Mel has had several noticeable finishes in the World Poker Tour (WPT) and he won World Series bracelets in 1989 and 1997 for the $1,500 and $5,000 Seven Card Stud events. He also claimed the 2003 Legends of Poker title on the World Poker Tour, winning $579,375. As of 2007 his total live tournament winnings exceed $2,900,000.