Online Casino Doctor

Category: Poker

  • Rivalry Shares Back in Play After Regulator Clears Trade Ban

    Rivalry Shares Back in Play After Regulator Clears Trade Ban

    Rivalry Corp. has resumed trading on the back of long-awaited financial filings, giving investors fresh insight — and the green light — after months of regulatory silence.

    The Ontario Securities Commission (OSC) has officially revoked the management cease trade order that blocked Rivalry’s executives from trading shares. The freeze, initially put in place in early May, stemmed from the company’s delay in submitting key financial reports.

    Cease Trade Order Lifted After Two-Month Pause

    It’s been a tense couple of months for Rivalry’s management and investors alike. On May 2, the OSC issued a management cease trade order (MCTO), halting the ability of Rivalry insiders to buy or sell shares. The reason? A delay in filing the company’s financial statements for the full year of 2024.

    Now, with the filings submitted and posted publicly, the regulator has lifted the order. Rivalry announced on July 17 that the MCTO had officially been revoked, restoring normal trading privileges to its leadership team.

    The company had fallen behind on annual reporting requirements — a red flag for any publicly listed business. Regulatory scrutiny kicked in immediately, as expected.

    Back in Compliance — But Not Without Consequences

    Late filings might sound like a clerical hiccup, but they have serious consequences. The OSC’s MCTO effectively sidelined Rivalry’s top brass from trading for over ten weeks. For a company in the fast-moving world of sports betting and media, that’s not nothing.

    There’s no indication, though, that the delay came from anything more sinister than admin missteps.

    One sentence here for rhythm.

    The key takeaway is simple: Rivalry is now back in good standing.

    What Did Rivalry File?

    The documents filed were more than just a formality. The full-year audited financial statements for 2024 and the first-quarter numbers for 2025 provide essential information for investors — including how the company fared in what’s been a turbulent time for betting platforms.

    The filings include:

    • 2024 annual audited financial statements

    • Management’s Discussion and Analysis (MD&A) for the same period

    • Interim financial statements for Q1 2025

    • Executive certifications affirming accuracy and completeness

    Everything was uploaded to SEDAR+, Canada’s central platform for securities filings.

    A one-liner here to keep it flowing.

    The documents are available for public review on www.sedarplus.ca, under Rivalry’s profile.

    A Closer Look: Rivalry’s Trading Timeline

    Let’s put the sequence in perspective. Here’s a quick table summarising the key dates and regulatory actions:

    Date Event
    May 2, 2025 Ontario Securities Commission issues Management Cease Trade Order
    July 17, 2025 Rivalry files all outstanding financials
    July 17, 2025 OSC revokes MCTO; trading privileges restored
    Post-July 17 Rivalry resumes trading; all filings available on SEDAR+

    There’s no word yet on whether the delay will affect investor confidence long term — but the quick recovery suggests damage control was effective.

    Bigger Picture: What’s Next for Rivalry?

    This isn’t the first bump in the road for Rivalry, and likely won’t be the last. The company operates in a highly competitive and regulatory-heavy market. Sports betting is booming, but scrutiny has increased in lockstep.

    Despite the hiccup, Rivalry remains an active player in the market.

    It’s worth noting that rival companies have also faced reporting delays and regulatory heat — so Rivalry isn’t alone.

    What will matter now is how they capitalise on the rest of 2025. Earnings, user growth, and partnerships will be watched closely in the months ahead.

    And while the paperwork might be caught up, the pressure never really goes away.

  • Montana Quietly Becomes America’s Poker Capital, Leaving Nevada in the Dust

    Montana Quietly Becomes America’s Poker Capital, Leaving Nevada in the Dust

    As the 2025 World Series of Poker wraps up in Las Vegas, a surprise contender has stolen the spotlight: Montana. Yep — not Nevada, not California, but the rugged, sparsely populated Treasure State. According to fresh data from Gambling.com, Montana holds the crown as the most poker-obsessed state in the U.S., based on the number of poker rooms relative to population.

    You wouldn’t expect it, but the numbers don’t lie. With just over a million residents and 24 licensed poker rooms, Montana outpaces even the glitz and glamour of Nevada — and by quite a margin. The rankings may raise eyebrows, but there’s no denying the numbers behind the shuffle.

    Montana’s Poker Scene: Small Population, Big Passion

    It’s not about flashing neon lights or mega-casinos here. Montana’s poker pulse beats strong in low-key venues across the state — from Billings to Missoula, and tucked-away taverns where the felt tables are well-loved and the community runs deep.

