• Tony Hawk expresses interest in participating in more charity poker events after securing a second-place finish in a celebrity tournament in Las Vegas.
• The legendary skateboarder shares his disappointment over not filming parts for Jackass: Best & Last.
• Hawk reveals he would “definitely” consider creating a new Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater game if the opportunity arises.

Tony Hawk is to skateboarding what Wayne Gretzky is to hockey and Michael Jordan is to basketball.

At 58, Hawk remains a major name in the sport nearly thirty years after he famously landed the “900” trick during the 1999 Summer X Games.

This monumental achievement was soon followed by the massive success of the Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater franchise, which continues to thrive with re-releases on contemporary gaming consoles.

Hawk has also made a mark in the poker community. He shared with Casino.org that he began grasping the intricacies of poker about a decade ago, but he struggles to find the time to fully immerse himself in the game.

“I was invited to several celebrity poker tournaments over the years. About ten years ago, I attended one in Vegas that lasted so long it allowed me to really start understanding everyone’s strategies,” Hawk explained. “It was a moment akin to the memes where suddenly everything clicks into place, and you think, ‘Oh, I get this now.’”

“I ended up coming in second place and raised a significant amount for charity. It was a blast, but I realized that I really don’t have the time to devote to it, even though I finally grasp the game,” he added.

Hawk expressed his willingness to engage in future charity poker events, recalling a memorable moment with a late Saturday Night Live star. “I participate whenever there’s a great opportunity for charity,” Hawk shared. “I once played in the Bahamas with Norm Macdonald before he passed away, and that’s a treasured memory for me.”

Despite being renowned for his aerial skills on a skateboard, Hawk described feeling a similar thrill at the poker table.

“There’s an adrenaline rush,” Hawk noted. “It’s intense when you go all in.”

While he isn’t looking to transition into a professional poker career, Hawk is certainly open to more charity tournaments if they come up.

“Absolutely, if the timing is right,” Hawk affirmed. “I’m a bit out of practice, though, I’ll admit.”

Hawk Reflects on the Final Jackass Movie

Johnny Knoxville and his crew recently launched Jackass: Best and Last, which Hawk describes as the concluding chapter in the saga of America’s most famous pranksters.

Hawk has always been connected to this group, as many of the stars share a background in skateboarding.

“The essence of Jackass originated from skating, so it’s no surprise that most of the main players skated in their youth because that lifestyle is about a DIY ethos,” Hawk observed. “Skateboarding involves pushing your physical boundaries, and these guys were accustomed to getting hurt for no video, no cash.”

“There’s a significant creative aspect to skateboarding that is evident in the Jackass series. I was already familiar with most of the key players since they were skaters or ran skate magazines, and it’s always been a joy.”

Throughout the years, Hawk has participated in various skits and learned to stay vigilant on set.

“It’s always an adventure, and often brings a bit of anxiety, because you never really know what to expect,” Hawk reflects. “You have to keep your drink or your private areas protected at all times.”

Hawk expressed his love for being part of Jackass projects but admitted some disappointment about not featuring in the latest film.

“They know I’m always interested in being involved at some level,” Hawk stated. “To be honest, I was a bit disheartened I didn’t get the call for this one. But it seems this was shot relatively quickly, focusing heavily on archival footage. I signed off on using old clips, so I’m in there, but it would have been fantastic to shoot something fresh.”

Although he couldn’t attend the movie premiere, Hawk conveyed his happiness about the film’s positive reception.

“I’m thrilled for them,” Hawk shared. “I was out of town during the premiere and unfortunately missed it. I heard it has been very well received. Just a couple of weeks ago, I ran into Ice-T at another event, and he couldn’t say enough good things about it.”

If Jackass stages a comeback in the future, expect Hawk to return in a creative role.

“I see myself more as an instigator than a victim,” Hawk remarked.

When asked about his favorite skit from the series, he answered without hesitation.

“The bungee jump with Weeman and Preston always makes me laugh uncontrollably,” Hawk shared. “Every single time. It’s so brilliantly simple, capturing their essence perfectly.”

Hawk Discusses the Skateboarding Scene and Video Game Opportunities

Though involved in various projects, Hawk keeps a keen eye on the current skateboarding landscape.

He highlighted some of the skateboarders he particularly enjoys watching.

“Jamie Foy ranks as one of the best all-around skaters,” Hawk noted. “He doesn’t compete often, but what he accomplishes surpasses what people believe is achievable.”

“In terms of half-pipe and vert skating, Tom Scharr remains the gold standard, yet there’s a young skater, Ao Nishikawa, who has executed several NBDs (never been done before) this last year that I genuinely thought were impossible.”

Through the Tony Hawk Pro Skater franchise, he has elevated lesser-known skaters to prominence.

Many current talents have appeared in re-releases, and Hawk eagerly anticipates creating a new Tony Hawk Pro Skater game.

“Absolutely, yes,” Hawk affirmed. “It’s been one of my greatest joys and achievements in my life.”

When inquired if a new game could emerge after the upcoming re-release of Underground, Hawk chuckled.

“That’s your phrasing, not mine,” he said with a grin.

Hawk Shares Changes in His Fitness Routine

Hawk has teamed up with Qunol, a supplementary brand, to promote the importance of staying active as one ages.

At 58, Hawk remains engaged in skateboarding while also incorporating various physical activities into his regime. He emphasizes that maintaining movement is crucial for adults.

“We’re running the ‘Move Like a Champion’ campaign because, especially at my age, staying active is vital,” Hawk explained. “It doesn’t have to imitate your youth. My own skating style is now much lower impact, yet still significant. We encourage people to get active, whether it’s dancing, walking dogs, or playing with kids and grandkids.”

Individuals can share videos of their activities and tag Qunol on social media. Qunol will select submissions to win prize packs that feature Birdhouse skateboards and signed Tony Hawk merchandise.

Hawk’s partnership with Qunol feels seamless, as he acknowledges he learned the hard way about the importance of self-care.

“In my twenties and thirties, all I did was skateboarding, neglecting other forms of fitness that could help me,” Hawk recounted. “It wasn’t until my forties and fifties that I realized the benefits of workouts, stretching, and recovery. All those cliché things people often mention truly work.”

“About four years ago, I faced a significant setback by breaking my femur and I rushed back to skating too soon, which hindered recovery. I had to undergo another surgery, and it was during this time when I comprehended the need to prioritize my health and not take it for granted. Adequate rest, good nutrition, proper supplements, and regular stretching are immensely valuable.”

Hawk’s Evolution as a Skater As He Approaches 60

“Now, I focus on technique and the intricacies of skating,” Hawk explained. “That includes board maneuvers, more complex grinding tricks. The massive aerials and large spins that I could do before are now beyond my physical capabilities.”