Canada
The 2021 Numbers are in! The World Series of Poker is Back in a Big Way
Following over two years without live-action play, 6650 players from around the world flocked to the Rio All-Suite Hotel & Casino in Las Vegas for the return of the legendary 52nd annual World Series of Poker Main Event.
The Main Event brings about big winnings, with each player making the final table guaranteed at least $1,000,000 and the first-place world champion walking away with $8,000,000. With the return of in-person play and the easing of international travel restrictions, week six of the WSOP delivered on excitement with poker legend Doyle Brunson, a surprise appearance by Main Event champion alum Chris Moneymaker and major international player turnout.
“We could not be happier with the turnout to this year’s Main Event, from the big international crowd to the return of some of the greatest players of all time. Following a year of such uncertainty, it is amazing to have the poker community together again. The energy and excitement in the room is palpable as legends and amateurs from around the world gather together to try their chance at a world championship title, once again,” World Series of Poker Senior Vice President Ty Stewart said.
Week 6 Highlights:
Chris Moneymaker Makes Late Decision to Play WSOP Main Event
After announcing on Twitter earlier this year that he was unsure if he would make it out to this year’s WSOP in Las Vegas, 2003 Main Event champion Chris Moneymaker surprised the poker world by enrolling in Day 1F of the Main Event.
Josh Arieh Wins Fourth Bracelet in Event #66: $10,000 Pot-Limit Hi-Lo 8 or Better Championship
After overcoming a field of 208 entries, Josh Arieh claimed victory in Event #66: $10,000 Pot-Limit Hi-Lo 8 or Better Championship, taking home his fourth WSOP gold bracelet and $484,791 in cash. Widely considered one of the best pot-limit Omaha players, Arieh has already claimed three six-figure scores at this year’s WSOP including two bracelet wins.
2021 WSOP Day 36: Main Event Underway, Brunson Up to Old Tricks
Poker hall of famer and 10-time WSOP champion Doyle Brunson returned to the WSOP, playing his first Main Event since 2013. At 88 years old, Brunson currently is tied with Phil Ivey and Johnny Chan at second place for most WSOP bracelets with Phil Hellmuth leading at 16.
Poker Community Buys Man Facing Terminal Cancer entry into WSOP Main Event
After recently being diagnosed with terminal brain cancer, Michael Graydon wanted to fulfill his dream of playing in the WSOP Main Event. The professional poker community stepped in to make his dreams come true with MJ Gonzales and Jonathan Depa both paying half of Graydon’s buy-in and Maria Ho offering to pay for his flight to Las Vegas.
Former NBA Star Tony Parker Takes on WSOP Main Event
Six-time NBA All-star and four-time NBA Champion Tony Parker stepped into the WSOP Main Event, playing on Day 1B. After spending 17 seasons in the NBA, Parker now has his eyes set on a WSOP gold bracelet. Unfortunately, he was unable to advance to the second day of competition, but will have plenty of opportunities going forward now that he is retired from professional basketball.
What to Look Forward to:
Wednesday, Nov. 17 – Event #67: MAIN EVENT No-Limit Hold’em World Championship
The final two players will compete in a Heads Up Championship to determine who will be crowned the 2021 WSOP Main Event Champion.
Wednesday, Nov. 17 – Poker Hall of Fame Induction
The 2021 Poker Hall of Fame inductee will be announced, cementing their place in poker history among 56 of the game’s greatest players.
Upcoming WSOP live action on PokerGO: PokerGO is the exclusive live streaming home of the 2021 WSOP. A new annual subscription can get you the remainder of the 2021 WSOP and the 2022 WSOP on PokerGO. Live coverage of the 2021 WSOP Main Event is running now. Daily coverage will run all the way through until a winner is crowned on Wednesday, November 17. Don’t miss any of the incredible WSOP action.
Ben Clemes
High Roller Submits Gaming License Application in Ontario

High Roller Technologies, operator of the premium online casino brands High Roller and Fruta, announced the submission of its Internet Gaming Operator license application in Ontario, Canada, targeting the launch of its flagship brand HighRoller.com in the second half of 2025.
“The submission of our licensing application to access Ontario’s regulated online gambling market is an important milestone in our Company’s journey. Once our application is approved, we anticipate that we will have the opportunity to launch our online casino product into the market later this year,” said Ben Clemes, Chief Executive Officer at High Roller.
Ontario is one of the largest regulated online gambling markets in the world as measured by gross gaming revenue. In 2024, regulated online gambling operators within the province generated approximately $2.3B in gross gaming revenue, and growth continues to be recorded in the first half of 2025. Recently, the province of Alberta passed enabling legislation to establish a regulatory framework for online gambling. Once available, the Company also intends to pursue licensure in Alberta to expand its regulated market footprint in Canada.
“Ontario is missing an elegant brand like High Roller. We’re excited to roll out the red carpet for our new customers, and we’re looking forward to showcasing our tremendous product,” said Clemes.
The post High Roller Submits Gaming License Application in Ontario appeared first on Gaming and Gambling Industry in the Americas.
Canada
IAGR announces program for IAGR2025 conference in Toronto

