Back in 1999 A young Carl Ciampanelli opened his first packs of Pokemon cards and instantly felt the spark. Like many kids at the time, he traded cards with friends, memorized every detail, and proudly tucked his favorites into binders. But unlike most, Carl never grew out of the game. He held onto his collection, including those first original cards, not knowing that one day they would become the foundation of something much bigger.
A Collection Beyond Imagination
Over the years, Carl’s passion for collecting never slowed down—it accelerated. Today, he owns over one million single Pokémon cards, including some of the rarest finds in the hobby. His dedication has earned him recognition as one of the largest collectors and creators in the Chicagoland area, a title built on decades of consistency and passion.
Enter ChampPokemon
Carl took his love of Pokémon to the next level when he launched his Whatnot channel, ChampPokemon. What started as a way to share his collection has since grown into a thriving business and community. Through live shows and auctions, Carl connects with collectors across the country, creating an experience that’s fun, trustworthy, and authentic.
The numbers tell the story:
- Over 3,500 items sold
- 500+ five-star reviews
- Cards shipped to all 50 states in the U.S.
Every transaction is more than a sale—it’s a way of spreading the same excitement he felt back in 1999 when he first held a Pokémon card.
The Entrepreneurial Grind
The path hasn’t always been easy. Building a trusted presence online takes time, effort, and relentless energy. Carl faced challenges every entrepreneur knows: competition, long hours, and the pressure to stand out. But with persistence, a strong reputation, and a genuine passion for the hobby, ChampPokemon became a name collectors could count on.
Eyes on a World Record
Carl’s journey isn’t just about building a business—it’s about chasing history. His ultimate goal is set for 2026: to break a world record with Pokémon. With a lifetime of dedication, an unmatched collection, and the drive to succeed, he’s determined to leave his mark not just on the community, but on the record books.
More Than Cards
For Carl Ciampanelli, Pokémon has always been about more than just the cards. It’s about passion, nostalgia, and the connections built through a shared love of the game. Through ChampPokemon, he continues to inspire others to follow their own passions—because sometimes the things you loved as a kid can grow into the biggest opportunities of your life.
From a binder of cards in 1999 to one of the biggest Pokémon collections in the country, Carl’s story is proof that when you follow your passion, you can turn it into something extraordinary. And with 2026 on the horizon, the world may soon know the name ChampPokemon on a whole new level.
Media info:
Carl Ciampanelli
Champpokemon
Crystal Lake, IL, 60014.