    The report revealed that Montana has 2.11 poker rooms per 100,000 residents. That’s nearly double Nevada’s rate and more than twice the national average. Poker is practically part of the cultural fabric out here.

    One-sentence paragraph? Sure. Montana takes its cards seriously.

    And it’s not just quantity — the scene is fiercely local. With limits on maximum bets and modest table sizes, poker in Montana is less about high-rolling and more about grit, patience, and the occasional bluff over a Bud Light.

    Nevada Still Dominates in Volume, But Not Per Capita

    Let’s not bury Nevada too deep. Las Vegas is still home to some of the biggest poker rooms in the world, and the sheer scale of play is unmatched.

    But per capita? Different story.

    Nevada holds 1.13 poker rooms per 100,000 residents, with 37 poker venues spread out across a population of around 3.2 million. That puts it solidly in second place in the rankings.

    This isn’t a knock on Vegas — it’s just math.

    And even as WSOP brings global poker elites to the Strip, the data shows that other states are building strong regional scenes that don’t rely on mega-tourism or billion-dollar casinos.

    The Top Five: Surprises Beyond the Big Names

    Montana and Nevada may have grabbed the headlines, but the rest of the list offers a few curveballs too. Gambling.com’s findings are based on a mix of state gaming commission data and national business directories, adjusted for population.

    Here’s a quick look at the top five:

    Rank State Poker Rooms Population (est.) Rooms per 100K
    1 Montana 24 ~1.1 million 2.11
    2 Nevada 37 ~3.2 million 1.13
    3 New Hampshire 14 ~1.4 million 0.99
    4 Colorado 25 ~5.9 million 0.42
    5 Mississippi 17 ~2.9 million 0.59

    New Hampshire, in third, is something of a dark horse. With nearly one poker room per 100,000 people, it’s built a grassroots scene in places like Rochester and Salem. Legalised charitable gaming helped spark its poker growth.

    Colorado and Mississippi round out the top five, driven by local gaming laws that favour smaller cardrooms outside of traditional casino models.

    So Why Is Montana So Poker-Mad?

    There’s no single answer. But ask any local, and they’ll give you a few clues.

    For starters, the state’s unique gambling laws make it easier for bars and clubs to host low-stakes games. That means poker isn’t limited to big casinos — it’s in corner pubs, VFW halls, and community centres.

    There’s also the social angle. Winters are long. Communities are tight-knit. Poker’s not just entertainment — it’s a gathering ritual. It beats watching reruns at home, that’s for sure.

    And in many rural areas, it’s one of the few competitive social events around. You get the same faces each week, the same trash talk, the same low-stakes drama. It’s like church — just with chips and check-raises.

    Poker Culture Shifts Away From Vegas-Only Glamour

    What this ranking hints at, perhaps more than anything, is a broader shift in poker culture.

    There was a time when all roads led to Vegas — and to some extent, they still do. But poker’s heart has started to beat in different corners of America.

    Some players are tired of $500 buy-ins and five-figure swings. They want games where everyone knows your name, and the worst beat of the night is running out of Coors Light.

    • Local poker scenes are gaining momentum
    • Smaller venues offer more accessible gameplay
    • States with relaxed licensing are seeing spikes in participation

    There’s also the streaming effect. YouTube, Twitch, and poker podcasts have created a new generation of players who don’t need to relocate to Nevada to feel part of the game.

    A bit like craft beer, the game has decentralised. And Montana’s scene, while modest in scale, is rich in character.

    What This Means for the Broader U.S. Poker Landscape

    Montana topping this list might feel like a fluke. It’s not.

    The WSOP may get the media glare, but smaller poker rooms are thriving quietly. They’re filling up tables night after night, without the help of global sponsors or tourist footfall.

    If anything, the data paints a picture of poker’s evolution — from televised celebrity hands to backroom grit and heartland loyalty.

    As big-money poker gets flashier, local scenes are digging deeper. And if the numbers hold up, it’s Montana, not Nevada, where America’s poker soul is quietly being reshuffled.

