James "Mokka" Akenhead
James started playing poker only a few years ago in hometown of London whilst playing professional pool. He immediately became interested in the game and dedicated himself to learning to play, reading every book he could find and playing as frequently as possible.
James played regularly around London, working on his game with the “Hit Squad”. During this time James began posting some solid tournament results, final-tabling in several tournaments.
James made his first WSOP cash finish in 2008 at the $1.5K No-Limit Hold ‘em event. James finished 2nd from a field of almost 4,000 competitors, claiming over $520K.
In 2009 James worked his way through an even bigger and more competitive field to earn his place amongst the November Nine at the 2009 WSOP Main Event final table. James finished an admirable 9th place to take home over $1.2 million.
In December 2009 James won his first major tournament when he landed 1st place in Poker Million VIII. The $500,000 prize money finished off a fantastic year and took James' career tournament winnings to over $2.7 million.