Quote Originally Posted by strawman
Since I had won the last two pots I decided to keep my rush going I had just semi-bluffed the button on the hand before and have taken his chips in every hand we have played against each other.
Here is your first mistake: Allowing past momentum swings to dictate your current play. Poker is a game of consistancy, don't let your highs and lows determine your play.
Quote Originally Posted by strawman
I want to leave him with the impression that I will look him up if he comes over the top of me again. How many chips is a lasting impression worth? In the end I decided it was worth paying him off now for better future prospects than folding and having a good session now.
Same thing here. Loosing hand #380924908 so that you can win hand #472947382 is a loosing cause and has no influence. Every hand is a new one.

Good call btw.