3 Minutes Read
Poker pro Shaun Deeb, a six-time WSOP bracelet winner, is known for his fearless bluffs and aggressive play at the felt. But his latest gamble transcends the poker table – it’s a $1 Million wager with high-stakes pal Bill Perkins to shed pounds and sculpt a body worthy of a fitness magazine cover.
The catalyst? A seemingly innocent clip of Deeb indulging in his favourite chicken wings. Perkins, poker’s resident health evangelist, saw an opportunity for friendly competition (and a hefty payday). Thus, the “Deeb Body Bet” was born, setting a target of 17% body fat for Deeb before the 2024 World Series of Poker in May, with Deeb putting in $100,000 at 10:1 odds to achieve this feat.
Once synonymous with late-night sessions and greasy takeout, Deeb has undergone a stark transformation. His days are now filled with early-morning cardio, rigorous gym workouts, and meticulously planned meals. His recent dual x-ray absorptiometry (DEXA) scan, shared on X alongside a toned selfie, reveals that he is sweating it out pretty aggressively and is barely recognizable in his recent no-shirt picture. The scepticism that initially greeted the bet has been replaced by awe at Deeb’s dedication and progress.
You guys wanted a progress pic so I give the people what they want once that gut is gone the million will be mine pic.twitter.com/yZEUQdUN2V
— shaun deeb (@shaundeeb) January 27, 2024
The numbers tell a compelling story. Starting at a hefty 306 pounds and a body fat percentage of 40.2% last March, Deeb faced an uphill battle. But his progress has been staggering. As per the last update shared on January 27, 2024, he’s down to 222 pounds with a body fat of 23.9% – just 6.9% shy of his goal. That’s a staggering 85-pound weight loss in under a year.
With such consistent progress, it’s clear Deeb is well on his way to accomplishing his ambitious goal. If Deeb hits the target, he stands to add a cool Million to his impressive bankroll.
While the $1 million prize is undoubtedly enticing, Deeb’s transformation has transcended mere monetary gain. It’s a journey towards a healthier, happier him, a shift in priorities that prioritizes well-being over late-night poker sessions. His progress is inspiring not just poker players but anyone looking to ditch fast food and embrace a healthier lifestyle.
Deeb isn’t the first to walk this high-stakes path. Poker pro Doug Polk‘s 2022 near-miss at a similar bet with Perkins underscores the gruelling nature of these challenges. But Deeb’s dedication and meticulous approach make him the current favourite to win this bet.
The clock is ticking, with four months until the 55th annual WSOP. Deeb faces a final gruelling push, every workout, every calorie counted, a step closer to the million-dollar jackpot.
Whether or not he reaches the ultimate goal, Shaun Deeb’s journey is already a win. He’s proven that even the highest stakes can lead to the most rewarding physical and mental transformations. So, grab your water bottle and join the cheering section because Deeb’s story is a reminder that anything is possible when you put your mind and body to the test.