Criminal Charges Filed Following Poker Home Game Attack on Maurice Hawkins
The poker player who attacked Maurice Hawkins at a private game in Florida is now facing assault charges.
Eugenio Castaneda ("Eugene"), during a dispute of nationality, walked around the table and began punching the World Series of Poker Circuit (WSOPC) ring record-holder. Most of those punches landed, and a video of the incident that surfaced on social media went viral.
PokerNews spoke with Castaneda last week to get his side of the story. He said Hawkins, during the debate over nationality, asked him if he wanted to box, which led to the fight. Both players went out to their cars after the fight and then returned. Castaneda admitted to retrieving a weapon, he claims, in self-defense, concerned the high-profile poker player had done the same.
The two feuding players later returned to the game, and there were no additional incidents. But the fight has now become a legal matter.
Charges Filed Against Poker Player
Hawkins, on Wednesday, informed his X followers that he has pressed charges against Castaneda. He wrote: "Actions have consequences," followed by the request to "put some music to that."
A source who wished to remain anonymous confirmed to PokerNews that a warrant is out for the arrest of Castaneda as of Dec. 10. But the Florida cash game grinder has yet to turn himself in to police, nor has he obtained legal counsel, as of Thursday. No timeline on when or if he will surrender to Martin County police has been determined.
Hawkins, on the other hand, has obtained a new attorney. He tweeted: "Just know I am a brand name. My new lawyers are going to make sure everyone understands that."
Hawkins is the only 21-time WSOP Circuit ring holder ever. Hawkins is currently chasing his 22nd ring in the $1,100 No-Limit Hold'em event at Harrah's Cherokee in North Carolina where he bagged the Day 1b chip lead. Ari Engel is in second place with 20 Circuit rings.
The PokerNews Podcast crew discussed the physical altercation during the latest episode below.