The International Association of Gaming Regulators (IAGR) has released the program for its upcoming annual conference, to be held in Toronto from 20-23 October.
With the theme ‘Resilient regulation: Exploring what works, why and what’s next’, the event brings together global regulators and thought leaders to examine how regulatory frameworks can evolve to meet today’s challenges.
The four-day program explores timely issues, including the rise of AI and behavioural analytics, the impact of converging technologies, cross-border collaboration and the continued push to strengthen responsible gambling policies.
IAGR President Ben Haden said the program offers a strong preview of the content and conversations delegates can expect in Toronto.
‘This year’s program showcases the breadth and complexity of the challenges facing gambling regulators worldwide, from protecting player wellbeing to tackling illegal markets and understanding new technologies,’ Haden said.
‘I encourage regulators, researchers and policy professionals from around the world to join us in Toronto. The conference is a space to learn, share experience, challenge assumptions and shape the future of effective, collaborative regulation.’
Confirmed speakers and panellists include:
- Andrew Rhodes, CEO, Gambling Commission, Great Britain
- Anders Dorph, Director, Danish Gambling Authority, Denmark
- Dr Karin Schnarr, CEO and Registrar, Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario, Canada
- Mark Vander Linden, Director of Research and Responsible Gaming and Carrie Torrisi, Chief of Sports Wagering Division, Massachusetts Gaming Commission, United States
- Bashir Are, CEO, Lagos State Lotteries and Gaming Authority, Nigeria
- Teo Chun Ching, Chief Executive, Gambling Regulatory Authority, Singapore
- Ladipo Abiose Akolade, Founder, GamblePause Initiative Africa, Nigeria
- Rasmus Kjaergaard, CEO, Mindway AI, Denmark
- Tracy Parker, Senior Vice President, Accreditation, Advisory and Insights, Responsible Gambling Council, Canada
- Pedro Romero, Chief of Safer Gambling Partnerships, BetBlocker, Gibraltar
- Sonia Wasowska, Head of Supervision, General Commercial Gaming Regulatory Authority, United Arab Emirates
- Steven Blackburn, Partner, Ashurst Risk Advisory, Australia
The event will be held at The Westin Harbour Castle on Toronto’s waterfront.
The post IAGR announces program for IAGR2025 conference in Toronto appeared first on Gaming and Gambling Industry in the Americas.
Alberta Gaming
Edmonton Elks, Play Alberta Connect on New Partnership

Home field advantage has a new name, as the Edmonton Elks announced that Play Alberta Field at Commonwealth Stadium is now the home of the Elks.
The field naming rights are part of a broader multi-year agreement between Play Alberta and the EE, making Play Alberta the official sports betting partner of the Club.
“We couldn’t be more excited to expand our partnership with Play Alberta. This partnership is about more than just putting a name on the field – it’s about building something meaningful for our fans and our community. Play Alberta is an Alberta-based organization that shares our values and our commitment to giving back. Together, we’re creating new ways for fans to connect with our team and experience the game day atmosphere in a whole new way,” said Elks President and CEO Chris Morris.
The expanded relationship between the Elks and Play Alberta will allow the game day experience to continue to grow. Fans can look forward to unique activations and promotions around the stadium, including the chance to win game tickets and memorabilia.
“Since Play Alberta’s launch five years ago, our team has made it a priority to connect with the communities where our players live and work. We are very excited to join the Edmonton Elks on the field on game days during upcoming CFL seasons. Play Alberta Field at Commonwealth Stadium allows us to partner with the Elks and showcase two brands built for Albertans in a historic Edmonton location,” said Alberta Gaming, Liquor and Cannabis Chief Executive Officer Kandice Machado.
The Elks open their 76th season on Saturday, June 7 in Vancouver when they take on the B.C. Lions. Edmonton’s home opener at Play Alberta Field at Commonwealth Stadium is slated for Thursday, June 19 against the Montreal Alouettes.
The post Edmonton Elks, Play Alberta Connect on New Partnership appeared first on Gaming and Gambling Industry in the Americas.
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