Steven Jones Poker Player | Full Profile, Rankings & Latest News
For those following the world of professional poker or reality TV, the name Steven Jones might ring a bell. Known as the runner-up in the 2023 World Series of Poker (WSOP) Main Event, Steven also shocked audiences when he appeared as Player 183 in Squid Game: The Challenge on Netflix.
With a unique double identity as both a high-stakes poker player and a luxury real estate broker, Steven’s journey is as surprising as it is fascinating.
In this profile, we dive into the career, achievements, lifestyle, and the latest developments surrounding this rising name in global entertainment and poker.
Who is Steven Jones, the Poker Player from Arizona?
Image – Source
Steven Jones Jr. is a 37-year-old American poker player and real estate broker based in Phoenix, Arizona. While poker has brought him fame and millions, it isn’t his full-time job. He owns a successful real estate company named JR Jones Realty, specialising in the luxury property market of Arizona.
Steven grew up with a passion for competition, and though he didn’t begin his poker career until 2016, he quickly made his mark. His appearance in global tournaments was always notable, but it wasn’t until 2023 that he captured widespread attention.
Away from the poker table, Steven is deeply connected to family, enjoys travelling, and is a dog lover. His lifestyle is a mix of strategic high-stakes games and peaceful downtime with his dogs, Onyx, Poochie, and Itty Bitty. He frequently travels to cities like Barcelona, Munich, Dublin, London, and Greece, but Las Vegas remains his poker playground.
What is Steven Jones’ Background and Education?
Steven’s roots trace back to Birmingham Seaholm High School, after which he enrolled at Arizona State University. In 2013, he earned a Bachelor’s degree in Business Management, a foundation that later helped him launch his real estate business.
His academic background reflects a strategic mindset, something that has proven advantageous in both real estate and poker. The logical thinking, risk management, and decision-making skills gained during his education clearly translated to his success in poker tournaments.
After graduating, he initially focused on building his real estate career. In 2015, he founded JR Jones Realty, a company specialising in high-end properties across Arizona.
Despite being relatively young, Steven quickly established himself in the local property scene, known for his understanding of Phoenix’s luxury market.
When Did Steven Jones Start His Poker Career?
Steven Jones began his poker journey in 2016, entering the live poker circuit with notable determination. His first significant event was the Colossus II $565 No-Limit Hold’em (Event #2) at the WSOP, which introduced him to the competitive world of live poker tournaments.
From the start, Steven treated poker as more than just a hobby. His natural analytical skills and strategic mindset allowed him to hold his own in large fields of skilled players. Within just two years, he had already made an impact at WSOP events, cashing in multiple tournaments.
Early Poker Highlights
- 2016: First WSOP appearance and first money finish.
- 2018: Reached his first final table at the World Amateur Championship.
- 2019: Finished 2nd in a World Series of Poker Circuit event.
These milestones laid the groundwork for what would become an extraordinary poker career.
How Did Steven Jones Rise Through the Poker Ranks?
Image – Source
Jones’ journey through the poker world is marked by steady growth. Unlike many who chase rapid wins, Steven’s strategy was calculated. Between 2016 and 2023, he racked up an impressive number of tournament finishes, constantly building experience and confidence.
His most memorable performances before 2023 included his 2018 final table finish at the WSOP and second place in the 2019 Circuit event. These moments demonstrated his ability to handle pressure and compete with elite players.
By 2023, Steven had developed a reputation for:
- Consistent deep runs in large-field events
- Balanced playstyle between aggression and patience
- Calmness under pressure
His track record positioned him perfectly for the WSOP Main Event in 2023, where his name would be etched in poker history.
What Was Steven Jones’ Breakthrough Moment at the WSOP 2023?
Steven Jones had the biggest moment of his poker career during the 2023 World Series of Poker Main Event. Outlasting over 10,000 players in the largest Main Event ever held, Jones claimed second place, taking home $6.5 million.
The final table was a dramatic affair. Steven entered as the second-largest chip holder and maintained a dominant position for most of the final day. Although he eventually lost the heads-up battle to Daniel Weinman, his strategic play earned widespread admiration.
WSOP 2023 Final Table Snapshot
| Player | Finish | Prize Money |
| Daniel Weinman | 1st | $12,100,000 |
| Steven Jones | 2nd | $6,500,000 |
| Adam Walton | 3rd | $4,000,000 |
His performance at WSOP 2023 not only made him a millionaire but also elevated his status in the international poker community. He became a household name overnight.
