The World Poker Tour has reached into its own storied past to redefine its future by naming famed poker pro Phil Ivey as its newest brand ambassador. Ivey, one of the game's most famous players, has amassed over $38 million in career tournament cashes, ranking ninth all-time, including a huge win at the 2008 WPT L.A. Poker Classic for nearly $1.6 million.
Ivey has made nine final tables in his WPT career among his 12 overall WPT cashes, and he'll now look to add more cashes and titles to his existing Tour success. More recently, the Poker Hall of Famer took down the 2021 $25,000 WPT Heads Up Championship for a $400,000 cash, topping another veteran pro, Patrik Antonius, in the final. Ivey is also widely known for his ten career World Series of Poker gold bracelets, which ties for second on the WSOP's all-time list.
“WPT is one of the most respected brands in poker, and I’m honored to become a WPT Ambassador,” said Ivey. “My commitment and passion towards poker has never been higher and I look forward to working with the WPT to showcase poker around the world, adding to its continued expansion.”
Ivey has represented numerous brands throughout his storied career, beginning with his years as one of several player-owners of the original Full Tilt Poker, which ceased operations in 2011. Ivey later represented Las Vegas's Aria casino, which for several years boasted a semi-private high-stakes table ceremonially titled the Ivey Room. Ivey has also been involved in numerous other high-profile business ventures over the years.
In joining the WPT, Ivey adds his personal brand recognition to a poker tour that's made several investments in poker personalities over the past couple of years. Ivey will debut as part of the WPT family during December's WPT World Championship Festival at Wynn Las Vegas. Ivey will play the $10,000 main event in addition to several other preliminary events. He'll also be featured in some special WPT promotional efforts, including what the WPT describes as an "exclusive off-the-felt experience" on December 10.
According to WPT CEO Adam Pliska, "Phil Ivey is one of the greatest to ever have played the game of poker. His career achievements and success as a frequent WPT final tablist underscore his deserving legacy as a true poker icon. As WPT celebrates its 20th-anniversary season, we have aligned the brand with talent and events that symbolize the very best in personal achievement. I cannot think of anyone who better represents that more than Phil, and I know players will appreciate the chance to interact with him at upcoming events."
Featured image source: Haley Hintze