  • Nevada Gaming Commission Moves Forward with Approval of Five-Card Pai Gow for Casino Floors

    Nevada Gaming Commission Moves Forward with Approval of Five-Card Pai Gow for Casino Floors

    Nevada’s gaming landscape is about to get a little more interesting, as regulators have endorsed the introduction of a new variant of Pai Gow poker—this time, with just five cards instead of seven. This version, which promises to speed up play and reduce errors, has successfully passed its field test at Harrah’s Las Vegas, and now, the Nevada Gaming Commission is giving it the green light for wider use across casino floors.

    This modification to the classic game was developed by Casino Gaming Development and is already making waves among Las Vegas casino managers. In fact, the streamlined version of Pai Gow is being seen as a way to revitalize interest in the game, offering a familiar format with just enough change to attract new players.

    Streamlining the Classic Game

    The appeal of Pai Gow poker lies in its simple mechanics but complex strategies. In the traditional seven-card version, players are dealt seven cards, which they then have to split into two hands: a five-card hand and a two-card hand. This process can sometimes be confusing, especially for new players. The five-card version, however, eliminates this complexity, allowing for a quicker game and fewer chances for mistakes.

    Casino Gaming Development’s chairman, Angel Espino, expressed excitement about the game’s potential to improve efficiency in the casino environment. During a recent meeting with the Nevada Gaming Control Board, Espino shared, “It speeds up the game. You have more hands per hour. You minimize dealer and player error.” And according to industry professionals, this could have a significant impact on both player satisfaction and casino profits.

    With its ability to increase the number of hands dealt per hour, the five-card version addresses a critical issue for casinos: the desire for fast-paced games that attract players who are looking for more action in less time. For casinos, this is not just a convenience; it’s a strategic move to keep players engaged and increase turnover.

    Results from Harrah’s Las Vegas Field Test

    The real test, however, came at Harrah’s Las Vegas, where the five-card Pai Gow variant was trialed before its official recommendation. The results were positive, according to casino managers involved in the trial. Lucas Botsis, the casino manager at Harrah’s, mentioned that while introducing a new game can sometimes be challenging, the familiarity of the five-card Pai Gow variant—being a derivative of a popular game—helped to draw interest from players.

    Botsis pointed out that the new game had a solid hold percentage of around 33%. In casino lingo, this is an indicator of the game’s profitability—essentially, how much the casino is earning from players. The success of the trial period has prompted Harrah’s to keep the game on their floor, offering it as an ongoing part of their casino offerings.

    “We’re seeing interest from players,” Botsis remarked. “It’s always hard to get people into something new, but the fact that it’s a variant of a game they already know makes it much easier to sell.”

    A Changing Landscape for Casino Games

    The approval of the five-card version of Pai Gow poker comes at a time when casinos are increasingly looking for ways to diversify their gaming options. The industry’s challenge is to blend familiar offerings with fresh experiences that can attract both seasoned gamblers and newcomers alike.

    Dustin Brown, Vice President of Gaming for several Caesars Entertainment properties, including Harrah’s, The Linq, and Flamingo, highlighted the significance of this game as part of that broader strategy. He expressed strong confidence in the new variant, noting, “Espino has been a great partner to the operations here in Las Vegas, and I’m interested in any product that he creates or puts out.”

    Brown’s endorsement underscores the importance of partnerships and innovation in the modern casino industry. The success of the five-card Pai Gow could pave the way for similar innovations in other classic casino games. If this variant catches on with players, we might see more alterations to the way traditional games are played in the future.

    The Future of Pai Gow and Other Casino Games

    Looking ahead, the gaming industry seems to be embracing the idea of evolving classic games to meet the preferences of a new generation of players. With rapid advancements in technology and the growing popularity of online gaming, it’s crucial for casinos to keep their offerings fresh and competitive. The five-card Pai Gow is a prime example of how subtle changes can make a significant impact, blending tradition with innovation.

    The success of this version could very well influence other casino games, prompting similar streamlining efforts. As casinos look for ways to stay ahead of the competition, expect to see more changes to familiar games that will both increase speed and reduce complexity, all while maintaining the essence of what makes them enjoyable.

    Ultimately, the five-card version of Pai Gow represents a turning point for how casinos approach game development. It’s a reminder that sometimes, making small adjustments can lead to big rewards—not just for the casinos, but for players as well.

  • Aleksandr Shevliakov Triumphs at 2025 European Poker Tour Monte Carlo Main Event

    Aleksandr Shevliakov Triumphs at 2025 European Poker Tour Monte Carlo Main Event

    Russian IT worker Aleksandr Shevliakov has secured a dream victory at the 2025 European Poker Tour (EPT) Monte Carlo Main Event, winning the €5,300 no-limit hold’em tournament and bagging an impressive seven-figure payout. What makes his win even more remarkable is the fact that Shevliakov qualified for the event through a €530 buy-in online tournament hosted by PokerStars, underlining the rise of online qualifiers in major live poker events.