What Are Steven Jones’ Career Earnings and Poker Achievements?
As of February 2024, Steven Jones’ total live tournament winnings have exceeded $6.9 million, and by late 2025, reports suggest that his earnings are approaching $7.3 million.
While he doesn’t hold a WSOP bracelet yet, his achievements are significant:
- Final Tables: 3
- WSOP Money Finishes: 26
- Highest Finish: 2nd in WSOP Main Event 2023
- All-time Money List Rank: 271st (as per Hendon Mob)
He is now among the top American poker players, with analysts expecting him to continue rising in the rankings.
What Steven Jones Poker Player is Doing Now?
Image – Source
After his huge poker year in 2023, Steven shocked fans by announcing his appearance on the reality TV series Squid Game: The Challenge. Appearing as Player 183, Steven entered the Netflix competition in 2025, aiming for the £4.56 million prize.
Though the show is fictional in premise, its reality version tests both mental and physical strength. It features 456 players, each navigating high-stress environments and psychological warfare. For Steven, the challenge was another opportunity to test his resilience.
Many fans of the show were surprised to learn he was a millionaire poker player. He kept his poker success a secret from fellow contestants to avoid being targeted, showcasing his strategic thinking off the felt.
Steven has since balanced his time between poker tables, reality TV appearances, and managing his real estate business.
Why Did Steven Jones Join Squid Game: The Challenge on Netflix?
Steven’s participation in Squid Game: The Challenge reflects his appetite for high-stakes challenges beyond poker. The show, inspired by the globally successful South Korean series, features 456 participants competing in grueling mental and physical tasks.
His motivation seems twofold:
- Pushing Personal Limits: Competing in an environment unlike poker, testing adaptability and social strategy.
- Broadening His Brand: Reality TV gave him exposure beyond the poker community.
He shared a photo in the classic green tracksuit on social media, captioned, “Your boy has entered the games!” The show reached over 220 million viewers in its first few weeks, making it one of Netflix’s biggest hits.
Steven’s presence added intrigue and raised the bar for other contestants. His poker background gave him a psychological edge, reading people, hiding emotion, and taking calculated risks.
How Is Steven Balancing Poker, Real Estate, and TV Fame?
Despite the fame and winnings, Steven hasn’t left his first love, real estate. He still operates JR Jones Realty, Arizona’s high-end real estate brokerage. Many are surprised to learn that poker is not his full-time job.
His ability to balance two demanding careers is impressive. He uses his poker winnings to fuel his business ventures and invest in Arizona’s luxury property market.
Outside of work, Steven enjoys:
- Spending time with his dogs
- Travelling internationally
- Connecting with friends and family
- Keeping fit and mentally sharp
Though he doesn’t seem to have a partner or kids, his personal life appears full and content.
Where Does Steven Jones Go From Here?
Image – Source
With poker accolades under his belt, a growing real estate firm, and a reality TV debut, Steven Jones stands at a unique crossroads. Whether he chooses to focus more on business, play more poker, or take on more entertainment roles remains to be seen.
One thing is clear, Steven has a gift for reinvention. As of late 2025, he’s a respected figure in multiple domains, and fans across the world are watching what he does next.
Conclusion
Steven Jones has proven that success isn’t limited to just one table. From poker chips to property deals and now game-show arenas, his journey blends grit, strategy, and ambition.
Whether it’s outplaying 10,000 poker pros or navigating 456 reality show contestants, Steven is always calculated, calm, and quietly confident.
As he continues to grow in influence, both on-screen and off, Steven Jones remains a name to watch, not just in poker, but across multiple arenas of fame and business.
FAQs
What is Steven Jones’ current profession apart from poker?
Steven Jones is a real estate broker and owner of JR Jones Realty in Arizona.
How much did Steven Jones win in the 2023 WSOP Main Event?
He won $6.5 million as the runner-up in the WSOP Main Event 2023.
What is his ranking in poker earnings?
As of 2025, he ranks 271st on the all-time money list with approximately $7.3 million in winnings.
Does Steven Jones have a WSOP bracelet?
No, he has not yet won a WSOP bracelet, although he has made three final tables.
Is poker his full-time job?
No, he considers poker a passion and primarily works in real estate.
What makes Steven Jones unique in the poker world?
His blend of success in poker, business, and now reality TV makes him a rare multi-faceted personality in the poker scene.
Featured Image – Source
