Joao Simao

Joao Simao is a Brazilian professional poker player who has risen to the top of the game through a combination of online prowess and live tournament success. With more than $20 million in live earnings and four WSOP bracelets, Simao is widely regarded as one of the most accomplished players from Brazil.

Simao began his poker journey online, where he honed his skills and built his bankroll. He won his first WSOP bracelet in 2021 in the $1,111 Caesars Cares Charity Event, topping a field of 1,584 entrants for $228,946. This victory marked his arrival on the live tournament scene.

In 2022, Simao claimed his second bracelet in the $5,000 Mixed No-Limit Hold'em/Pot-Limit Omaha event, earning $686,242. His third bracelet came at the 2025 WSOP Paradise festival, where he won the $150,000 Triton No-Limit Hold'em event for a career-best $3,067,000. Simao's fourth bracelet arrived in 2026, when he won the $50,000 High Roller Pot-Limit Omaha event for $1,368,700. After that victory, he famously shouted "tetra" in celebration, a term Brazilians use for a fourth title.

Beyond the WSOP, Simao has excelled in high roller events worldwide. In 2025, he won Super High Roller Bowl X for $1,110,000. He also took down Event #8 of the 2026 U.S. Poker Open for $292,800 and has multiple cashes in Triton Poker Series events, including a $345,000 score in the $200,000 Invitational in Montenegro. Simao's live earnings now exceed $20 million, and he has accumulated 230 total cashes according to records.

Simao is known for a balanced yet aggressive playing style. He leverages position and post-flop precision, often employing a GTO-based approach online while adapting to exploit opponents' weaknesses in live settings. His deep-stack play is particularly formidable, allowing him to accumulate chips through sustained pressure.

Joao Simao has become a symbol of Brazilian poker success, inspiring a new generation of players. His transition from online grinder to live high-stakes champion demonstrates a path to the top. With four WSOP bracelets and numerous high roller titles, Simao continues to cement his legacy as one of the best players in the world.