World Series of Poker 2025: records, surprises, and rising stars in Las Vegas

The 56th edition of the World Series of Poker is entering its most exciting phase, as hundreds of professionals and amateurs from around the globe gather in Las Vegas to chase one of the iconic gold bracelets. This year’s tournament series has already broken records in terms of participation and prize pools.

The $10,000 Main Event, the most prestigious poker tournament in the world, is expected to attract more than 10,000 players and may generate a total prize pool exceeding $90 million. Early event winners have already taken home six-figure payouts, even in tournaments with relatively low buy-ins.

Several new names have emerged as champions this year, while established poker legends continue to cement their legacies with additional bracelet wins. Controversies have also surfaced, including technical issues with chip counts and disputes over rulings.

A notable innovation this year is the introduction of thematic events like “Battle of the Ages,” pitting players from different generations against each other in a hybrid format. Player of the Year rankings are starting to take shape, with a small group of top performers pulling ahead.

As the Main Event heads toward its final days, the global poker community is focused on Las Vegas. In the coming weeks, we’ll learn not only who the new world champion will be, but also which trends will shape the future of live tournament poker.

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Las Vegas Sphere Brings “The Wizard of Oz” to Life in Full Immersive Glory

Las Vegas is redefining immersive entertainment with “The Wizard of Oz Experience” at the groundbreaking Sphere venue. The venue combines 360° LED screens, 3D audio, and motion-sensitive seats to deliver a multisensory journey through Oz.

This show, developed with MGM Studios and augmented reality pioneers, lets guests feel tornado winds, hear directional audio, and even smell the poppy fields—all in real time.

The 90-minute spectacle is more than a show—it’s a technological leap in experiential tourism. Sphere’s goal is to host at least 50 immersive events annually, positioning itself as the new frontier of entertainment in Las Vegas.

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WSOP 2025: a record-breaking edition between Las Vegas and innovation

The 56th edition of the World Series of Poker has kicked off with unprecedented momentum. From May 27 to July 16, Las Vegas has once again become the global capital of poker, with two iconic venues – the Horseshoe and Paris Las Vegas – welcoming thousands of players from around the world.

This year, over 100 gold bracelet events are scheduled, setting a new record in WSOP history. From low buy-ins of $300 to high roller events at $250,000, there is something for everyone – from seasoned professionals to dream-chasing amateurs.

Among the most anticipated events:

• The Mystery Millions ($1,000 buy-in), featuring hidden bounties worth up to $1 million.

• The traditional casino employees event, symbolizing the series’ inclusiveness.

• The legendary $10,000 Main Event, still the crown jewel of global poker.

Technology is also playing a key role this year: the new WSOP+ app has made it easier than ever to register, view the full schedule, and check live leaderboards. Online satellites have allowed thousands of players to qualify straight from their devices.

Official streaming on dedicated platforms has brought worldwide attention to the biggest moments and dramatic final tables, opening up the event to an ever-growing, passionate audience.

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Planet Hollywood in Las Vegas opens new poker room

With less than two weeks until cards are in the air at the 56th annual World Series of Poker, Caesars Entertainment is gearing up for a summer full of poker play with the opening of a new poker room on the Las Vegas Strip. With epic food, relaxing spa treatments and dynamic poker rooms, Caesars has everything needed to give poker players coming to town for the WSOP an elevated experience they can’t find anywhere else.

Shuffle Up and Deal

Today, the PH Poker Room, adjacent to Reflections, The Spa at Planet Hollywood Las Vegas on the mezzanine level of the resort, officially opened and began hosting its first poker games. Caesars Entertainment leadership and the general manager of the Poker Room were on hand to celebrate the first deal.

“With just 18 days from the first deal of World Series of Poker, we are raising the stakes by bringing the energy and excitement of tournament-style poker back to Planet Hollywood,” said Ken Ostempowski, SVP and General Manager of the resort. “Today, we are opening our newest poker room, PH Poker Room, an addition that will amplify the already incredible offerings we have for the thousands of poker players coming to our resorts throughout the summer.”

The 24-hour Poker Room spans 4,800 square feet and includes 23 poker tables – 12 for cash games and 11 for tournament play.

For additional poker play, the World Series of Poker Hall of Fame Poker Room at Horseshoe Las Vegas features 18 custom poker tables with upscale furniture and equipment to offer players an elevated gaming experience as well as a permanent exhibit to honor the legends of the sport.

