Kessler hit a $1.2 million jackpot playing the Buffalo Aristocrat slot
A poker pro decided to try his hand at a slot machine at the Thunder Valley Resort & Casino in Northern California, and it paid off big. Allen Kessler, a seasoned slot machine enthusiast, achieved what many dream of but few accomplish—a $1.2 million jackpot win on the Buffalo Aristocrat slot machine.
Omg this just fuckin' happened!
Covers my entire wsop debacle with $1m to spare! pic.twitter.com/igjvArln93
— Allen Kessler (@AllenKessler) July 30, 2024
This victory came after an intense 12-hour session, where Kessler placed $125 bets per spin, strategically buying bonuses that eventually led to his monumental win. However, before the jackpot, he was down by $12,500, a sum that would deter many.
Yet, it was his resilience and commitment to the game that saw him through to the life-altering payout. His experience, detailed in a video, serves as a testament to the highs and lows inherent in the world of gambling. The win, however, brought with it a new challenge—a decision that required careful consideration.
Kessler was presented with two options: receive the winnings as an annuity over 20 years or opt for a lump sum payment, albeit at a discounted rate. The annuity option represents stability and long-term security, providing a steady income stream that can offer peace of mind and financial planning opportunities. On the other hand, the lump sum payment, while immediately gratifying, comes with its own set of considerations, including tax implications and the potential for mismanagement.
Last August, Kessler ended a long dry spell by winning his first World Series of Poker Circuit (WSOPC) event since 2016. He took down a $400 Stud-8/Omaha-8 tournament at Graton Resort & Casino, earning $6,314. The Hendon Mob shows that he’s racked up about $4.4 million in live earnings and his biggest score, at the WSOP 14 years ago, was $276,485.
