Phil Ivey, one of the most noted poker players in the history of professional poker, both offline and online, is currently being denied his winnings by a reputed casino in London according to the Daily Mail.
The Crockford’s Casino was visited by Phil Ivey and his female companion for a few days, during which the player managed to win several million at Punto Banco.
However, Crockford’s is unwilling to pay Ivey and is currently investigating the player.
According to Lance Bradley, the editor of Bluff Magazine, poker pro Phil Ivey has a spotless reputation in the gambling industry in regards to his skill and ethics at the poker tables.
There’s nothing in his past that would hint at his being a cheater or unethical in any way. People say he’s arguably the best poker player in the world; but, really, there’s no argument: He’s #1. He’s known both for his skill and for his love of high-stakes games. He loves anything where there’s some sexiness at stake.
Bradley also commented in regards to the London Casino which although does not have as spotless a reputation as Ivey, is also well known the gambling field. The Crockfords’ casino has delayed Ivey’s payment and has been looking into his play and gambling at the table to spot any signs of cheating. “I’m not sure. They’re earning themselves a ton of publicity—but it’s not the kind of publicity you want. When you withhold payment, people stop trusting you; they stop playing. Maybe it’s because with nearly $12 million involved they just want to make sure every ‘I’ has been dotted and every ‘T’ crossed. Phil’s going to get his money; they’re just making him wait,” said Bradley.
Ivey, whom many have described as the Tiger Woods of Poker and have even called the “best poker player in the world” is known to be exceptionally skilled. He is also known to have won millions while playing poker. As a result, it is not highly unbelievable that the player could have easily won millions playing at the casino.
Bradley also provided an explanation as to why the Crockfords’ casino would be doing such a thing. He said, “Casinos love high-rollers. But not high-rollers who win. Maybe they think if they make it less enjoyable for Phil Ivey, he won’t come back. Essentially, they’re firing their customer.”
