Tom Dwan has made a big name for himself in the poker world through his online exploits and bold challenges that he commonly issues.  The latest challenge has him taking on a number of noted live poker pros in a Million Dollar Challenge being put on by Matchroom Sport in London.  The first leg of the challenge had Dwan taking on Marcello “luckexpress” Marigliano.

Both players bought into this heads-up matchup for $250,000 which set the stage for a marathon playing session; the match lasted 12 hours and saw 500 hands play out.  When all 500 hands had been played, it was Marigliano who held the advantage with $272,500 compared to Dwan’s $227,500.

The fact that Marigliano ended up winning the challenge is very interesting since the statistics would indicate otherwise.  Dwan was able to win 55% of the hands, and was more aggressive on the button after raising 84% of the time.  However, the end results obviously indicate that Marcello Marigliano was the winner.

After the heads-up match was over with, Marigliano told Matchroom Sport, “In the end, I won a small amount, but I’m happy though as I won with bluffs.  He raised a lot pre-flop and you have to play tight, but I made some good moves, and I’m happy I proved I can play with Tom.”

The matchup with Marigliano is only the first part of the challenge since Dwan will be facing off against llari Sahamies today in 500 hands of Pot-Limit Hold’em; this is going to be shown on the Sky Sports network in 2010.  After Sahamies, Dwan will take on Sammy “Any Two” George.  This match is very interesting since George is known for his tendency to play any two cards that he holds.