Hayes Pteen patti winullard Is Co

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The Celebrity Poker Tour (CPT) completed its first season in 2024 and hosted eight events. the celebrities were a mix of traditional sports stars, comedians, and TV personalities, as well as more modern-day celebrity streamers, vloggers, and internet personalities.

On May 2, the CPT will continue with Game Night VI featuring the likes of Colby Covington, Alexandra Botez, and Zach Justice. PokerNewswill be on-site for what's sure to be a fun night offering up interviews and other behind-the-scenes content.

One of the most valued members of the CPT team, and the latest industry insider to be featured in this series, is former NFL linebacker Hayes Pullard, who is originally from Los Angeles. The 32-year-old graduated from the University of Southern California (USC) where he played college football as a four-year starter and two-time team captain while earning his bachelor’s degree.

In 2015, he was drafted into the NFL and played for teams such as the Cleveland Browns, Jacksonville Jaguars, and Los Angeles Chargers. Nowadays, Pullard is the Co-Founder and President of Talent at CPT. So, how did the former pro athlete find his way to poker?

“I’ve always been aware of poker, but I never had much interest in learning how to play,” Pullard told PokerNews. “That changed after I moved to Vegas, where some of my close friends started inviting me to their home games. They’d say, ‘Hayes, just come play—it’s a great time, and I bet you’ll be good at it.’ After a few games and a couple of winning hands, I was hooked. Like anyone who remembers their first time playing poker, I quickly fell in love with the game.”

He elaborated: “The strategy, psychology, and competitive nature drew me in—it reminded me of football in many ways, especially the preparation and reading your opponents. But above all, it was the fun and camaraderie at the table that kept me coming back. After months of playing home games and improving my skills, poker became even more thrilling. I’ll never forget sitting at the table with Steiny, Bryce Hall, and Alexandra Botez on one side, and Austin Ekeler, Tana Mongeau, and many others and thinking, ‘This is poker.’ The energy, laughter, and competitiveness made those games truly unforgettable, especially being surrounded by such a dynamic group.”

When it comes to the CPT, Pullard is focused on connecting the worlds of poker and celebrity culture, bringing together personalities from diverse industries—athletes, entertainers, influencers, and creators—to share their love of the game.

“My mission is to create a space where poker becomes more than just a competition, but a platform for collaboration, storytelling, and unforgettable moments,” he said. “By bridging these unique worlds, I aim to make poker more fun and exciting for fans and players alike … As someone new to the world of poker, I was drawn to the idea of making the game more fun, engaging, and competitive for everyone. CPT has provided the perfect platform to turn that vision into reality.”

Pullard also shared what he thought sets the CPT apart from other poker tours and events.

"What makes us even more special is our focus on storytelling and creating unforgettable moments, which makes CPT the true unicorn of poker.”

“CPT truly stands alone when you try to compare it to all other poker events because we do things in a unique way. Unlike traditional tournaments, CPT isn’t just about big names and high-stakes games; it’s about creating an exciting and inclusive atmosphere where anyone—whether a poker pro, athlete, streamer, or model—can join the fun, experience the thrill, and have a shot at winning a handful of cool prizes along with bragging rights over some of the most competitive celebrities, athletes, and entertainers in the world. What makes us even more special is our focus on storytelling and creating unforgettable moments, which makes CPT the true unicorn of poker.”

The CPT’s first season proved to be a big success, and they’ve already hosted their first event of Season 2. So, what is Pullard most excited about for the CPT in its sophomore year?

“I’m beyond excited to see the incredible growth we’ll experience in Season 2,” Pullard shared. “The momentum is building, and it’s electrifying to watch CPT expand its reach to new heights. I can’t wait to meet new players, share the table with fresh faces, and reconnect with some of my peers from sports and entertainment. The energy and dynamic that emerge when people from all walks of life come together through this game is unmatched, and I’m thrilled to see this season unfold with even more unforgettable moments, epic plays, and exciting new connections.”

For more on the CPT, including learning when events will take place and what celebrities will compete, be sure to follow the CPT at @celebritypokertour on social media. You can also follow Pullard at @HayesPullard.

_{*Images courtesy of Celebrity Poker Tour / Hayes Pullard.}