High Stakes Poker Season 6: New Sponsor, Host, and Big Buy-Ins

High Stakes Poker is gearing up for its sixth season with several significant changes. The show, which has been a staple in the poker community, will start filming in November in Las Vegas. One of the most notable changes is the introduction of a new sponsor: PokerStars. This shift comes after PokerStars outbid its main competitors, including FullTilt.

Dennis Phillips, a finalist in the 2008 World Series of Poker, has been confirmed to participate in the sixth season. The minimum buy-in for participants has been increased to $400,000, which is a significant jump from previous seasons. This increase has raised questions about whether professionals from FullTilt, such as Phil Ivey and Patrick Antonius, will be able to join the tables. However, it seems that Tom Dwan's participation is secure.

Another major change is the departure of AJ Benza as the host. Benza, along with Gabe Kaplan, has been hosting the show for the past five seasons. With Benza's departure, there has been speculation about who will take over the hosting duties. Several names have been floated, including Vanessa Russo, Kara Scott, Shana Hiatt, and LiAnne Tweden. Vanessa Russo has denied rumors that she will be hosting the show, stating in a letter to PokerNewsDaily that she will not be the new host. The official decision on the new host will be announced on Friday.