The four-time WSOP bracelet winner believes the high roller circuit is fake
Mike Matusow has sparked controversy within the poker community by questioning the authenticity of the high roller scene. The four-time World Series of Poker (WSOP) bracelet winner described the high roller circuit as “fake” and referred to the impressive six- and seven-figure cashes as a “mirage.” Matusow believes that many players in this space may not be as financially successful as they appear, prompting him to poll his X (formerly Twitter) followers about the true financial status of high rollers.
According to Matusow’s poll, a significant 30% of respondents believe that a large portion of high roller players—around 80%—are either broke or deeply in debt to their backers. This opinion resonates with Matusow’s claim that the reported lifetime earnings on platforms like Hendon Mob don’t account for losses, travel expenses, or action sold to backers.
Matusow himself has admitted to selling 50% of his action in tournaments with buy-ins of $10,000 or higher, a common practice among high rollers to share the financial risk and mitigate potential losses.
Matusow’s comments drew criticism from some within the poker community, with professional player Patrick Leonard pushing back against Matusow’s assertion. Leonard accused him of spreading an “incorrect” narrative and claimed that Matusow’s view was based on misinformation.
However, Matusow’s opinion isn’t isolated. Daniel Negreanu, another prominent figure in the poker world, has also shared similar sentiments about the high roller circuit, arguing that many pros playing in high-stakes events are likely to sell action or swap equity, which can distort the actual financial success of players.
The debate has sparked further discussions about the transparency of high roller earnings and whether public tournament results truly reflect the financial realities behind the scenes. While Matusow’s critical stance challenges the perceived glamour of high-stakes poker, it also raises important questions about the true nature of success in this elite segment of the game.
