Poker Hall of Famer Daniel Negreanu recently participated in a candid AMA session with fans on Reddit’s r/poker, where he touched on everything from the World Series of Poker (WSOP) to artificial intelligence, the controversial “Big Beautiful Bill Act,” and even his cameo appearances in music videos.
From Game of Gold to WSOP Strategy
When asked if the reality competition series Game of Gold would return, Negreanu was not optimistic. “Unfortunately, I don’t see it happening, but who knows, that could change. I thought it was great stuff,” he told fans.
On the topic of poker advice, Negreanu emphasized finding the right balance between theory and instincts. “The best players in the world, while they understand theory, they aren’t slaves to it,” he explained.
He also addressed the growing impact of artificial intelligence in online poker, predicting an ongoing battle between players and operators. “AI will be a weapon players use to try and get an edge, but operators will also have access to these tools and be able to spot it, hopefully.”
For live poker, Negreanu argued that high buy-in tournaments should implement shot clocks to curb stalling. “Every tourney with a buy-in $5k or greater needs to go with shot clocks,” he said, pointing out that too many players take advantage of the current pace of play rules.
Despite acknowledging that the overall skill gap has narrowed, Negreanu still sees opportunities for success. “If you are really good, you can still make loads of money. What changed is that you used to be able to just be OK and win because the bad players were so bad. Today, the casual players are much better than they used to be.”
At 51 years old, Negreanu dismissed the idea that age is a major barrier in the game. “It used to be said that 40–45 is that sweet spot, and that probably still holds true, although at 51 I’m definitely better and sharper than I’ve ever been.”
Politics and the Big Beautiful Bill Act
Negreanu did not shy away from political questions. When asked about his current political stance, he described himself as “politically homeless,” distancing himself from both major parties.
He also weighed in on the controversial Big Beautiful Bill Act, which proposes a 90% cap on gambling loss deductions. Negreanu expressed optimism that the provision would not last. “I think that part will get repealed. If I had to guess, I’d say it’s like 72% to get done since both sides of the aisle agree it’s really stupid and unfair.”
Rivalries, Haunted Hands, and Table Antics
The AMA also featured lighter discussions. Negreanu revealed that the hand that still bothers him most was from the 2001 WSOP Main Event, where he busted in 11th place after losing a crucial flip with AK against 66.
When asked about his favorite opponent, he singled out Phil Hellmuth. “Gotta be Phil Hellmuth because it’s funny to watch him mumble when he loses a pot,” Negreanu said.
Not all opponents bring entertainment value, though. He criticized players like Will Kassouf and Martin Kabrhel for their excessive tanking and disruptive table talk, calling it “beyond obnoxious” and saying he would not allow it if he were running tournaments.
Life Beyond the Felt
On the topic of career earnings, Negreanu admitted he doesn’t keep track. “I’m truly terrible with money and have no idea. Money is never what drove me, and I always had an abundant mindset ever since I was young.”
Away from the poker table, Negreanu has developed a friendship with director Joseph Kahn, which has led to appearances in Detention, Bodied, and even Katy Perry’s Waking Up in Vegas music video. “She is playing poker against me, ha,” Negreanu recalled.
Through humor, honesty, and his trademark openness, Negreanu’s AMA gave fans a deeper look at how he views poker today, his place in the game, and the life he’s built beyond it.
