Tony Chohan’s story took a dramatic turn in 2009.

In Part 3 of this four-part Legends of the Cue interview, Tony speaks with remarkable candor about the choices that led to his incarceration, the fear of losing years of freedom and prime playing time, and the lessons he carried home when he was released in 2015.

Tony refuses to frame what happened as bad luck. His words are simple: it was a “wrong choice, wrong time.” He talks about surviving prison, taking college courses, staying out of trouble and keeping one eye on the pool world through magazines and newspapers sent to him while he was away.

Then comes one of the most extraordinary comeback stories in modern pool.

Within days of his release, Tony was back in action. He recalls matching up with Danny Smith, rapidly recovering his One Pocket instincts and going roughly two years without losing a major gambling set. He later rebuilt his tournament career, winning Buffalo’s Pro Classic in 2016 and becoming deeply connected to the New Orleans action scene.

Tony explains why Buffalo’s became the “Mecca of Pool,” why he prefers action to many tournaments, and why competition remains essential to his identity.

The episode also turns deeply personal as Tony discusses living with hidradenitis suppurativa, the pain of the condition, a difficult surgery and infection, months of recovery and his determination to undergo another procedure and reclaim his health.

A powerful story of consequences, resilience, competition and second chances.

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Music by Lyrium.

About

"Legends of the Cue" is a cue sports history podcast featuring interviews with influential figures from across the world of cue sports—including pocket billiards, snooker, and carom disciplines such as three-cushion billiards. We highlight the people, places, and moments that have shaped the game—celebrating iconic players, memorable events, historic venues, and the brands that helped define generations of play. With a focus on the positive spirit of the sport, our goal is to create a rich, engaging, and timeless archive of stories that fans can enjoy now and for years to come.

Co-hosted by WPA and BCA Hall of Fame member Allison Fisher and Mosconi Cup player and captain Mark Wilson, Legends of the Cue brings these stories to life—told in the voices of the game’s greatest figures.

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