    With a prize of €1,000,000 ($1,130,000) in his pocket, Shevliakov’s victory marks a significant milestone in his poker career. The 37-year-old from Russia is no stranger to poker’s high-stakes environment but has never experienced a win of this magnitude. Prior to this, his largest score was $541,206, which he earned for a second-place finish in the €10,000 buy-in tournament at the 2023 EPT Paris. However, this new win has completely overshadowed his previous success, cementing his place as a poker force to be reckoned with.

    Shevliakov’s reaction was nothing short of ecstatic: “I won. It’s a dream come true. This is it,” he said, radiating the emotions of a man who has just achieved the pinnacle of his poker career.

    Record-Breaking Turnout at EPT Monte Carlo

    The 2025 EPT Monte Carlo event saw an impressive turnout, with 1,195 entries—a figure that ranks as the second-largest in the event’s two-decade history in Monaco. The only year to surpass this was 2024, when 1,208 players participated. The prize pool for this year swelled to $6,751,750, with the top 175 finishers sharing in the payout, creating an exhilarating atmosphere for both seasoned pros and rising stars alike.

    The immense turnout and subsequent prize pool have reaffirmed the European Poker Tour’s reputation as one of the premier poker tournaments in the world. In fact, the sheer size of the event played a crucial role in propelling Shevliakov to his newfound fame, as this win not only earned him a seven-figure payday but also earned him 1,920 Card Player Player of the Year (POY) points.

    Although this was his first POY-qualified score of 2025, it was a massive boost for Shevliakov, who is now well within the top 50 of the overall POY rankings—a significant achievement that will keep him in the spotlight as the year progresses.

    A Competitive Final Day

    The final day of the event began with six players remaining, and it was 28-year-old Bulgarian Boris Angelov who had the advantage, leading the final table. Angelov had been the runner-up in the 2024 Monte Carlo Main Event, and with the top stack heading into the final day, he was eager to capitalize on his previous experience and secure the elusive victory.

    However, it was Shevliakov’s calm under pressure and exceptional play throughout the event that ultimately saw him outlast Angelov and the rest of the competition. Angelov had to settle for a solid finish in fifth place, but his back-to-back final table appearances in Monte Carlo confirmed his status as one of the rising stars of the EPT.

    Star-Studded Field

    The 2025 EPT Monte Carlo Main Event was teeming with poker heavyweights, with several notable names running deep in the tournament. Four-time World Series of Poker bracelet winner Ari Engel made it to 34th place, while the highly regarded Jose ‘Nacho’ Barbero finished in 31st. Additionally, Spanish high roller Juan Pardo finished in 19th, and 2019 World Series of Poker Europe Main Event champion Alexandros Kolonias claimed 15th place.

    Their presence added to the prestige of the event and provided fans with plenty of exciting moments. Despite their impressive performances, however, it was Shevliakov who emerged victorious, proving that the tournament’s ultimate success can sometimes come from the most unlikely of qualifiers.

    Online Qualifier’s Growing Influence

    One of the most striking aspects of Shevliakov’s victory is the role that online qualifiers continue to play in the poker world. While live events are typically dominated by professional players with years of experience on the circuit, Shevliakov’s win shows that online platforms such as PokerStars are providing more opportunities for amateur players to qualify for big events and make a name for themselves in the live tournament scene.

    The continued growth of online poker is set to play an even more significant role in future poker tournaments, as it levels the playing field and opens up opportunities for players from around the world. Shevliakov’s victory serves as a testament to this trend, demonstrating that with the right skills, determination, and a bit of luck, anyone can win big—even if they come from humble beginnings as an online qualifier.

  • David Coleman’s Bold Bluff at the 2025 U.S. Poker Open Ends in Heartbreak

    David Coleman’s Bold Bluff at the 2025 U.S. Poker Open Ends in Heartbreak

    The poker world was left breathless after an incredible sequence of events at the final table of the 2025 U.S. Poker Open’s $15,000 no-limit hold’em event. With just six players remaining, a colossal clash took place between two of the game’s brightest stars: Alex Foxen, the chip leader, and David Coleman, the 2024 GPI Player of the Year. What followed was a dramatic poker confrontation that left everyone wondering: could Coleman’s audacious double-check raise bluff actually pay off?

