Eugenio Castaneda is accused of being the aggressor in the melee
Charges have been filed following a physical altercation involving poker pro Maurice Hawkins at a private cash game in Florida. The incident, which was captured on video and widely shared online, stemmed from a heated argument that escalated into violence at the table.
The guy who attacked me , while sitting in my chair. Now has a warrant out for his arrest and will be tried for Assault. Actions have consequences. Now put some music to that .
— EatingOnAllStages (@mauricehawkins) December 10, 2025
The man accused of attacking Hawkins, Eugenio Castaneda, allegedly walked around the table during the dispute and struck Hawkins multiple times. The confrontation reportedly began over a disagreement related to nationality, before turning physical in front of other players.
Castaneda later shared his version of events, saying Hawkins challenged him verbally and asked if he wanted to fight. After the punches were thrown, both men briefly left the scene and then returned. Castaneda admitted he retrieved a weapon from his car, claiming he feared Hawkins might do the same, though no further trouble occurred that night.
What started as a poker-room scuffle has now moved into the legal system. Hawkins confirmed on social media that he has pressed charges, stating that consequences would follow. A source familiar with the situation said an arrest warrant was issued on Dec. 10, though Castaneda has not yet turned himself in or hired a lawyer.
Hawkins has since retained new legal representation and made it clear he plans to pursue the matter seriously. He also returned his focus to poker, continuing his run at a WSOP Circuit event in North Carolina.
The episode adds an unusual chapter to Hawkins’ career, as he remains the all-time leader in WSOP Circuit rings and is again in contention for another title.
