Michael Moncek

Michael “Texas Mike” Moncek is an American poker player from the Chicago area, known to livestream audiences through his appearances on Hustler Casino Live. His nickname comes from attending the University of Texas at Austin - not his hometown - and his familiar burnt-orange Longhorns cap reflects that university connection.

His interest in poker began as a child watching ESPN’s coverage with his father during the Moneymaker boom. He later played in Chicago-area cardrooms while attending graduate school. He traces his competitive streak to family life, recalling that games of Monopoly and Risk could become fiercely contested affairs.

Despite competing at high stakes, Moncek describes himself as a recreational player rather than a professional, enjoying the challenge of solving problems at the table instead of relying on extensive solver study. His approach to livestreams also prioritizes entertainment: he believes people taking time to watch poker deserve an exciting game, and deliberately embraces an unconventional, action-oriented style.