    The Scene: A Tense Final Table

    As the tournament heated up, the stakes were undeniably high. With the blinds at 25,000-50,000 and a 50,000 big blind ante, the chips were in play, and the action was fast-paced. At the center of it all, Alex Foxen, known for his aggressive style, was leading the pack with approximately 3.9 million in chips. His opponent, David Coleman, had about 2.05 million, but his reputation as a fierce competitor and seasoned player had him poised to make a big move.

    It was from this tension-filled setup that the hand of the tournament began to unfold.

    The Pre-Flop Battle: Foxen Takes the Lead

    Foxen, holding K♥ K♦, opened the betting from the cutoff with a raise to 100,000. His hand—pocket kings—was certainly strong, but it was a hand that Coleman had some potential to play against. Coleman, with a more modest hand of J♠ 8♠ in the big blind, defended and called.

    The flop came down K♣ 9♦ 2♠, giving Foxen a set of kings, a dream flop for a player holding such a strong pair. Coleman, on the other hand, had little to connect with but still found himself in a spot where the game could unfold in unpredictable ways.

    Foxen led out with a bet of 70,000. The size of the bet was designed to give Coleman a chance to act, and act he did. Rather than just folding or calling, Coleman opted for a bold check-raise to 280,000. This was an indication that Coleman wasn’t simply giving up on the hand—he was trying to take control of the situation.

    Foxen, with his overwhelming advantage, called. At this point, Card Player Poker Odds calculated Foxen’s chances at a staggering 94% to win the hand. It seemed as though Coleman was already looking for a miracle to stay alive in the pot.

    The Turn: A Glimmer of Hope for Coleman

    The turn card, the 10♠, was a moment of dramatic tension. For Foxen, it was another card that kept him well ahead, giving him a strong top set with three kings on the board. But for Coleman, the 10♠ provided an opportunity he couldn’t ignore. The card gave him a flush draw and an open-ended straight draw. Suddenly, his odds of winning the hand went from a mere 6% to 30%.

    Coleman checked again. The ball was now back in Foxen’s court, and the chip leader didn’t hesitate. He bet 280,000, a third of the pot. It was a standard-sized bet, one designed to keep pressure on Coleman while maintaining control of the hand.

    Coleman, undeterred by the odds, made a move that would become the talk of the tournament.

    The Bluff: David Coleman’s Double Check-Raise All-In

    After a brief pause, Coleman decided to go for broke. He put in a massive double check-raise jam, pushing all of his remaining chips into the middle. The move was aggressive, daring, and full of guts. Coleman was risking everything on the hope that Foxen would fold, or at least make a mistake.

    Foxen, with his monster set of kings, didn’t even think twice. He snap-called. At that moment, the pot ballooned to an enormous 4,075,000 chips, creating an intense standoff between the two players. As the cards were revealed, it was clear that Coleman’s daring play was going to come up short.

    Foxen held a dominating position with his set of kings, while Coleman was left hoping for a miracle.

    The River: The Final Twist

    The river card, however, was not to be Coleman’s salvation. The board completed with the 3♣, leaving Foxen’s set of kings as the winning hand. Coleman’s double check-raise bluff had fallen short, and his tournament life was officially over.

    Foxen, on the other hand, continued to build his chip stack, and his decisive play at this moment marked a critical point in his pursuit of victory at the 2025 U.S. Poker Open.

    Why This Hand Will Go Down in Poker Lore

    What made this hand so memorable wasn’t just the enormous pot or the high stakes of the tournament. It was the psychology behind Coleman’s play and Foxen’s confident call. Poker is often as much about reading your opponent as it is about the cards you hold, and this hand exemplified that to perfection.

    Coleman’s decision to go for the double check-raise all-in was both a gamble and a testament to his belief in the power of pressure. For a brief moment, it seemed as if Foxen might be intimidated into folding. But in the end, Foxen’s unflappable nature and confidence in his hand led him to make the right call, crushing Coleman’s chances.

    For poker fans, this hand will surely be discussed for years to come. It’s a prime example of what makes the game so unpredictable and exciting. Coleman’s fearless move may have cost him the pot, but it added another unforgettable moment to the 2025 U.S. Poker Open.

