“Is poker truly back in the UK, or is this just another passing trend?” It seems that online poker in the UK is experiencing a rebirth, one that could rival its previous heyday. According to a YouGov analysis, participation has doubled in just three years, jumping from 5% of the population in 2021 to a solid 10% in 2024.
What’s causing this surge in interest, and what’s driving the players?
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The Poker Revival: A New Age of Competitive Play
Online poker in the UK is no longer the fringe hobby it once was. In fact, the game is thriving in new, exciting ways. While the game has always had its loyal following, platforms like Twitch, Discord, and streaming services have given it a new level of engagement. The game isn’t just about playing anymore; it’s about being a part of a community. With 44% of players falling between the ages of 35-54 and 43% being 18-34, poker has captured the attention of a diverse age range, signalling a tech-savvy audience embracing a fast-paced, competitive environment.
What makes this rise even more interesting is the level of investment. Nearly 28% of players are spending between £101 and £500 monthly, with 15% surpassing that threshold. Compare that to online sports betting, where only 4% spend over £500, and it’s clear: poker players are deeply invested in their game, emotionally and financially.
Mark ‘Weazel_1991’ Rubbathan: The Underdog Who Became a Star
One name stands out in the new UK poker scene—Mark Rubbathan, or “Weazel_1991” in the online world. At 33, he’s become a figurehead for the UK’s poker resurgence, much like Chris Moneymaker did in the early 2000s. Rubbathan’s journey from playing £1 sit-and-go tournaments in a friend’s basement to taking home a $636,000 payday at the Triton Super High Roller Series is nothing short of extraordinary.
“It’s not about cashing for me; it’s about the experience,” says Rubbathan, who never expected to win big. But win big he did, taking a free entry into the Triton event and turning it into an unforgettable payday.
Rubbathan’s approach to online poker isn’t just about the cards—it’s about the community. He’s an active streamer on Twitch, where his mix of poker expertise and digital charisma has gained him a devoted fanbase. His raw, unfiltered reactions to the highs and lows of poker add to his charm. “People like watching me rage,” he says. This honesty and authenticity have turned him into one of the most popular figures in the online poker world.
The Role of Esports and Streaming in Poker’s Digital Evolution
One of the driving forces behind poker’s resurgence is the rise of esports and streaming culture. Platforms like Twitch have turned poker into a spectator sport, blending traditional gaming with the thrill of live-action poker. Poker players like Rubbathan don’t just play—they broadcast their sessions, explain their strategies in real time, and connect with viewers on a deeper level. It’s an interactive experience, where poker enthusiasts can learn, engage, and cheer on their favourite players, all while gaining insight into the game’s technical side.
Moreover, the crossover between poker and esports is no accident. Esports is now a £184 million industry in the UK, and it’s showing no signs of slowing down. As esports education becomes more mainstream, poker fits right into the digital media, marketing, and broadcasting framework that schools are now teaching. It’s not just about playing the game; it’s about understanding the mechanics behind it, the psychology of the players, and the nuances that make poker so captivating.
Poker’s Future: Bigger and Bolder
The online poker scene in the UK has gone through a dramatic transformation. What was once considered a niche hobby is now a booming industry, and with platforms like Americas Cardroom offering both beginner-friendly and high-stakes opportunities, the game’s accessibility has never been better. The evolution of poker isn’t just about skill—it’s about community, culture, and building a personal brand. The future is here, and it’s being written by players like Rubbathan, who started small and now have global stakes in their hands.
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FAQs
- What caused the resurgence of online poker in the UK?
The rise of digital platforms like Twitch and Discord, along with the accessibility of online poker, has made it more popular than ever.
- How much are UK poker players spending on average?
Approximately 28% of players are spending between £101 and £500 monthly on online poker.
- Who is Mark Rubbathan, and why is he important?
Mark “Weazel_1991” Rubbathan is a 33-year-old poker pro who rose to fame after winning $636,000 at the Triton Super High Roller Series. He represents the new wave of poker players in the UK.
- How has Twitch influenced online poker?
Twitch has made poker a spectator sport, allowing fans to watch players, learn strategies, and engage with their favourite poker stars in real time.
- What’s the future of UK online poker?
With platforms like Americas Cardroom offering diverse tournament formats and more players embracing the game, the future looks bright for UK poker.
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Content Courtesy: yougov.com