Strip Poker: UFC Fighter’s Charity Tourney Raises $90K

Known in the fighting world as “The Natural,” Randy Couture was the first man to win the Heavyweight title in the UFC three times, so it seems “natural” that his talent, dedication, and work ethic will make him successful in other ventures. That is why it was no surprise that Operation All-in, a celebrity charity poker tournament benefitting his organization, the Xtreme Couture GI Foundation, was successful in raising more than $90,000.

The goal of the Xtreme Couture GI Foundation is to raise money and awareness for soldiers wounded in action and their families, as well as to help soldiers with anything they might need to return to civilian life. More than 200 celebrities, mixed-martial-arts fighters, poker professionals, and fans showed up Saturday at the Joint inside the Hard Rock Casino in

Las Vegas to support this cause. The no-limit hold’em event had a $550 buy-in with $200 rebuys. Emceeing the tournament was 2006 World Series of Poker champion Jamie Gold, who actually taught Couture the game two nights before the event.

“He is an extremely intelligent guy, and he caught on quickly. I am just very excited to be part of this event,” said Gold, who also helped recruit many of the celebrity and poker pro attendees. Among those who participated were Todd Brunson, Hoyt Corkins, Kirk Morrison, Pam Brunson, Hollywood actor Dean Cain, and talk-show host Montel Williams.

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