News WSOP News

Hellmuth Changes His Tune: The “Poker Brat” Is All In for the 2025 WSOP Main Event

Hellmuth Changes His Tune: The “Poker Brat” Is All In for the 2025 WSOP Main Event
Image
Iva Dozet News Editor
  • Fact Checked by: PokerListings
  • Last updated on: May 30, 2025 · 3 minutes to read

It turns out poker’s biggest drama of the summer might not come from a bad beat on Day 7 of the Main Event, but from one of its loudest legends changing his mind at the last minute.

Just a few months ago, Phil Hellmuth announced he was likely out of the 2025 World Series of Poker Main Event. Citing the brutal schedule and long hours, he called the tournament “exhausting” and suggested it disproportionately favors younger players. But now, on the eve of cards in the air, Hellmuth has declared: he’s 100% playing.

And yes, there will be a costume involved.

From Boycott to Encore: What Changed for Hellmuth?

Hellmuth’s about-face comes after months of speculation, fueled by his own on-again-off-again statements. Back in February, he claimed the tournament was “too tough” and proposed a boycott unless WSOP organizers changed the Main Event’s structure to include a rest day.

Phil Hellmuth

I can’t win. It really hurts the older players in a much bigger proportion than the younger players.

Then, in a rather Phil-like twist, he told followers on X (formerly Twitter) that they could decide his fate. He’d honor the results of a public poll, asking fans if he should play or sit out.

The poll started out in favor of him playing — but after a late swing toward the “boycott” option, Hellmuth deleted it. In a follow-up video, he claimed the poll may have been manipulated. And just like that, the final verdict came not from the people, but from the Poker Brat himself.

Phil Hellmuth

I am 100% playing in the @WSOP Main Event!. I’ll be coming in themed as ‘Highway to Hellmuth.’ Might dress up like an 80’s rock star.

The Return of the WSOP 2025 Main Event Circus

Hellmuth’s entrances have long been a fixture of the WSOP Main Event, drawing everything from applause to eye-rolls. This year’s “Highway to Hellmuth” theme is expected to be no different.

While we don’t yet know the full details, he’s teased a full glam-rock getup — think big hair, leather jackets, and maybe a little pyrotechnic attitude. He also hinted that Daniel “Jungleman” Cates could make another appearance in the act.

The entrance tradition began over two decades ago and has featured everything from gladiator costumes to Star Wars characters. Whether you’re into the spectacle or not, the show appears to be very much on.

Giveaways, Guitars, and a Mustang?

Hellmuth didn’t just confirm his participation — he also teased a possible giveaway courtesy of his sponsor, BetRivers. According to his announcement, there’s a chance a Ford Mustang could be up for grabs during this year’s festivities.

It’s not the first time a brand has leaned into Hellmuth’s flair for dramatics, but it certainly adds another layer to the already-hyped return. No further details have been confirmed, but the word is out — and the buzz is real.

Legacy and the Long Grind

At 60, Hellmuth remains one of the most successful tournament players in history. He holds a record 17 WSOP bracelets and famously won the 1989 Main Event at just 24 years old, beating Johnny Chan heads-up.

WSOP 1989 Phil Hellmuth
WSOP 1989 Phil Hellmuth
WSOP 1989 Phil Hellmuth

However, it’s been a while since he’s run deep in the Main. His last Main Event cash came in 2015, and in recent years, the conversation has often been less about his play and more about his entrances.

But whether he’s showing up to entertain, compete, or both, Phil Hellmuth being in the field is still newsworthy. His presence brings attention, headlines, and yes — a bit of chaos.

Image
Written By: Iva Dozet News Editor
Recommended