Feast and Compete

Playing intense poker games can work up an appetite. Jack Binion’s Steak at Horseshoe Las Vegas will offer a legendary food challenge fit for the legendary tournament. Available Thursday, 29 May through Saturday, 12 July, the JB’s Callin’ Your Bluff Challenge includes a 32-ounce Prime Rib roasted to perfection with red wine balsamic roasted onions, roasted carrot garnish, horseradish and au jus, a 1-pound Idaho Russet Potato with six shots that include traditional toppings and a Chocolate Layer Cake with pretzel streusel and Bourbon white chocolate sauce. Challengers have 20 minutes to complete the meal. If it is finished in the time allotted, the meal is free. If not completed, the meal costs $149.99. The challenge is for a single person, and all food must be consumed from the plate.

For those looking for a slightly less ambitious meal, the 4-of-a-Kind Burger at Guy Fieri’s Flavortown Sports Kitchen at Horseshoe Las Vegas is the perfect burger, especially for those about to play their next hand. The burger includes two slices of crispy bacon, SMC (super melty cheese), Fiery dragon’s breath chili, tender smoked brisket and crunchy fried onions on a garlic-buttered brioche bun. Guests can indulge on this burger from Tuesday, 27 May through the end of World Series of Poker for $34.99.

Poker Faces and Perfect Hands

Players can relax and recharge between tournaments at Voie Spa & Salon at Paris Las Vegas. The Voie Customized Facial for $165 uses marine ingredients found along the coast of France to cleanse and restore the skin. This facial will offer the perfect, refreshed poker face, ensuring no opponent will catch any bluffs all tournament long.

The Voie Manicure for $65 includes a vanilla sugar scrub and hydrating moisturizer that will give anyone the perfect hand before hitting the tables.

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Las Vegas celebrates 120th birthday

Las Vegas celebrated its 120th birthday, as dignitaries and special guests came together to commemorate the destination’s incredible journey from a small railroad stop in the desert to the world-renowned Sports and Entertainment Capital of the World.

Sphere’s iconic exterior LED screen – the world’s largest – lit up with its beloved emoji Orbi. Since its debut, Orbi has become a global phenomenon and had the honor of blowing out birthday candles on marquees across the destination, concluding with special birthday messages on Resorts World Las Vegas and Fremont Street Experience’s Viva Vision. Orbi™ has become part of the Las Vegas community, sweating through a heat wave, waking up with a daily cup of coffee and putting its party hat on every Friday and Saturday night.

To celebrate the milestone, a panel discussion took place at the Legacy Club at Circa Resort & Casino. Industry leaders and dignitaries reflected on Las Vegas’s evolution into a world-renowned tourism destination and shared personal stories, cherished memories, and unforgettable moments that have shaped the city's legacy.

Participants included:

- Aaron Berger, executive director of The Neon Museum
- Las Vegas Mayor Shelley Berkley
- Jim Gibson, Clark County Commissioner and Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority (LVCVA) board chair
- Steve Hill, president and CEO of the LVCVA
- David Schwartz, UNLV professor and gaming historian
- Andrew Simon, president and CEO of Fremont Street Experience
- Derek Stevens, owner and CEO of Circa Resort & Casino

The celebration included a stunning, custom-designed five-foot-five-inch birthday cake crafted and designed by Freed's Bakery, a long-time Las Vegas pastry shop. Paying tribute to the city's vibrant history, the multi-tiered showpiece highlighted iconic eras—from the legendary Rat Pack days to the glitz of Glitter Gulch and the golden age of Vegas entertainment.

The celebration ended with Steve Hill's champagne toast honoring Las Vegas's rich history, evolution, and exciting future.

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MGM Grand Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas announces $300 million room and suite remodel

LAS VEGAS - MGM Grand Hotel & Casino Las Vegas is revealing details surrounding its $300 million remodel encompassing all of the hotel's 4,212 rooms and suites within its main tower. The transformation, which is slated for completion in December 2025, is set to enhance the overall guest experience with modern, sophisticated design elements inspired by the flair of the disco era. The remodeled rooms will join a vibrant lineup of new dining and entertainment experiences set to open at MGM Grand later this year.

