| 1986 WSOP Main Event Winner | Berry Johnston |
|---|---|
| Runner Up | Mike Harthcock |
| Winning Hand | A 10 |
| Losing Hand | A 8 |
| 1st Place Prize | $570,000 |
| Number of Main Event Entrants | 141 |
The winner of the 1986 World Series of Poker Main Event was a familiar sight at the final table, as Berry Johnston had finished in third place two previous times at the Main Event. 1986 would be his year to get over the hump and finally attain the victory he craved.
Interestingly enough, there was another player at the final table who had numerous appearances under his belt with no victories. That was Jesse Alto, who had four previous final table appearances. However, he would finish in fourth place, his dreams once again denied.
Berry Johnston had started the final table with a significant chip lead and used it to knock out several of his opponents to expand the lead even farther. Berry made it to heads-up play, and his opponent was Mike Harthcock. In the final hand Harthcock moved all-in before the flop with A-8, and after deliberation Berry made the call with his A-10. The A-10 would hold up to win the pot and relieve Mike Harthcock of the rest of his chips. Berry Johnston took down the victory and the first prize of $570,000.