WPT Global Ambassador Deal Offers Nacho Barbero ‘A New Beginning’
Summary
Argentine pro Nacho Barbero has signed as an ambassador for WPT Global following his departure from ACR earlier in the year. Barbero describes the move as a “fresh start” after admitting fault in his exit from ACR. He praised WPT Global’s rapid growth and unique offerings, noting super-deep-stacked cash games, unusual blind structures and generally soft fields.
Barbero was speaking during the Triton Super High Roller Series Jeju II, where he also commented on the high quality of Triton events and the luxury experience they provide. He said he is stepping back from heavy PLO high-stakes cash games for lifestyle reasons but will continue to play mixed games and hopes to promote them to a broader audience. At Jeju he played a mix of events, cashed modestly and represented WPT Global in some tournaments without a major result.
Key Points
- Barbero joins WPT Global as an ambassador after leaving ACR; he calls the deal a “new beginning.”
- He praises WPT Global’s expansion since 2022 and highlights its deep-stacked cash games and novel blind/ante formats.
- Barbero is positive about Triton events — top-tier venues, service and experience for recreational players.
- He is stepping back from frequent high-stakes PLO cash games for lifestyle reasons but remains active in mixed games and tournaments.
- The move signals both a reputational reset for Barbero and continued collaboration between online brands and high-profile pros.
Context and relevance
This story matters to anyone following high-stakes poker, player sponsorships or the shifting landscape of online poker operators. WPT Global’s increasing visibility (including as Triton’s title sponsor) and its ambassador signings show how established tour brands are partnering with online platforms to boost reach. For players, Barbero’s public acceptance of responsibility and pivot away from PLO cash-game excesses highlights a trend where pros recalibrate careers and public image while staying active in the tournament and mixed-game circuits.
Author’s take
Punchy: Barbero owned his mistake, grabbed a lifeline and is trying to turn the page — this is the sort of pro rehab that changes headlines and matters to sponsors. If you care about the business side of poker or enjoy a bit of player drama, this is worth watching.
Why should I read this?
Short version: Nacho messed up, said so, and got a fresh deal. Read it if you like player drama, want a snapshot of how online brands sign big names, or are tracking where big pros are playing and why they’re changing gears.