When Lucas Jumalon dominated the WSOP Main Event in August, winning $10,000,000, he reached a milestone that poker players worldwide dream of. Just months after this life-changing victory, his story is taking another turn. This time, he will be hunting for someone at the poker tables to pass on some of his wisdom.
The World Series of Poker announced yesterday his appointment as the global ambassador for WSOP Academy. This new app aims to teach users how to play poker and engage a new generation of enthusiasts. Jumalon will be the face of the app, and the collaboration will include live tournament involvement.
From WSOP Circuit to Las Vegas
During a season-long tour, Jumalon will visit WSOP Circuit events worldwide. At each stop, he will hold special game-focused meetings exclusively for WSOP Academy users. From each event, one player will earn a free entry to the Main Event of that stop.
Participants will have a chance to meet the reigning world champion and pave their way into major tournaments. However, the biggest reward will come at the end of the tour. Among the players who secure entries to the WSOP Circuit events, Jumalon will select one protégé. This lucky individual will receive an invitation to the WSOP Main Event 2027 in Las Vegas, with a $10,000 buy-in, competing under his mentorship.
Organizers have yet to reveal detailed criteria for the final selection. However, it's clear that success at one of the sessions will be the first step toward playing in the tournament that changed Jumalon's life. The champion himself views this new role as a chance to share insights from his own journey.
“Not long ago, I was just a kid dreaming of winning the WSOP Main Event. Now, I have the chance to help someone else chase that same dream,” Jumalon shared. “Poker has completely changed my life. I'm excited to travel the world, meet the next generation of players, and maybe discover someone who will one day play at the final table.”
According to WSOP CEO Ty Stewart, Jumalon's attitude towards his position was a deciding factor. “Lucas impressed everyone in the WSOP family with his maturity and eagerness to help others. We look forward to working with him to further develop and promote the WSOP Academy,” Stewart said.
First Stop in November, Cameras Rolling
The search for new poker talent kicks off on November 13, 2026, in Nottingham. Details about participating in the initial session will be released for WSOP Academy users. The entire journey will be documented by a WSOP production team. Cameras will capture action at and away from the tables, giving fans a glimpse into how the world champion seeks his next protégé.
This traveling poker series will be available exclusively on the official WSOP YouTube channel. The premiere of the first episode is expected by the end of November. After winning the most prestigious title, Jumalon is stepping into a new role. For one player he meets on tour, the seemingly casual participation in a shared game could lead to a spot in the Main Event in Las Vegas and the opportunity to learn from someone who’s been there and won.
