888Poker is taking its marketing in a new direction with the help of its new “cultural” ambassador, pro boxer Chris Eubank Jr.
The signing coincides with 888Poker’s 20th anniversary and brings a slightly different look to a team predominately made up of established pros. Eubank Jr. is the son of former middleweight champion, Chris Eubank, and a title-holder in his own right.
That means he has a certain mainstream cachet his teammates, such as the quintet of streamers 888Poker signed in July, don’t have. However, the Englishman isn’t just a marquee name who’s there to be trotted out at press events.
Eubank Jr. knows how to throw down
Eubank Jr. can often be seen playing cash games when he’s training in Las Vegas. He’s also played on “Poker After Dark,” and with Grosvenor ambassador and retired heavyweight champion, David Haye.
So, while he may be considered a celebrity player when he’s at the poker table, he’s far from a stranger to the game. In fact, Eubank Jr. is aware of the disconnect between some celebrity ambassadors and the poker community. That’s why he’s aiming to compete in as many events as possible.
“I’ve seen other guys doing it and they don’t really understand the game, but I’m an experienced cash game player,” Eubank Jr. said during a press conference at 888Poker Live London.
The arrival of Eubank Jr. comes at the same time 888Poker is celebrating its 20th anniversary and coincides with the departure of long-serving ambassador, Sofia Lövgren. The Swedish pro represented the company for eight years and, although she remains active in poker, she’s now focusing on new ventures.
(1/2) After 8 amazing years with @888poker , it is time for a new chapter. It has been an absolute pleasure to work with so many nice people on 888.
This global platform allowed me to meet so many nice people around the world.— Sofia Lövgren (@Sofia_Lovgren) January 11, 2022
The exit of a poker pro has created space for a “cultural” ambassador, and Eubank Jr. sees his new role as a chance to introduce more people to poker.
“888Poker is not just about the super professionals, it’s about getting everyone involved and having fun,” Eubank Jr. continued.
New opportunities for 888Poker
Being the son of Chris Eubank means Jr. was blessed with the ability to talk as well as punch. He might not be the showman his father was (see video below), but Eubank Jr. still knows how to make headlines.
A quick Google search of his name throws up articles from the BBC, Sky Sports, the Daily Mail, and the Sun. And, unlike other boxers who have partnered with poker companies, such as David Haye and Carl Froch, Eubank Jr. is still an active fighter.
That means he courts attention each time he steps into the ring. That’s an opportunity 888Poker is hoping to exploit as it looks to build on the player base it’s built up over the past 20 years.