  • Chino Rheem Clinches $295K Victory at PokerGO PLO Series, Crosses $16M in Career Winnings

    Chino Rheem Clinches $295K Victory at PokerGO PLO Series, Crosses $16M in Career Winnings

    Chino Rheem’s done it again — and this time, he’s crossed a major milestone in the process. The high-stakes grinder took down Event No. 4 of the 2025 PokerGO Tour Pot-Limit Omaha Series, a $10,000 buy-in tournament that pulled in 118 entries, netting him a cool $295,000 and pushing his lifetime live earnings over $16 million.

    It’s a familiar sight by now: Rheem, calm and composed, scooping up big pots on the final day under the bright lights of PokerGO Studio. But make no mistake — this one mattered.

    Rheem Adds Another Trophy to an Already Stacked Résumé

    Rheem isn’t new to the winner’s circle. This marked his fifth PokerGO Tour title and second victory of the year, continuing a 2025 run that’s gaining serious traction. He’s also been a WPT Main Event champ three times, won the PokerStars Caribbean Adventure in 2019, and final-tabled just about everything else.

    Yet, there’s one glaring gap in his trophy case — a World Series of Poker bracelet.

    He came close, painfully close, way back in 2008. That year, he finished seventh in the WSOP Main Event and took home $1.77 million. Still no bracelet. You’d think he’d be salty, but Rheem plays it cool. “It’ll come when it comes,” he’s said before.

    Now, with this PLO victory, he’s the proud owner of $16,002,538 in career earnings. That’s not just big — that’s poker royalty level.

    Six Survivors, One Champion

    From the jump, the tournament had firepower. With 118 entries building a hefty $1.18 million prize pool, there was plenty on the line. Only 17 players cashed. Just six made it to Day 2.

    And what a six they were. Familiar names lurked all over the Day 1 leaderboard. Nick Schulman, Jeremy Ausmus, Sean Winter — all deep runs. None of them made the final six.

    One by one, contenders fell. By the end of it, it was Rheem left standing. Calm, efficient, ruthless.

    One sentence break here.

    Poker fans watching from home saw a masterclass in controlled aggression. Not flashy. Just effective.

    Leaderboard Shifts: POY and PGT Points Pile Up

    The victory didn’t just pad Rheem’s bank account. It gave him a big push in this year’s race for the Card Player Player of the Year (POY) and the season-long PokerGO Tour (PGT) standings.

    He bagged 600 POY points with this result. That moves him up to 40th on the 2025 leaderboard. All four of his final tables this year have come in PGT events — consistency at the highest level.

    Where does that put him in the PGT standings? Fourth place overall, as of now.

    That’s a serious run. Especially when you consider we’re still in Q1.

    • Rheem’s 2025 Poker Highlights (So Far):

      • 2 Titles

      • 4 Final Table Appearances

      • Over $500K in Cashes

      • 4th in PGT Standings

      • 40th in Global POY Leaderboard

    He’s heating up. If he keeps up this pace, there’s no telling where he’ll land by year-end.

    Familiar Faces Run Deep — But Fall Short

    A few big names made deep runs in Event #4, but couldn’t quite close the gap.

    Alex Foxen? Out in 16th. Nick Schulman? 14th. Jeremy Ausmus? 13th. Dylan Linde, Lautaro Guerra, and Sean Winter were all in the top 10 — but none made Day 2.

    That’s poker.

    It’s worth noting that this wasn’t some soft field. This was a shark tank from top to bottom. The PokerGO Studio is known for that — high buy-ins, small fields, and nearly every player being a threat to win.

    In that environment, winning even one event is impressive. Winning five? That’s legacy-level stuff.

    Here’s a quick look at how the final payouts stacked up:

    Place Player Prize Money
    1st Chino Rheem $295,000
    2nd (Not disclosed) TBD
    3rd (Not disclosed) TBD
    4th-6th — —

    The full list hasn’t been published yet, but Rheem’s name at the top is all you need to know.

    One More Step Toward a Career Peak?

    It’s easy to forget sometimes just how long Rheem has been around. He’s not a young gun anymore. But he’s not slowing down, either.

    The way he’s been playing in 2025 — steady, smart, surgical — it feels like he’s building toward something bigger. Maybe a WSOP bracelet this summer? Maybe a Player of the Year run?

    Or maybe… just more wins.

    One sentence here too.

    Whatever the case, Rheem’s on fire. And the poker world’s paying attention.

