Josh Arieh

Josh Arieh Josh Arieh got his start in poker the traditional way. He started playing in friendly games with his buddies after shooting pool… often playing until one person had all the money. He says that more often that not, that somebody was him. He did not intend to become a professional poker player but a friend convinced him that he could be more success and make more money if he concentrated on his poker game full time so he did just that and it seemed to have paid off. Josh Arieh’s big splash onto the world poker seen came in 2004, when he took 3rd at the WSOP Main Event winning $2.5 million.

Josh Arieh actions at the table have earned him a reputation as a ‘bad boy’. He is known for his trash talking and the loud music coming from his headphones. This behavior has not won him many friends at the tables but he admits that “that is not why I’m here in the first place”. However, many of his peers do respect his playing style where he is relentlessly aggressive and always is looking to attack his opponents at the slightest hint of weakness.

He was born in Rochester, New York and currently resides in Georgia with his wife, Angela, and their two children. Josh Arieh does enjoy the support of his family and his wife has taken up managing him and his career on a full time basis.

His total live tournament winnings has totaled more that $6.8 million. 

Josh Arieh Fun Facts and Finishes

  • In 2005, he won the WSOP Pot-Limit Omaha title securing his second WSOP bracelet.
  • In 2004, he finished in 3rd at the WSOP Main Event.
  • In 2000, placed 2nd to poker champion Johnny Chan in the WSOP Pot-Limit Omaha event.
  • In 1999, he won his first WSOP gold bracelet in a Limit Hold'em tournament.
  • Arieh is known for his aggressive moves and breaches to etiquette. He was criticized for an incident at a final table. After being eliminated, Arieh was shaking hands with the remaining two players: Greg Raymer and David Williams . While shaking hands with Williams, Arieh pulled him very close and whispered: "bust this motherfucker", referring to Raymer. Arieh was unaware that there was a microphone that picked up the comment and it was televised on ESPN. Arieh apologized and now Raymer and him are friends.

World Series of Poker Bracelets

YearTournament Prize (US$)
1999 $3,000 Limit Hold'em $202,800
2005 $2,000 Pot Limit Omaha $381,600