Bruno Lopes

Bruno Lopes, better known by his stage name Kool Shen, is a French professional poker player who transitioned from a legendary rap career to become a respected tournament competitor. With over $2.17 million in live earnings, he has achieved success on the World Poker Tour, European Poker Tour, and World Series of Poker circuits.

Born in Courbevoie, France, Bruno Lopes rose to fame as one half of the iconic French rap group Suprême NTM, which he co-founded with JoeyStarr in the late 1980s. After establishing himself as a godfather of French rap through his label IV My People, he turned his competitive drive to poker.

Lopes started playing Texas Hold'em in early 2008 at the Aviation Club de France, quickly making a final table at the Paris Open of Poker (2nd out of 140 for €2,300). He immersed himself in the game, studying and traveling, soon becoming a feared tournament player rather than a mere celebrity.

• 2012 Euro Finals of Poker: Won €100,000 after outlasting 108 players.
• 2012 WPT National Series Cannes: Defeated 337 players to win €108,000.
• 2016 SISMIX Marrakech: Claimed his third major title for €80,000.
• 2016 WSOP Main Event: One of the French players with the most cashes in this event, earning consistent results.

In 2022, Lopes achieved his career-best score at the €25,000 High Roller of EPT Monte-Carlo, finishing second for €703,990. This result proved his ability to compete at the highest stakes. In 2024, he reached his first WSOP final table in the $5,000 Seniors High Roller, placing 6th for $99,203.

Known for patience, discipline, and charisma, Lopes employs a balanced, fundamentally sound approach. He avoids unnecessary risks but seizes opportunities, leveraging his deep experience and study of the game.

Since autumn 2012, Lopes has been a member of Team Winamax, Europe's most decorated poker team. He continues to represent the team both live and online, adding to his legacy as a versatile competitor.

Bruno Lopes remains a unique figure in poker—a former rap icon who earned respect through hard work and consistent results. His journey from the music stage to the poker felt inspires many, and he continues to compete at the highest levels.