The one who was undoubtedly most affected by that great purge of sponsored pros at PokerStars was Greg Raymer. Nobody expected this former WSOP Main Event champ to be one of those who would be cut but that was exactly what happened. It was a move that made criticism rain down on PokerStars, especially when they so callously and readily decided to take Peter Eastgate – who was inactive at that time – back into their fold. This was probably one of the reasons why all eyes were on him as he played at the NHUPC. Some other room would pick Raymer up, that’s for sure, but until the NHUPC, nobody knew for sure. As it turns out, Raymer now wears a Full Tilt Poker Patch – but does this mean that he’s now a Red Pro?

Greg Raymer and PokerStars

The Raymer – PokerStars debacle was an issue which caused quite a buzz in the poker community. Rumors stated that PokerStars was asking their pros to make do with something of a budget cut. Raymer did not like the offer so he decided to just cut off his ties with the said site and move on. Apparently, he’s planning to move on to Full Tilt, if the patch he wore at the NHUPC is any indication. However, since there’s no official announcement from Full Tilt yet, this might just be a trial period for Raymer. If he performs well at the NHUPC, then he’s in. If not, then the deal might not come through. It seems like the times are tough for even former champs these days. Raymer is even selling of some of his shares on the online staking site, ChipMeUp at $3 each.

His shares were quickly sold off, though, so if you were hoping to cash in on this opportunity, you can abandon your plans now because Tony G got to them first. He bought off 2,000 of the 2,847 shares that Raymer sold.

Greg Raymer vs. Mike Matusow

If this really is a trial for Raymer before he becomes a member of Team Full Tilt, then it’s only appropriate that his first obstacle on the National Heads Up Poker Championship would be Full Tilt’s own Mike Matusow. If he manages to get past Matusow, then he’s one step closer to his goal. If he does win the NHUPC, then it will be a great slap to the face for PokerStars and a big thumbs up for Full Tilt and Raymer.