Antonio �The Magician� Esfandiari was born and spent the first few years of his life in Tehran, Iran. His family moved to California in search of a better and more successful life. During school he found it difficult to get along with the other students. He was able to speak English and was a very bright student. However, his Iranian accent was the butt of other American students. It was Antonio�s goal to become successful in life and make all of his enemies and bullies jealous. The Magician was able to do all of this and at a very young age. Esfandiari became interested in magic tricks during his teens and started his own business. He would entertain family and friends and soon was working late nights and living a different lifestyle. Antonio�s father did not approve of this uncommon way of living and eventually kicked him out of the house. His poker career started quickly. One night his roommate and friend entered a poker tournament at a local casino. While his friend was playing the tournament, Antonio decided to try his luck at the regular no-limit tables. He quickly fell in love with the game! He was able to use all of his skills to win and become a successful professional poker player. Antonio�s hard work and dedication to poker finally paid off in 2004. He won the WSOP bracelet and jackpot! He had also one previous tournaments and competitions until that point. Antonio is one of the most talented, focused and driven poker players involved in the industry.