  • ACR Poker Bets Big on Speed with Lightning PKOs for Time-Starved Players

    ACR Poker Bets Big on Speed with Lightning PKOs for Time-Starved Players

    No time for a five-hour grind at the virtual felt? ACR Poker just flipped the table with a bold move that could change how players think about online tournaments — especially those who hate waiting.

    Meet Lightning PKOs — a new breed of progressive knockout tournaments that start and finish in just 45 minutes. Yeah, you read that right. You could be done before your takeout order arrives.

    What Makes Lightning PKOs So… Fast?

    It’s not just a gimmick. ACR Poker clearly did its homework. These events are built for speed from the ground up.

    Players start with only 10 big blinds. That’s razor-thin, giving almost no room for slow play or drawn-out strategies. And with late registration slammed shut after just 20 minutes, you better be in or you’re out.

    The goal? Knock players out. Take their bounties. Stack chips fast.

    One sentence: This is poker on espresso shots.

    To break it down:

    • Starting Stack: 10 big blinds

    • Late Registration: 20 minutes

    • Total Run Time: 45 minutes

    • Format: Progressive Knockout (PKO)

    • Buy-ins: $0.11, $0.53, $3.15, $10.50, $31.50

    It’s wild how much action gets crammed into such a short window. You barely have time to fold twice before someone at your table shoves all-in.

    Pocket Change to Power Plays: Entry Points for Every Bankroll

    This isn’t just for the high-rollers. ACR made sure the Lightning PKO lineup works for anyone — whether you’re messing around on a coffee break or actually chasing real money.

    Buy-ins start at a measly $0.11. That’s cheaper than a gas station coffee.

    You’ve got options, too:

    Buy-In Description
    $0.11 Microstakes, for casual fun
    $0.53 Low stakes, still very active
    $3.15 Popular entry point for grinders
    $10.50 Serious competition level
    $31.50 High stakes, high rewards

    It’s rare to find something that caters to this many player types in one format. That’s a big part of the appeal. You can warm up at the $0.11 tables, then take a swing at $10.50 during your lunch break.

    Mobile Players Finally Get a Tournament Worth Their Time

    Here’s the kicker: Lightning PKOs fit perfectly with ACR Poker’s mobile app.

    A lot of players skip tournaments because they don’t want to stare at a screen for hours, especially on the go. This setup flips that whole thing around. You’re done in 45 minutes — maybe less if you’re knocked out early (hey, it happens).

    Whether you’re in an Uber or waiting for boarding at the airport, these tournaments actually make sense for mobile.

    One sentence here: It’s snack-sized poker with a full-meal payout.

    New Players Get a Sweet Welcome on Top

    If you’re new to ACR Poker, now might be a solid time to give it a spin. They’re running a deposit bonus that matches your first deposit 100% up to $2,000.

    That’s double your money, up to two grand.

    No small print here — just a big fat bonus for jumping in. And yes, you can use that bonus bankroll to enter Lightning PKOs and potentially build it up even faster.

    Imagine turning a $0.53 buy-in into a few hundred bucks in under an hour. Not common, sure — but not impossible either, especially with the bounty factor.

    Poker is Changing — ACR is Betting Fast is the Future

    It’s not just about “faster” for the sake of it. ACR Poker seems to be tapping into something bigger — attention spans are shorter, schedules are tighter, but the hunger for action is still there.

    The long, slow tournament model has its place, but the surge of formats like Lightning PKOs could hint at where online poker is headed.

    It’s poker that respects your time. Doesn’t waste it. Doesn’t drag. You get in, throw some punches, grab some bounties, and get on with your day.

  • The Quiet Battle Over Cheating in Poker: Who’s Really Watching the Tables?

    The Quiet Battle Over Cheating in Poker: Who’s Really Watching the Tables?

  • From Finance Cubicle to Final Tables: David Coleman’s Rise in the Poker World

    From Finance Cubicle to Final Tables: David Coleman’s Rise in the Poker World

  • A Bluff for the Books: Cody Wiegmann’s Daring River Shove Forces a Fold from the Chip Leader

    A Bluff for the Books: Cody Wiegmann’s Daring River Shove Forces a Fold from the Chip Leader

    The hand started quietly enough—just another small blind versus big blind confrontation on the surface. But it didn’t take long before chips were flying, hearts were pounding, and two poker warriors found themselves toe-to-toe in a brutal psychological battle for millions of chips and a shot at the title.

