Whenever someone wins the lottery, the pools, or in this case the World Series of Poker they always seem to become a flame to a swarm of moths desperate for their piece of the pie. Invariably family they didn’t know existed and friends whose name they cant remember miraculously appear on their doorstep, all eager to offer up token gifts and gestures in the hope of landing a big kickback for the sudden generosity.

For Jamie Gold however, the man knocking on his door did not bring flowers or chocolates, just a writ. According to the Las Vegas Sun Jamie Gold, the 2006 World Series of Poker champion, is being sued for half his $12 million winnings by a man who alleges Gold has reneged on an agreement the two struck before the WSOP began.

Bruce Crispin Leyser, a television producer from the UK who has also worked as an instructor for the World Poker Tour Boot Camp, alleges he struck a deal with Gold to recruit well known celebrities to compete in the WSOP while endorsing the Bodog online poker room. According to the Sun, Leyser alleges that in return for completing his side of the bargain he was promised half of Gold’s take in the Main Event. He is now seeking that amount through the courts.

Leyser is reported to have claimed he has voicemail messages from Jamie Gold confirming the 50/50 deal on the morning of the final table. And the courts are taking no chances with Chief District Court Judge Kathy Hardcastle issuing a restraining order preventing Harrah’s from paying Jamie Gold his winnings until after the first hearing of the lawsuit, scheduled for September 1st. Harrah’s confirmed Gold has not yet collected his money.

Submitted: 23/08/2006 14:11:24