Behind the elegance of the game lie stories that shocked the global community. Here are the biggest poker scandals in history — from high-tech cheating to bitter rivalries and millions on the line.

1. The Mike Postle Scandal

In 2019, Mike Postle gained notoriety during live-streamed games at Stones Gambling Hall in California. He won with uncanny consistency, often making bizarre but successful decisions. Poker players and fans suspected he was receiving opponents’ card information via hidden devices — possibly a smartphone concealed in his cap. Although the court dismissed the case due to lack of evidence, his reputation was ruined.

2. Absolute Poker and UltimateBet Fraud

In the mid-2000s, online poker faced a major scandal. The platforms Absolute Poker and UltimateBet allowed certain accounts — the so-called "god mode" — to see opponents’ hole cards. Russ Hamilton, a professional player, was implicated and allegedly made millions through this cheat. The scandal severely damaged trust in online poker.

3. Tom Dwan vs. Phil Hellmuth Feud

Tom Dwan, known for his aggressive play, clashed with Phil Hellmuth, the WSOP bracelet record-holder. Hellmuth criticized Dwan’s style as “terrible,” to which Dwan fired back, “You’re old, and your game is outdated.” Their feud became symbolic of the generational shift between old-school and new-wave players.

4. Robbi Jade Lew Cheating Accusation

In 2022, Robbi Jade Lew was accused of cheating after making an unusual call on Hustler Casino Live, winning a massive pot with a weak hand. Although she denied the allegations, suspicions of hidden tech devices persisted. The controversy went viral and sparked heated debates across the poker world.

5. Full Tilt Poker Payout Scandal

After poker’s “Black Friday” in 2011, it was revealed that Full Tilt Poker had misused player funds like a private bank. The company owed hundreds of millions of dollars. Only after PokerStars and the U.S. Department of Justice intervened were players reimbursed. This scandal underscored the need for regulation and transparency in online gambling.

Poker is not just about flashy wins — it’s also a game shaped by scandals and controversy. These cases are reminders that even in games of skill and logic, human greed can leave a lasting mark.