Greg Merson, 24, of Laurel, Maryland poses with $8.5 million in cash and his championship bracelet after winning the World Series of Poker Main Event at the Rio Hotel &amp; Casino in Las Vegas, Nevada

Greg Merson, 24, of Laurel, Maryland poses with $8.5 million in cash and his championship bracelet after winning the World Series of Poker Main Event at the Rio Hotel & Casino in Las Vegas, Nevada

Greg Merson, 24, of Laurel, Maryland poses with $8.5 million in cash and his championship