Poker Pros Prepare for WSOP with Bold Bets and Challenges

Poker players are gearing up for the World Series of Poker (WSOP) with unique challenges and bets that push the boundaries of their physical and mental endurance. Mike MatuSov, known for his bold statements, has placed a significant bet on Ted Forrest's weight loss. MatuSov wagered that Forrest would lose 22 kg by July 15, 2010. If Forrest succeeds, he will win $2 million from MatuSov. However, if Forrest fails to meet the deadline, he will lose $150,000.

In addition to the weight loss challenge, MatuSov has made another daring bet. He threatened to run naked down the Las Vegas Strip if three women win WSOP bracelets in 2010. This bet was sparked by the recent successes of women in poker, including Annie Duke's victory at the National Heads-Up Poker Championship, Liv Boeree's win at the EPT San Remo, and Vanessa Selbst's triumph at the main event of NAPT Mohegan Sun. Tay Stewart, the vice president of WSOP, predicted that women would win three bracelets this year, fueling MatuSov's bet.

Another notable challenge involves Antonio Esfandiari and Brian Rast. The two poker pros have bet on not drinking for three months, allowing themselves six drinks each during this period. The bet is accompanied by a strict training program and diet, with the goal of improving their performance at the WSOP. The sum of the bet is $30,000, but the real prize is the potential improvement in their poker skills and physical condition.