard Rock Casino Cincinnati has steadily built its reputation as a premier poker destination in the Midwest. Hosting the Moneymaker Tour not only highlights the city’s growing poker culture but also positions it as a must-visit stop for players across the U.S.
The blend of professional-level organization, big guarantees, and welcoming atmosphere makes Cincinnati a perfect match for the tour’s expansion strategy.
The Countdown Begins
As the opening day approaches, excitement is at a fever pitch. With buy-ins ranging from $100 satellites to $1,500 high rollers, the tour offers something for every bankroll. For poker players, this is more than a series of tournaments—it’s a celebration of competition, camaraderie, and the enduring legacy of Chris Moneymaker.
The stage is set, the guarantees are massive, and Cincinnati is ready to deal the cards.
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FAQs
Q1: When does the Moneymaker Tour stop in Cincinnati take place?
The series runs from September 9 to September 22, 2025, at Hard Rock Casino Cincinnati.
Q2: What is the buy-in and guarantee for the Main Event?
The Main Event has a $1,500 buy-in with a $500,000 guaranteed prize pool.
Q3: Are there affordable events for casual players?
Yes. Events like the $100 satellites, $200 Tag Team, and $300 Omaha8 offer budget-friendly options.
Q4: Who is the reigning champion of the Cincinnati stop?
In 2023, Joseph Bakun won the Cincinnati Main Event, taking home $200,000.
Q5: Will Chris Moneymaker be participating in the events?
Yes. Chris Moneymaker is expected to compete and will be a key figure throughout the festival.
Image and Content Courtesy: POKERORG
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