Fedor Holz is widely regarded as one of the most successful and intelligent poker players of his generation. Rising quickly from online anonymity to dominate the live high-roller circuit, Holz exemplifies the modern poker superstar—analytical, fearless, and consistently driven to improve. His story is one of focus, innovation, and extraordinary results achieved in a remarkably short span of time.
Early Life and Entry into Poker
Born in Germany in 1993, Fedor Holz discovered poker in his teenage years. He began playing online under the alias “CrownUpGuy,” gradually building a reputation in the digital poker world for his strategic acumen and relentless drive. Despite being based in Germany, a country with limited online poker options at the time, Holz relocated to Austria to pursue the game professionally.
Online Poker Success
Holz made a name for himself in online tournaments with a sharp, calculated style that allowed him to thrive in some of the most competitive fields. One of his most notable early achievements came in 2014 when he won the World Championship of Online Poker (WCOOP) Main Event on PokerStars for $1.3 million. That victory put him firmly on the radar of the global poker community and marked the beginning of his meteoric rise.
Dominating the Live High Roller Circuit
Not content with online success alone, Holz quickly transitioned into live poker, particularly in high roller and super high roller events. Between 2015 and 2016, he went on one of the most extraordinary tournament runs in poker history.
Some of his key live achievements include:
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2016 WSOP $111,111 High Roller for One Drop – Winner: Holz captured his first WSOP bracelet and $4.9 million in prize money.
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2016 Triton Super High Roller Series Manila – Winner: He took down this elite event for $3.1 million.
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2016 Super High Roller Bowl – Runner-Up: Holz finished second for $3.5 million, further establishing himself as one of the elite live tournament players.
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$35 million+ in total live earnings: As of today, he remains one of the highest-earning tournament players in poker history.
Retirement and Return
At just 23 years old, Holz announced a “retirement” from full-time poker in 2016 to focus on business ventures and personal growth. However, his love for the game has kept him active in major events, often with continued success. He’s also become a respected voice in the poker community, sharing his insights and helping to train the next generation through his coaching platform, Pokercode.
Strategic Mind and Influence
Fedor Holz is admired not just for his results, but for his approach to the game. He combines game theory, psychological insight, and technical skill in a way that few others can. His ability to adapt quickly to opponents and use data-driven decision-making has influenced a new wave of analytical poker professionals.
Legacy in Modern Poker
Fedor Holz’s poker career is a testament to what is possible when talent meets discipline and innovation. From online prodigy to live tournament legend, he has achieved in a few short years what many spend decades pursuing. His legacy continues to inspire players around the world, and his impact on the evolution of competitive poker will be felt for years to come.