"MGM Grand has long been recognized as the center of entertainment and excitement in Las Vegas and these newly remodeled rooms, coupled with new attractions on the horizon, demonstrate our commitment to evolving the guest experience for both leisure and business travelers," said Mike Neubecker, President & COO of MGM Grand. "These new rooms are a significant milestone in the property's evolution as MGM Grand positions itself for the exciting developments set for the south end of The Strip."

The first phase of the main tower's newly remodeled rooms will be available for reservation beginning 1 March 2025.

These new rooms and suites add to the diverse collection of remodeled accommodations available at MGM Grand, including the 700-room Studio Tower which was completed in 2022.

Room Design Highlights

Designed by global architecture firm Gensler, in partnership with MGM Resorts Design & Development, the main tower remodel draws inspiration from the glamour of the disco era, seamlessly combined with modern elements to create an atmosphere that is both playful and elegant. Bold artwork and dynamic patterns will take guests on a journey through time, celebrating the resort's rich history and legacy of excitement and entertainment, while embracing its forward-looking vision.

The remodeled guest rooms are thoughtfully designed to meet the evolving needs of contemporary travelers by blending functionality, comfort and style. Bathrooms are upgraded with spacious walk-in showers with sleek glass enclosures and bright porcelain finishes creating a serene, spa-like ambiance. Integrated closets, complete with mirrored, illuminated interiors, will maximize storage and streamline the room's layout for effortless organization. Enhanced blackout drapery will eliminate light for a restful sleep, complemented by brighter materials for a more spacious feel. Wall-mounted TVs will free up valuable surface space and minibar units will now include separate guest-use refrigerators for added convenience.

King Rooms will feature rich walnut wood finishes, warm gray textured wall coverings and vibrant carpet designs. Meanwhile, Queen Rooms will showcase lighter gray stone finishes, vertical sconce accents and tailored headboards, providing a spacious and sophisticated retreat. Upgraded media consoles across all rooms will feature a striking starburst wood pattern, enhancing the overall aesthetic. For added guest convenience, charging stations with USB, USB-C and traditional outlets will be conveniently located on both sides of the bed, while Smart TVs will elevate the in-room entertainment experience.

New Selection of Suites

With this remodel, MGM Grand will add 111 suites to its main tower for a total of 753, ranging in size from 675 to 2,572 square feet.

These newly designed suites will feature a refined blend of dark ebony and walnut wood finishes, accentuated by lighter tones and sheer roller shades that create a brighter, more inviting atmosphere. The livable entertainment areas will include comfortable sectionals and lenticular artwork that transforms based on the viewer's perspective. Bathrooms in the suites will also be fully remodeled, offering double mirrors and new showers. Suite upgrades include reconfigured layouts with enhanced privacy, multi-functional spaces for work and entertainment, and elevated finishes like quartz bathroom benches and illuminated mirrors.

Artwork

Original artwork will play an important role in the design, with each room and corridor featuring unique pieces that reflect the past, present and future of MGM Grand. Throughout the corridors, guests will be greeted by artwork that tells a story of exploration and self-discovery, including LED art pieces reminiscent of the vibrant disco era. The floral and dreamy patterns of the carpet, along with light wood wall coverings, will create a warm welcome to the newly remodeled rooms.

New Resort Experiences

In addition to the hotel's newly designed rooms and suites, MGM Grand is introducing several new dining venues and attractions, enriching the fully integrated resort experience and furthering its legacy as a premier entertainment destination. Developments include the early 2025 opening of Netflix Bites, featuring cuisine inspired by hit Netflix shows.

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Las Vegas rings in 2025 with official countdown by Sphere

LAS VEGAS - Las Vegas ushered in 2025 in spectacular fashion with “America’s Party,” an eight-minute pyrotechnic display from the rooftops of nine resorts spanning the Las Vegas Strip:

- Aria Resort & Casino

- Caesars Palace

- Fontainebleau Las Vegas

- MGM Grand Hotel & Casino Las Vegas

- Planet Hollywood Las Vegas

- Resorts World Las Vegas

- The STRAT Hotel, Casino and SkyPod

- TI – Treasure Island Hotel & Casino

- The Venetian Las Vegas

For the first time, Sphere served as Las Vegas’ official countdown to the new year with a custom content show that counted down to midnight on the Exosphere, the world’s largest LED screen.

