Polk confirmed in a video announcement that the site’s financial success resulted in a ‘significant deal’
Doug Polk, one of the most recognizable names in poker, has sold his long-running training site Upswing Poker to ClubWPT Gold, the online poker platform affiliated with the World Poker Tour. The sale, confirmed last week, marks a new chapter for both Polk and the site he co-founded nearly a decade ago.
Launched in 2016, Upswing Poker was Polk’s first major business venture. The platform distinguished itself from others at the time by offering a structured, course-based model, departing from the library-style format that dominated the market. Over the years, it grew into one of the top online poker training resources, reaching tens of thousands of users and reportedly generating millions in revenue.
Though the exact amount of the sale remains undisclosed, Polk noted in a video announcement that the site’s financial success likely resulted in a significant deal. The transaction also means Upswing customers will now receive credits to use on ClubWPT, an integration that reflects Polk’s current affiliation with the platform. He joined ClubWPT Gold earlier this year and has been featured in promotional events such as the $5 million freeroll and the $1 million WSOP bonus.
The move also signals a full-circle moment for Polk, who once created Upswing to fill a perceived gap in the market left by previous leaders like CardRunners. Ironically, the latter briefly partnered with Full Tilt Poker before Black Friday brought the poker boom crashing down.
While ClubWPT already has a strong presence among online poker fans, the acquisition is a curious one, as much of Upswing’s audience likely overlaps with Polk’s existing following. Still, the combination of Polk’s brand and ClubWPT’s reach could offer new growth opportunities for both sides.
Polk, who now spends more of his time running the Lodge Card Club in Texas and pursuing other ventures, hinted he’s ready to let go of daily responsibilities at Upswing—though he remains proud of its legacy.
