Phil Ivey has just to make a statement, via his Facebook page, saying that since Fulltilt Poker had still not paid the players, he would boycott the 2011 WSOP and that he officially filed a complaint against Tiltware, the company managing FullTilt Poker.
Some have first thought that Phil Ivey had been hacked her Facebook page, but the absence of Phil Ivey at the first event of the 2011 WSOP (HeadsUp Highroller $ 25,000) was still flat a doubt. A few minutes later, the Manager of Phil Ivey has confirmed the news: Phil Ivey will not participate in the world series of poker 2011, by solidarity for US players who have their funds stuck on Fulltilt Poker.
Here is the statement of Phil Ivey (translated by PokerCollectif):
For many years, I was proud to tell me a poker player. This great sport which brought me to places that I don't never imagined go. I have been blessed many successes. It is therefore with deep regret that I believe that I am obliged to make the following statement.
I am deeply disappointed and embarrassed that Fulltilt Poker has still not paid the money owed to the players. I am also embarrassed that, as a result, many players may not participate in tournaments and have suffered economic injury.
I do not play in the World Series of Poker because I do not believe it is fair that I am able to y compete so that others cannot. I do what I can to find a solution to the problem as quickly as possible.
My name and my reputation were dragged in the mud due to inaction and indecision of others and on behalf of all poker players, I refuse to remain silent much longer. I have electronics filed a complaint against Tiltware regarding outstanding accounts. As you can probably imagine, this has not been an easy decision for me.
I absolutely refuse to accept non-action concerning the reimbursement of the funds of the players and I am angry that all these people who have supported me throughout my career have been so badly treated.
I sincerely hope that this statement will get people who are able to solve the problems of inaction and I want to clarify that until a solution is found to secure funds from all players, both in the United States and internationally. I will, as I have done for six weeks, devote all of my time and my efforts to find a solution for those who have been wronged by the painfully slow process of refund.
PokerCollectif will keep you abreast of developments. In the meantime, you can comment on this news by clicking the following link: Phil Ivey is boycotting the WSOP and filed a complaint against FullTilt Poker.