Positioning Las Vegas as a global destination and Sphere as a global landmark, this countdown was the culmination of Sphere’s “New Year’s Eve Celebration,” which celebrated major cities around the world as different time zones approached midnight.

New Year’s Eve visitation to Las Vegas was anticipated to be upward of 340,000 visitors.

Facts about “America’s Party” 2025:

- This is Las Vegas’ 24th presentation of “America’s Party,” continuing a tradition that started in 2000.

- The show takes Fireworks by Grucci the entire year to plan and choreograph.

- This year’s theme was “Making Vegas Memories,” and the red, blue, yellow, and silver colors symbolized the city’s energy and dynamic spirit.

- It takes five days to install the pyrotechnics on the nine (9) rooftops.

- More than 3,795 manhours were spent on the installation process.

- The crew consisted of 71 pyrotechnicians and staff and 90 additional security personnel on the rooftops.

- Fireworks by Grucci has produced 20 of the 24 shows, including the last 18 in a row.

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World Series of Poker returns to Las Vegas Strip in May 2025

World Series of Poker and Caesars Entertainment, Inc. unveiled the dates for the upcoming 2025 World Series of Poker, which returns for a fourth consecutive year to the Horseshoe Las Vegas and Paris Las Vegas on the Las Vegas Strip. The series will run from 27 May to 16 July, with poker’s undisputed world championship, also known as the “Main Event,” beginning on 2 July. The Main Event Final Table will occur 15-16 July inside the Horseshoe Events Center.

Ty Stewart, Chief Executive Officer of WSOP, said, “Each year allows us to refine further and improve the WSOP offering, and 2025 will be no exception. Expect the biggest poker events on the planet, the best action and the most intense competition as we once again welcome tens of thousands of poker enthusiasts eager to experience the magic of the WSOP.”

“As the calendar flips to 2025, we’re looking forward to inviting the global poker community back to the iconic Las Vegas Strip for the 56th annual World Series of Poker.” added Jack Effel, Senior Vice President of Poker Operations at Caesars Entertainment. “Building on last year’s triumphs and familiar faces winning WSOP bracelets, we are excited to see who will expand their legacy or become a new legend by passing poker’s ultimate test in the game’s most iconic arena.”

The full daily event schedule for the 56th annual WSOP will be announced in early 2025. Fan favorites, including the Mystery Millions, Millionaire Maker, and the Senior’s Championship, are set to return to the schedule along with some new, exciting tournament formats. Reduced room rates will be available across Caesars Entertainment’s Las Vegas resorts for the series by visiting www.caesars.com and using promo code WSOP25. Players and guests should stay tuned to WSOP social media channels and WSOP.com for updates on the 2025 WSOP.

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Guest wins over $1 million at The Venetian Las Vegas

On Thursday, 21 November, during Big Race Weekend, a guest who wished to remain anonymous was playing Dragon Link by Aristocrat Gaming in the high limit gaming lounge on The Palazzo casino floor at The Venetian Las Vegas. The guest won the Grand Jackpot of $1,027,980 after placing a $50 bet.

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The Venetian Las Vegas awards $1.2 million slot jackpot

On Monday, 11 November, a guest who wished to remain anonymous was playing $1 Million Dragon Link by Aristocrat Gaming in the high limit gaming lounge on The Palazzo casino floor at The Venetian Las Vegas. They won the Grand Jackpot for $1,218,840 from a $50 bet.

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MGM Resorts and Marriott to bring W Las Vegas to the Strip

MGM Resorts International and Marriott International, Inc. announced plans to convert an iconic property on the Las Vegas Strip to the W Hotels brand within the Marriott Bonvoy portfolio, continuing the brand's storied evolution. Anticipated to complete its conversion later this year, W Las Vegas marks the latest step in the companies' long-term strategic licensing agreement announced in July 2023.

"Our relationship with Marriott has far exceeded our expectations, demonstrating the power of its brand portfolio and the strength of their distribution channels," said Steve Zanella, President of MGM Resorts Operations. "W Las Vegas, the latest hotel to come to life as part of our collaboration, will allow our guests to access a new luxury lifestyle experience recognized worldwide for its distinct personality, dynamic programming and elevated service culture."

