Born in Ecuador, Juan Carlos Mortensen moved to Spain when he was 15-years old. While working as a bartender he noticed a group of club patrons playing Texas no-limit hold’em and joined in. Though he lost the first game, he continued to play in what was to become a regular poker game and won frequently. He quit his bartending job and began playing full-time in local clubs and game rooms in Spain. His aggressive and risky style of play earned him the nickname “El Matador.”

Juan Carlos made the trek to Atlantic City in the late 1990’s with his then wife, Cecelia Reyes. Juan Carlos soon adjusted, learned some English, and spent much time analyzing the games of opponents, then began to crush the cash games and make an impact on the tournament circuit around the U.S.

Personal Quote

My opponents think I am very aggressive and crazy sometimes. I want to have that image because it gives me an advantage. They don't want to raise my blind because I will make a move. I might have the best hand or no hand at all, but they will be forced to throw their hand away.