GGPoker is making waves again. The online poker giant’s parent company, NSUS Group, Inc., has taken over Nick Vertucci’s stake in Hustler Casino Live (HCL), further cementing its influence in the industry. Vertucci, who co-founded the popular livestreamed poker show, stepped down last October amid sexual harassment allegations.
Ryan Feldman Takes on a Bigger Role
Ryan Feldman, Vertucci’s former business partner, isn’t going anywhere. In fact, his role just got bigger.
“It doesn’t really impact my role. It just means that I’m doing more,” Feldman told PokerNews.
Previously, he focused on producing the show and putting together game lineups. Now, with Vertucci gone, he’s also handling the business side of things—tasks his former co-owner once managed. NSUS, while taking ownership, isn’t planning to interfere in daily operations. That means Feldman will continue to run things much as before, just with more responsibilities.
GGPoker’s Growing Poker Empire
GGPoker’s parent company, NSUS, is no stranger to major acquisitions. Last year, it completed a blockbuster $500 million deal to purchase the World Series of Poker (WSOP) from Caesars Entertainment. Now, by securing a stake in Hustler Casino Live, it’s extending its reach even further.
The move aligns with GGPoker’s aggressive expansion strategy. Backed by poker icons like Daniel Negreanu and Fedor Holz, the company has been dominating the online poker space. Adding a major live-streamed poker show into the mix could give it even more visibility and influence.
Hustler Casino Live’s Unmatched Popularity
Hustler Casino Live isn’t just another poker show. Since its launch in August 2021, it has skyrocketed to become the most-watched poker livestream ever.
- It has hosted legendary games, including the viral MrBeast Game in 2022.
- The show made history with the first-ever $1 million minimum buy-in live cash game in 2023.
- It has weathered controversies, from the infamous Robbi-Garrett hand to Vertucci’s allegations.
Despite all the drama, the show’s popularity has remained strong. With NSUS stepping in and Feldman leading the way, HCL doesn’t seem to be slowing down anytime soon.
What’s Next for Hustler Casino Live?
The big question now: Will NSUS leverage its new stake to integrate HCL with GGPoker in some way?
There’s no official word on whether the show will feature GGPoker promotions or branding, but it wouldn’t be surprising. Given how the company has positioned itself in the industry, some level of crossover seems inevitable.
For now, Feldman is focused on keeping the show running smoothly. And poker fans? They’ll keep tuning in, hoping for the next unforgettable hand.