"We're thrilled to continue working with MGM to bring W Las Vegas to the legendary Las Vegas Strip," said Leeny Oberg, Marriott International Chief Financial Officer and EVP, Development. "This agreement is a pivotal moment in our collaboration, which continues to expand hospitality and entertainment offerings for guests. As a luxury brand rooted in bold design and nightlife, W Hotels is well-positioned to elevate experiences for travelers in this destination."

Since MGM Collection with Marriott Bonvoy officially launched in March 2024, bookings are significantly outpacing anticipated projections with hundreds of thousands of room nights booked. This collaboration between two trusted hospitality brands means more than 200 million Marriott Bonvoy members can enjoy unique benefits and redeem points at MGM Resorts' destinations while MGM Rewards members can status match and receive member benefits at Marriott's global portfolio of approximately 9,000 properties.

Located on the Mandalay Bay Campus, the property is slated to officially join the W Hotels portfolio later this year, with additional plans for the property to be announced in the future.

With the addition of W Las Vegas, MGM Collection with Marriott Bonvoy will encompass 12 destinations on the Las Vegas Strip, including Bellagio, a Luxury Collection Resort & Casino, ARIA Resort & Casino, Autograph Collection, The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas, Autograph Collection, and Mandalay Bay Resort & Casino, MGM Collection, among others.

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Paris Las Vegas pays out massive poker win

LAS VEGAS - One lucky visitor scored a big win at Paris Las Vegas on Saturday, 19 October, hitting an incredible jackpot of $312,996. Michel M., hailing from Vancouver, Washington, was playing Pai Gow Poker when he hit a Seven Card Straight Flush on the Mega Progressive Jackpot. The elated player plans to play more golf with his wins as well as share them with his wife.

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Casino DMA welcomes new board member

The Casino Direct Marketing Association, the leading association dedicated to marketing professionals within the casino industry, is pleased to announce the appointment of Joshua Le Duff, vice president of marketing for Pala Casino Spa and Resort, to the board of directors.

Joshua Le Duff, a respected marketing leader, brings a wealth of experience in the gaming and hospitality sectors to the Casino DMA board. With his extensive background in operator-side marketing, Le Duff is eager to bring new perspectives to the board. “I’m most excited about sharing my experience bringing practical application of new technologies to the board of directors and contributing to the ongoing success of the Casino DMA,” said Le Duff.

In conjunction with Le Duff’s appointment, Casino DMA has also made strategic appointments to its Education Committee, which plays a central role in shaping the organization’s initiatives to support member education and professional development.

Chad Hallert, chief marketing officer of Good Giant, has accepted the role of Education Committee Chairman. Hallert brings over 20 years of experience in digital strategy, brand development, and customer engagement to his new role, where he will lead efforts to develop cutting-edge educational programs for Casino DMA members.

Joining Hallert on the Education Committee is Richard Picard, director of advertising and communications for Cache Creek Casino Resort. With his expertise in integrated communications strategies and advertising, Picard will provide valuable insights into the evolving landscape of casino marketing.

Additionally, Steven Paci, president of The Pixel Side, has been appointed chairman of the Communications Committee. Paci, a seasoned digital and creative marketing expert, will guide the committee’s efforts in enhancing member engagement and advancing Casino DMA’s messaging.

Casino DMA Chairman Luigi Mastropietro, expressed his excitement about the new appointments: "We are thrilled to welcome Joshua to our board of directors and to announce these key additions to our Education and Communications Committees. Their extensive expertise and leadership will undoubtedly strengthen our efforts to foster growth and innovation within the casino marketing community."*

Linda Gordon, president of Casino DMA, added: "The future of Casino DMA has never looked brighter. With the leadership of Joshua, Chad, Richard, and Steven, we are positioned to expand our educational offerings and support marketing professionals at every stage of their careers. I am excited for what lies ahead and confident that their contributions will make a lasting impact on our industry."

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The Venetian Las Vegas to welcome roller-skating experience

Flipper’s World, The Venetian Las Vegas and Tao Group Hospitality will partner to bring the thrill of roller skating to the Las Vegas Strip destination this winter at TAO Beach Dayclub. Flipper’s Roller Boogie Palace at The Venetian Las Vegas will open in November and run through early 2025. The roller-skating experience will be open to all ages and will include special programming for 21 years of age and older.

