WPT Signs Phil Ivey as Latest Ambassador; Steve Aoki Added to Wynn Meet-up Game Roster
As the World Poker Tour’s World Championship approaches, the company announced the signing of Phil Ivey on Tuesday. The Poker Hall of Famer becomes the tour’s latest ambassador as the WPT celebrates its 20th anniversary.
The news comes as the company continues ramping up even more events for December’s WPT World Championship at Wynn in Las Vegas. The championship event includes a $15 million guarantee and Ivey now becomes the latest headline in the run up to the event.
“WPT is one of the most respected brands in poker, and I’m honored to become a WPT ambassador,” Ivey said in a news release. “My commitment and passion toward 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.”
Adding Phil Ivey to the ambassador ranks
The addition of Ivey continues to grow the WPT’s ambassador stable. That has included the signings of poker vloggers Brad Owen and Andrew Neeme as well as DJ Steve Aoki.
Poker legend Doyle Brunson has also joined the ranks as an ambassador and will also appear at Neeme ad Owen’s meet-up cash game at the WPT World Championship at Wynn.
Ivey is now scheduled to be part of the World Championship festivities, participating in several events including the $10,400 main event. His participation also includes a fan experience on Dec. 10.
Ivey brings deep poker record
As one of the most recognized players in poker, Ivey has a deep poker record including on the WPT. He earned a spot on the Mike Sexton WPT Champions Cup by winning the LA Poker Classic in 2008 for $1.6 million. Ivey has nine other WPT final table appearances including a runner-up and two third-place finishes.
Along with his WPT success, Ivey also has 10 World Series of Poker bracelets. An 11th bracelet almost came his way this summer, when he finished runner-up in the $100,000 High Roller for $1.2 million. He also has two wins on the Triton Poker tour this year for $1.6 million.
Look forward to playing in the @WPT World Championship in December and being an Ambassador for @WPT pic.twitter.com/dGBzKAYEUl
— Phil Ivey (@philivey) November 9, 2022
In 2017, the 45-year-old poker pro originally from New Jersey was inducted into the Poker Hall of Fame. Ivey has almost $40 million in live tournament earnings and also played high stakes online poker throughout the poker boom of the 2000s.
“Phil Ivey is one of the greatest to ever have played the game of poker,” WPT CEO Adam Pliska said. “His career achievements and success as a frequent WPT final tablist underscores 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.”
Aoki joins WPT World Championship festivities 
In other news, the WPT recently announced DJ and ambassador Steve Aoki will be part of Neeme and Owen’s “Premier Meet-Up Game: WPT Poker Icons Experience.”
The event is set for Dec. 1 at the WPT World Championship in the Wynn Las Vegas poker room. The game also includes Brunson, Lynn Gilmartin, and other WPT talent and celebrities.
Even more is planned for Aoki. ClubWPT players can qualify for a one-table sit & go on Dec. 6 at his Las Vegas home. The prize includes a complete travel package as well.
ClubWPT is the tour’s subscription online poker service and players can win one of two $2,000 WPT packages via the WPT Steve Aoki Playhouse Game, set for Nov. 13.
“I can’t wait for the World Championship,” Aoki said. “I’m looking forward to playing some cards with the WPT crew and fans alike. The Premier Meet-Up Game is going to be an absolute blast, but I can’t lie – I’m really looking forward to having a sit & go at my crib.”
Lucky winners can expect a premier experience at Aoki’s house including a pool, foam pit, artwork, and a personalized poker table. Aoki has appeared in numerous WPT events throughout the year. On Dec. 8, he’ll also play in the $1,100 WPT Prime event as part of the World Championship festival.
“Steve’s presence at the WPT Poker Icons Experience is going to add a new level of excitement to an event already positioned to be one of the most fun community events of the year,” Pliska said. “Steve’s extensive involvement over the year has made our 20th anniversary truly transformational and player interaction with him has provided a great way to experience the new WPT.”