I actually watched this run of f bombs on Pokergo. I was shocked by the fact he was never asked to calm down. He is one of the all time greats but that was disrespectful. I cant help but wonder what would have happened if it was Anthony Zinno doing this would he have been treated differently.
The fact no one (e.g. WSOP staff/casino floor) intervened, or asked him to calm down (or a verbal warning at least etc.) highlights a justice problem for me. It seems like different rules apply to different people. If some no-name poker player in the event said half of those things, then I'm virtually certain they'd be kicked out, or at least severely punished.
I'm by no means excusing Hellmuth's poor sport behavior, but I don't believe it is entirely his fault either. You know why WSOP staff likely didn't intervene? It is "good for ratings" when Hellmuth gives his infamous "Poker Brat" behavior. Is this wrong? Yes! Of course it is! I don't think Hellmuth is 100% to blame though; WSOP staff (or more specifically producers/tv station management) can't egg on Hellmuth to act this way and then come down on him severely when he acts clearly out of line.
The cycle will probably continue until the root of the problem is addressed. The "justice" solution (in my opinion) would be that WSOP (and the casino hosting the event) define the rules AND punishments/penalties more distinctly (reading the current rules, there is too much room for bias and deciding what behavior is punishable and to what extent) AND
enforce said rules. The "rulebook" is useless if not enforced.
I'm not suggesting a "swear jar" next to the pot where every offense requires the player in the wrong to contribute (although I'm curious to see what that would play out to...), but if ANYONE violates some rule of the game, or etiquette expected, then it should be clear what the penalty should be.
Hellmuth isn't the only one known to swear though. Even the "tranquilo" Daniel Negreanu uses a lot of f-bombs when he tilts. The variance and emotional rollercoaster of the game we can all relate to, but on top of that, these players at the top are competing for high stakes AND the pressure on all of these pros. It doesn't make this behavior right, but at least it is understandable to some extent ("some extent" being the key phrase needing to be defined better by rules enforced). An empty threat of burning down the casino is far past this line for sure.
From the few poker events I've seen (although perhaps these players aren't perfect either), Hellmuth should take notice of some class acts like Joe Hachem or Chris Ferguson. Say what one will, but I've seen these players handle similarly stressful situations with a lot more emotional control and restraint.
I'll be curiously keeping tabs on this thread to see what other cardschat members have to contribute (in response to the article as well as my perspective on it)