Flipper’s World, co-founded by Liberty Ross and Kevin Wall in partnership with USHER, is a global lifestyle brand rooted in the joy of roller skating that creates skate-inspired apparel and immersive experiences across the world through its Flipper’s Roller Boogie Palace banner.

The 47,000-square-foot TAO Beach venue will feature a skating rink totaling 3,250 square feet covering the venue’s two pools. Roller skating will take place Thursday through Sunday from noon to 8 p.m. Guests may bring their own skates or rent them at the venue.

“We are thrilled to join forces with The Venetian Resort and Tao Group Hospitality as we take our proven experiential concept to Las Vegas for our first-ever Flipper’s Roller Boogie Palace winter residency,” said Flipper’s World CEO Eddie Bromberg and President Ariel Elazar Storch. “Flipper’s is known for creating inclusive spaces in sync with our vibrant community and curated line-up of top artists and DJs that bring the joy of roller skating alive - whether you are on skates, in sneakers, or just along for the party.”

“The Venetian Resort excels at creating lifetime experiences,” said Patrick Nichols, president and chief executive officer of The Venetian Resort Las Vegas. “Flipper’s Roller Boogie Palace at TAO Beach brings the nostalgic charm of roller skating to a setting unlike any other – a rooftop pool deck on the Las Vegas Strip. We’re excited to bring another unforgettable experience to the Las Vegas Strip.”

“We look forward to showcasing Flipper’s Roller Boogie Palace at TAO Beach this winter and allowing guests to enjoy the venue in an exciting new way, joining LAVO Party Brunch as one of our daytime winter offerings while also providing a new early evening destination,” added Jason Strauss, Co-CEO of Tao Group Hospitality. “This offering is another example of how we consistently set the bar for guest experiences by offering unforgettable entertainment backed by gracious hospitality with innovation and creativity at the core.”

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Styx to return to The Venetian Las Vegas

Legendary and multi-platinum rockers Styx are already starting to lock in shows for their 2025 tour schedule, which will once again include an unforgettable five-night engagement at The Venetian Theatre inside The Venetian Las Vegas. For the first time in their 50-plus career in Las Vegas, Styx will be performing 1977's “The Grand Illusion” in its entirety, along with the band’s classic hits. The shows will be held on 24, 25, 29, 31 January and 1 February 2025. All shows are scheduled to begin at 8:30 p.m.

Tickets start at $45, plus applicable fees, and will go on sale to the general public Friday, 20 September, at 10 a.m. PT. Tickets will be available for purchase at Ticketmaster.com, VenetianLasVegas.com, any box office at The Venetian Resort, or by calling 702.414.9000 or 866.641.7469.

Citi is the official card of Styx’s exclusive Las Vegas engagement at The Venetian Las Vegas. Citi cardmembers will have access to pre-sale tickets beginning Tuesday, 17 September, at 10 a.m. PT until Thursday, 19 September, at 10 p.m. PT through the Citi Entertainment program.

Styx fan club members will have access to a pre-sale beginning Wednesday, 18 September, at 10 a.m. PT. Venetian Rewards members, as well as Live Nation and Ticketmaster customers, will receive access to a pre-sale beginning Thursday, 19 September, at 10 a.m. PT. All pre-sales will end Thursday, 19 September, at 10 p.m. PT.

“The Grand Illusion” is the biggest seller in the band’s catalog. It reached #6 on the Billboard “Top 200 Albums” chart, and spawned the smash hits "Come Sail Away," which reached #8 on Billboard’s “Hot 100” chart, and "Fooling Yourself (The Angry Young Man)," which made it to #29. The album has been certified triple Platinum by the RIAA, having sold over three million copies to date, and it was the first in the band’s groundbreaking string of releasing four multi-Platinum albums in a row.

The album’s iconic cover art by Alton Kelley and Stanley Mouse is modeled after Belgian surrealist René Magritte’s 1965 piece titled Le Blanc Seing, a.k.a. The Blank Check. “The album’s artwork has stood the test of time,” declares keyboardist/vocalist Lawrence Gowan. “It looks so engaging today, when I see that equestrian image mixed with the forest, the woman’s eyes, and the female face. It’s one of the great icons of rock history, and rock lore. I’m happy to see it continue to be celebrated.”

