Phil Ivey Releases Statement
Published on June 1st, 2011 12:28 am EST
Earlier today, eyebrows were raised when Phil Ivey elected to skip the $25k Heads-up No Limit Hold'em event at the World Series of Poker. A few hours after the event got underway, a statement was released by Ivey via his official Facebook account. Here is what the statement said:
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"For many years, I have been proud to call myself a poker player. This great sport has taken me to places I only imagined going and I have been blessed with much success. It is therefore with deep regret that I believe I am compelled to release the following statement.
I am deeply disappointed and embarrassed that Full Tilt players have not been paid money they are owed. I am equally embarrassed that as a result many players cannot compete in tournaments and have suffered economic harm.
I am not playing in the World Series of Poker as I do not believe it is fair that I compete when others cannot. I am doing everything I can to seek a solution to the problem as quickly as possible.
My name and reputation have been dragged through the mud, through the inactivity and indecision of others and on behalf of all poker players I refuse to remain silent any longer. I have electronically filed a lawsuit against Tiltware related to the unsettled player accounts. As I am sure the public can imagine, this was not an easy decision for me.
I wholeheartedly refuse to accept non-action as to repayment of players funds and I am angered that people who have supported me throughout my career have been treated so poorly.
I sincerely hope this statement will ignite those capable of resolving the problems into immediate action and would like to clarify that until a solution is reached that cements the security of all players, both US and International, I will, as I have for the last six weeks, dedicate the entirety of my time and efforts to finding a solution for those who have been wronged by the painfully slow process of repayment."
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There was obvious skepticism regarding this statement (many people initially thought that the Facebook account had been hacked), but Wicked Chops Poker has confirmed through Ivey's manager that the statement is real.
So, the face of Full Tilt Poker is now suing Tiltware.
This is an unbelievable turn of events.. we'll continue to update as more news rolls in..
Source: Phil Ivey's Facebook Page
Photo: GreasieWheels.com
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Filed Under: Online Poker Rooms
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