In this fourth and final installment of our exclusive Legends of the Cue series with Hall of Fame icon Nick Varner, we bring his extraordinary journey full circle. From the heights of world titles to the challenges of sustaining a career in a sport often overshadowed, Nick’s story is equal parts grit, passion, and perseverance.
Nick revisits his late-career triumphs, including capturing his second WPA World Nine Ball Championship at the age of 51 and going undefeated to claim the 2000 World One Pocket Championship. Alongside host Mike Gonzalez and co-host Mark Wilson, he reflects on how pool’s professional landscape changed when Camel withdrew its sponsorship, leaving players scrambling for new ways to make a living. For Nick, the answer was entrepreneurship—launching his own line of cues that became a successful business built the old-fashioned way: with handshakes, relationships, and relentless hustle.
The conversation also turns deeply personal as Nick shares how his wife, Tony, was by his side for nearly every match of his professional career, serving as both supporter and coach. He opens up about the shots he wishes he could have back, including a heartbreaking loss to Earl Strickland, and how he’d approach the game differently if starting over today.
Closing with reflections on legacy, Nick emphasizes resilience, composure, and the joy of giving back to the sport that defined his life. Mark and Mike underscore what makes Varner unique: a tireless worker, a consummate sportsman, and a man who never quit on himself—or the game.
This episode not only caps a four-part deep dive into one of pool’s greatest champions, it preserves the voice of a legend whose story continues to inspire players and fans alike.
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Music by Lyrium.
About
"Legends of the Cue" is a pool history podcast featuring interviews with Pool Hall of Fame members, winners of major championships and other people of influence in and around pocket billiards. We also plan to highlight memorable pool brands, events and venues. Focusing on the positive aspects of the sport, we aim to create and provide an engaging and timeless repository of content that listeners can enjoy now and forever. Co-hosted by WPA and BCA Hall of Fame member Allison Fisher, Mosconi Cup player and captain Mark Wilson, our podcast focuses on telling the life stories of pool's greatest, in their voices. Join Allison, Mark and Mike Gonzalez for “Legends of the Cue.”