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Resorts World Las Vegas accused of allowing illegal gambling

Today, the Nevada Gaming Control Board filed a disciplinary complaint against Resorts World Las Vegas, LLC, and its parents and affiliate companies. The disciplinary action is the result of an extensive investigation by NGCB Enforcement Agents into alleged violations of the Nevada Gaming Control Act and Nevada Gaming Commission Regulations. The NGCB alleges that Resorts World failed to fulfill its responsibilities as the holder of a privileged Nevada gaming license. Resorts World's actions or inactions caused damage to the reputation of the State of Nevada and Nevada's gaming industry.

In the 31-page complaint, the NGCB details how agents uncovered a lack of compliance within Resorts World, which allowed a culture that welcomed certain individuals with suspected or actual ties to illegal bookmaking, histories of federal felony convictions related to illegal gambling businesses, and ties to organized crime. The complaint asserts that specified individuals were allowed to place millions of dollars in wagers at Resorts World over many months because Resorts World failed to adhere to its Anti-Money Laundering program. The culture within Resorts World created the perception, or the reality in certain instances, that Resorts World is an avenue to launder funds derived from illegal activity. The NGCB investigation revealed acceptance among Resorts World executives of a culture where information of suspicious or illegal activity is, at a minimum, negligently disregarded, or, at worst, willfully ignored for financial gain.

Suspected or known felons wagering at Resorts World included Matthew Bowyer, who pleaded guilty in federal court to operating an unlawful gambling business, money laundering, and subscribing to a false tax return; Edwin Ting, convicted in federal court of conducting an illegal gambling business, and known to have ties to organized crime; Chad Iwamoto, convicted in federal court of transmission of wagering information and failing to file monthly tax return for wages; and another individual suspected of being an illegal bookmaker.

Along with the primary complaint, a separate disciplinary complaint was filed against Nicole Bowyer, a registered independent agent who contracted with Resorts World. Ms. Bowyer is the wife of Matthew Bowyer, who pleaded guilty to federal crimes related to illegal bookmaking. As an independent agent under contract with Resorts World, Ms. Bowyer was allowed to directly profit from casino wagering by her husband and his friends at Resorts World. Consequently, Ms. Bowyer received payment from Resorts World despite surely knowing that her husband's source of funds derived, at least in part, from illegal activity. To date, Ms. Bowyer has failed to cooperate with the NGCB investigation.

"The Nevada Gaming Control Board is committed to protecting the State of Nevada, its citizens and visitors, and Nevada's vital gaming industry," said NGCB Chairman Kirk Hendricks. "All suspected violations of Nevada's gaming laws and regulations will be fully investigated and disciplinary action will be filed when warranted."

All respondents have rights pursuant to the Nevada Gaming Control Act, including time to answer the allegations, request a hearing before the NGC, or reach a stipulation settlement with the NGCB.

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Fontainebleau Las Vegas named to TIME Magazine's 'World’s Greatest

Fontainebleau Las Vegas, the newest luxury resort and casino to debut on the Las Vegas Strip, has achieved a historic milestone of landing a spot on TIME Magazine’s highly coveted list of “World’s Greatest Places 2024.” The recognition comes just eight months following the resort’s grand opening, with the esteemed publication solidifying Fontainebleau Las Vegas as the epicenter of luxury on the Strip.

“This accolade is a testament to our incredible MEMBERS and Fontainebleau Las Vegas’ commitment to luxury, sophistication, and extraordinary service,” says Fontainebleau Las Vegas President Maurice Wooden. “TIME’s ‘World’s Greatest Places’ list is a celebration of must-experience destinations around the globe, and it is an honor to be included.”

The “World’s Greatest Places 2024” list is comprised of 100 remarkable destinations to visit and stay. The list was compiled through nominations from TIME’s international correspondents and contributors along with an application process, and focuses on locations that offer new and exciting experiences.

Fontainebleau Las Vegas opened on December 13, 2023, and has been recognized as a leader in luxury hospitality by multiple publications, including Esquire’s The 41 Best New Hotels in North America and Europe 2024; Conde Nast Traveler’s The Best New Hotels in the United States: 2024 Hot List; and Travel & Leisure’s The 100 Best New Hotels of the Year.

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BetMGM Poker Classic returns to Aria in Las Vegas

BetMGM, a leading sports betting and iGaming operator, announced today it will be the presenting sponsor of the 2024 Aria Poker Classic in Las Vegas. The seven-week summer series will include the “BetMGM Poker Championship” scheduled 6-11 June 2024 at Aria Resort & Casino’s Poker Room. The no-limit hold’em tournament has a $3,500 buy-in and will offer participants a $3 million guarantee, an increase of $1 million from last year’s event.