    With the blinds at 100,000-200,000 and a 200,000 big blind ante, Dan Stavila—sitting on a comfortable chip lead—opened from the small blind to 600,000. Cody Wiegmann, from the big blind, made the call. That was the easy part.

    What came next was a showcase of fearless aggression, cold reads, and the kind of nerve only high-stakes final tables can inspire.

    The Flop: Opportunity in Disguise

    The flop came down dry: a ragged set of cards that didn’t help either player in any meaningful way. But poker isn’t just about what you hold—it’s about what you can represent.

    Stavila, holding Q♣4♣, had connected with the bottom card for a weak pair. It was hardly a hand to write home about, especially with no immediate straight or flush draw. He checked.

    Wiegmann, with J♦10♠, had missed entirely. Still, he smelled weakness and pounced with a 350,000 chip bet—a relatively modest stab into a pot that had already crept to 1.4 million.

    Stavila didn’t flinch. Call.

    The Turn: More Heart, Less Clarity

    The turn card added a second heart to the board and paired the middle card from the flop. While neither player’s hand improved, the texture got trickier. There were now more draws, more possibilities.

    Wiegmann sensed that and continued with another bet—700,000 this time. Not too big, not too small. Just enough to keep the pressure on without risking it all.

    Stavila, again, called. His bottom pair still held some value, and he wasn’t ready to give it up. The pot swelled to 3.5 million. Wiegmann, now left with just 2.3 million behind, had no more room to play coy.

    The River: A Bold Move at the Brink

    And then came the river—a meaningless 9♠. Neither player improved. Stavila checked for a third time.

    Then it happened.

    Wiegmann paused, stared at the chips in front of him, then at Stavila. A minute passed. Maybe more. Finally, he shoved his entire stack into the pot—2.3 million chips, a bet that represented nearly one-third of Stavila’s stack.

    The room went still.

    Stavila’s Dilemma: Hero Call or Let It Go?

    This was not just another decision.

    Stavila had every reason to call. He had a chip lead, a pair, and enough information to guess Wiegmann was light. But that’s the thing about poker—it’s easy to second-guess yourself when the stakes are sky high.

    His opponent had just pushed in his whole stack on a board that had run out dry. Was it value? Was it desperation? Or was it brilliance?

    Two minutes ticked by. Stavila didn’t move. Didn’t speak. Just stared.

    Then, finally, he let it go. Mucked his cards and conceded the pot.

    Who Really Won the Hand?

    Stavila technically lost that hand, but the fold allowed him to preserve his chip advantage. He still had enough firepower to take control of the match later on and eventually secure the win.

    Still, Wiegmann’s bluff was a moment. A serious moment.

    Here was a player with nothing—absolutely nothing—but the courage to send his last bullets into a pot against the chip leader on a final table stage. And he got it through.

    Let’s break down just how bold this really was:

    • Preflop: Stavila had Q-4 suited, Wiegmann J-10 offsuit. Slight edge, nothing major.

    • Flop: Stavila made bottom pair. Wiegmann completely missed.

    • Turn: No improvement for either. Wiegmann kept pressing.

    • River: Dead card. All-in bluff. Fold achieved.

    Wiegmann turned 0% equity into a 3.5 million-chip pot with nothing but willpower.

    One Move That Shifted the Balance

    The impact was immediate.

    Before the hand, Stavila had a huge chip lead. Afterward, Wiegmann had closed the gap, trailing by just nine big blinds. That’s a significant shift with only three players left.

    Let’s put the numbers in context:

    Player Stack Before Hand Stack After Hand Change
    Dan Stavila ~10,000,000 ~7,500,000 -2,500,000
    Cody Wiegmann ~3,000,000 ~5,300,000 +2,300,000

    Not only did Wiegmann boost his stack by 77%, but he also reminded the table—especially Stavila—that he wasn’t going anywhere without a fight.

    Final Result: Glory and Grit

    Despite losing this iconic hand, Stavila would bounce back. He adjusted, stayed calm, and ultimately claimed the title. First-place prize: $167,067. Wiegmann, for all his boldness, finished second, taking home $120,054.

    Still, the hand that people were talking about wasn’t the last one. It was that river shove. That stone-cold bluff. That pulse-raising, chip-swinging moment that reminded everyone just how brutal—and beautiful—poker can be.

    A lesser player might’ve folded preflop. Another might’ve checked the flop, given up on the turn. But Wiegmann? He went for it. All of it. And it worked.