GGPoker has made another significant move within the poker world, as its parent company, NSUS Group, Inc., has acquired a stake in the renowned Hustler Casino Live show. This acquisition follows the purchase of the World Series of Poker (WSOP) by NSUS Group, which bought the prestigious brand from Caesars Entertainment for $500 million in a deal completed in October 2024. The stake in Hustler Casino Live was purchased from co-founder Nick Vertucci, who stepped down as co-owner in October following sexual harassment allegations made by a player.
Feldman Takes on Expanded Role
Ryan Feldman, who co-founded the show with Vertucci in August 2021, will continue his leadership role, though with expanded responsibilities. He told PokerNews that while the acquisition won’t change his core duties, he will now be taking on more business-related tasks that Vertucci previously handled. Feldman mentioned that GGPoker plans to take a hands-off approach when it comes to the day-to-day operations of the show, leaving him in charge of producing the episodes, arranging lineups, and overseeing the show’s routine activities.
GGPoker’s Growing Influence
The move further cements GGPoker’s growing influence in the poker industry, especially following its landmark acquisition of the WSOP. GGPoker, known for its association with big-name pros like Daniel Negreanu and Fedor Holz, continues to expand its reach, solidifying its position as a key player in both online poker and live-streamed events. Hustler Casino Live, which is already the most-watched livestream in poker history, will likely see more enhancements in the future due to GGPoker’s involvement.
The show has weathered controversies, such as the Robbi-Garrett scandal and Vertucci’s departure, while continuing to deliver unforgettable moments. Highlights include the 2022 “MrBeast Game” and the 2023 $1 million minimum buy-in cash game, as well as the largest pot ever in livestream poker, with Tom Dwan winning $3.1 million in May 2023. Some of the biggest poker names, including Dwan, Phil Ivey, Phil Hellmuth, and Garrett Adelstein, have all competed on Hustler Casino Live.
The Show’s New Chapter
As the show enters this new phase, it will continue without Vertucci, who had not only co-owned the show but was also a fixture in its games. Feldman and Vertucci initially teamed up in 2021 after Feldman was let go from his position as producer of the rival livestream Live at the Bike. The partnership quickly gained traction, winning Global Poker Awards and attracting a massive audience. Hustler Casino Live’s YouTube channel now boasts over 370,000 subscribers and regularly garners 10,000 or more concurrent viewers.
Despite the changes, Feldman emphasized that the partnership with GGPoker will not immediately alter the livestream’s format. However, he anticipates the long-term impact will be significant, particularly with the backing of a major force in the industry. “It gives us more legitimacy and strengthens our global reach,” Feldman said, reflecting on how GGPoker’s involvement will elevate the show.
A Possible Daniel Negreanu Appearance?
One of the most intriguing possibilities now that GGPoker is involved is whether Daniel Negreanu, a longtime GGPoker ambassador, will finally play on the show. Feldman has always had a strong relationship with Negreanu but noted that the poker star typically prefers staying in Vegas and isn’t particularly drawn to cash games. However, with GGPoker’s involvement, Feldman sees a better chance of Negreanu making an appearance in Los Angeles, something the pro confirmed in a recent statement.
“You don’t see me playing high-stakes poker on streams much anymore, but I’m ready to return to the felt for this epic cash game stream,” said Negreanu, hinting at his willingness to make a comeback for Hustler Casino Live.
Although the financial details of the acquisition weren’t disclosed, the partnership between NSUS Group and Hustler Casino Live marks the beginning of a new era for both entities. The show is poised to continue growing its legacy in the poker world with even more excitement in the years to come.
Source: https://www.pokernews.com/news/2022/07/ggpoker-buys-hustler-casino-live-47796.htm
Feldman Takes on Expanded Role
Ryan Feldman, who co-founded the show with Vertucci in August 2021, will continue his leadership role, though with expanded responsibilities. He told PokerNews that while the acquisition won’t change his core duties, he will now be taking on more business-related tasks that Vertucci previously handled. Feldman mentioned that GGPoker plans to take a hands-off approach when it comes to the day-to-day operations of the show, leaving him in charge of producing the episodes, arranging lineups, and overseeing the show’s routine activities.
GGPoker’s Growing Influence
The move further cements GGPoker’s growing influence in the poker industry, especially following its landmark acquisition of the WSOP. GGPoker, known for its association with big-name pros like Daniel Negreanu and Fedor Holz, continues to expand its reach, solidifying its position as a key player in both online poker and live-streamed events. Hustler Casino Live, which is already the most-watched livestream in poker history, will likely see more enhancements in the future due to GGPoker’s involvement.
The show has weathered controversies, such as the Robbi-Garrett scandal and Vertucci’s departure, while continuing to deliver unforgettable moments. Highlights include the 2022 “MrBeast Game” and the 2023 $1 million minimum buy-in cash game, as well as the largest pot ever in livestream poker, with Tom Dwan winning $3.1 million in May 2023. Some of the biggest poker names, including Dwan, Phil Ivey, Phil Hellmuth, and Garrett Adelstein, have all competed on Hustler Casino Live.
The Show’s New Chapter
As the show enters this new phase, it will continue without Vertucci, who had not only co-owned the show but was also a fixture in its games. Feldman and Vertucci initially teamed up in 2021 after Feldman was let go from his position as producer of the rival livestream Live at the Bike. The partnership quickly gained traction, winning Global Poker Awards and attracting a massive audience. Hustler Casino Live’s YouTube channel now boasts over 370,000 subscribers and regularly garners 10,000 or more concurrent viewers.
Despite the changes, Feldman emphasized that the partnership with GGPoker will not immediately alter the livestream’s format. However, he anticipates the long-term impact will be significant, particularly with the backing of a major force in the industry. “It gives us more legitimacy and strengthens our global reach,” Feldman said, reflecting on how GGPoker’s involvement will elevate the show.
A Possible Daniel Negreanu Appearance?
One of the most intriguing possibilities now that GGPoker is involved is whether Daniel Negreanu, a longtime GGPoker ambassador, will finally play on the show. Feldman has always had a strong relationship with Negreanu but noted that the poker star typically prefers staying in Vegas and isn’t particularly drawn to cash games. However, with GGPoker’s involvement, Feldman sees a better chance of Negreanu making an appearance in Los Angeles, something the pro confirmed in a recent statement.
“You don’t see me playing high-stakes poker on streams much anymore, but I’m ready to return to the felt for this epic cash game stream,” said Negreanu, hinting at his willingness to make a comeback for Hustler Casino Live.
Although the financial details of the acquisition weren’t disclosed, the partnership between NSUS Group and Hustler Casino Live marks the beginning of a new era for both entities. The show is poised to continue growing its legacy in the poker world with even more excitement in the years to come.
Source: https://www.pokernews.com/news/2022/07/ggpoker-buys-hustler-casino-live-47796.htm