“The BetMGM Poker Championship is all about creating excitement and more action for poker enthusiasts nationwide,” said Luke Staudenmaier, BetMGM’s Director of Poker. “Through online qualifiers where BetMGM is live, we are offering players more ways to win their way to Vegas and the opportunity to earn larger prize packages and guarantees. Our partnership with ARIA continues to get stronger, allowing us to build on the omnichannel poker experience.”

The BetMGM Poker Championship will feature two starting flights and more than 100 qualifiers from BetMGM Poker markets including New Jersey, Michigan, Pennsylvania, and Ontario. Online qualifiers are eligible to win poker packages that include a $3,500 BetMGM Poker Championship entry, an $1,100 Mystery Bounty entry, a five-night stay at ARIA from June 5-10, 2024, travel credit and a BetMGM swag bag.

Ryan Kirk, ARIA’s Director of Poker Operations, said, “Partnering with BetMGM for the BetMGM Poker Championship solidifies ARIA’s position as a global leader in tournament poker. We anticipate another record-breaking event this summer as we offer a $3 million guarantee and add more tournament tables.”

All main events for the BetMGM Poker Championship at ARIA are reported to the GPI Index and Hendon Mob.

As BetMGM continues to expand to new markets, responsible gambling education remains a key focus. BetMGM is proud to provide resources to help customers play responsibly including GameSense, an industry-leading program, developed and licensed to MGM Resorts by the British Columbia Lottery Corporation. Through the integration within BetMGM's mobile and desktop platforms, customers can receive the same GameSense experience they have grown to rely on at MGM Resorts properties nationwide. This complements BetMGM's already existing responsible gaming tools which serve to provide customers with an entertaining and safe digital experience.

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Massive Three Card Poker win at The Venetian Las Vegas

LAS VEGAS - On Friday, 10 May, Joseph Nardello from Connecticut was playing Three Card Poker at The Venetian Las Vegas when he was dealt a spade royal flush activating the mega tier of the Millionaire Progressive. Nardello made the $5 side bet making him eligible to win the mega tier of the resort’s Millionaire Progressive for $1,904,062. 

The Millionaire Progressive is available on multiple table games throughout The Venetian and The Palazzo casino floors including Ultimate Texas Hold’em, Three Card Poker, Let it Ride, Crazy 4 Poker and Mississippi Stud. The progressive was established in 2018 and has minted 14 updated millionaires since inception.

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Santhosh Suvarna wins largest pot in High Stakes Poker history

Season 12 of High Stakes Poker continues to wow. During the season's ninth episode that aired on Monday, 22 April 2024, exclusively on PokerGO, Santhosh Suvarna tangled with Andrew Robl in a pot that reached $992,000. Suvarna scooped the entire amount with a winning full house and hauled in the largest pot in High Stakes Poker's 12-season history.

High Stakes Poker, the most iconic poker cash game show, has seen numerous big pots over the years, but none resulted in a single winner as large as the $992,000 pot Suvarna pulled in.

The monumental hand took place at the PokerGO Studio in Las Vegas. The cash game had stakes of a $1,000 small blind, $2,000 big blind, and $2,000 big blind ante, plus there was a $4,000 straddle placed by Suvarna on this hand. Robl, a professional high-stakes poker player, overbet $300,000 into the $202,000 pot on the river. Suvarna, a successful businessman, had kings full of fours and moved all in for $395,000. Robl, holding fours full of kings, called for the extra $95,000 and saw the bad news that he was beat.

Season 12 of High Stakes Poker is airing now on PokerGO, with new episodes every Monday into May. PokerGO subscribers can also find every episode from past seasons of High Stakes Poker on demand on the PokerGO platform. New PokerGO subscribers can receive $20 off the first year of a new annual PokerGO subscription by using the code "HSP12" at sign-up. To subscribe, simply visit PokerGO.com or download PokerGO to your favorite device. PokerGO is available worldwide on Android phone, Android tablet, iPhone, iPad, Apple TV, Roku, and Amazon Fire TV. You can also stream PokerGO on any web or mobile browser by going to PokerGO.com.

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