The player was a grinder on the local circuit
Jason “Clozer” Kapoor, a well-known figure in the Michigan poker scene and the wider Midwest poker circuit, has passed away at 29. He reportedly took his own life, leaving behind a community of players and friends who admired him both for his talent at the table and his personal warmth.
Born on December 21, 1994, Kapoor’s life had its share of challenges early on. He left home at 14 and spent much of his youth working long hours at a Dunkin Donuts, later transitioning to selling cars. His passion for poker grew over the years, and in 2019, he decided to pursue the game professionally. Known for his skills in both online and cash games, Kapoor accumulated $153,355 in lifetime earnings, according to The Hendon Mob.
One of Kapoor’s standout performances came in 2022 when he took third place at the Mid-States Poker Tour (MSPT) US Poker Championship, earning $41,721. He held a dominant chip lead during the final stages but ultimately finished third after several tough hands. Despite the disappointment, Kapoor dedicated the tournament to his best friend, Ray Malone III, who had recently been killed by a drunk driver.
“He dedicated what would be his biggest lifetime score to him when he ended that tournament in third place,” shared Kapoor’s friend and poker reporter Liam Gannon.
Kapoor, who had relocated to Thailand in 2022, often shared glimpses of his life abroad on social media. Friends like Gannon remember him for his genuine nature, infectious smile, and no-nonsense attitude. His passing has left a deep void in the poker community, with many paying tribute to a player who touched the lives of so many.
Emma Rodriguez is the Proofreader at the Big Blind, with seven years of experience and five years in online gambling. She plays a crucial role in maintaining content quality by ensuring error-free, reader-friendly information about the gambling industry.