A top-ranked female poker player has revealed the opulent and sometimes bizarre world of underground poker, describing games with buy-ins of $15,000 attended by Hollywood figures, tech entrepreneurs, and venture capitalists.
Reyna, who plays online under the name Rocket Reyna, began her poker journey at age 20 and became a prominent player in international tournaments. Her experiences eventually led her beyond public casinos into exclusive private games.
One such game, held at a Los Angeles hotel, featured amenities like a private chef and massage services, alongside a mix of celebrities and influential businessmen. Reyna noted that while these private games have a distinct atmosphere, the general field of poker is accessible to a wide range of individuals.
Access to these exclusive games often comes through connections. Reyna recounted becoming friendly with a wealthy older gentleman involved in the poker scene, who extended invitations to high-stakes games. This same individual also involved her in ventures outside of poker, such as exploring island properties in the Philippines.
While not as widely publicized as the partners of Formula 1 drivers or professional athletes, the underground poker scene can still be glamorous, with attendees often seen in designer clothing. Reyna mentioned Lala Kent of "Vanderpump Rules" as a notable figure associated with the scene through her past relationship with film producer Randall Emmett.
Reyna also highlighted the challenges professional poker players face in their personal lives, as the demanding hours spent at the table can make maintaining relationships difficult unless a partner also plays poker or understands the lifestyle.
Beyond the glitz, Reyna described the underground poker world as largely unregulated, leading to instances where police cannot intervene in disputes, sometimes necessitating the hiring of negotiators to collect debts. She also shared an account of a top poker player allegedly subjecting aspiring players to unusual rituals, including a retreat with a shaman, intended to enhance their mental capabilities for the game.
Reyna acknowledged the darker aspects of poker, including rampant gambling issues. She recalled a personal experience early in her career where she felt remorse after winning a small amount from a player who appeared devastated, an empathy she notes not all poker players share.
Having won significant sums, including a career-best $100,000 in a single tournament, Reyna now plays less frequently than she once did, participating in only one or two tournaments a year. Her ultimate poker aspiration, like many others, is to win a World Series of Poker (WSOP) bracelet, a coveted prize in professional poker, though no woman has yet won the prestigious Main Event.