Russell “RussDT” Thomas

Russell Thomas, also known as “RussDT,” is an American professional poker player from Hanover, Maryland. He co-founded Floptimal, a cutting-edge online poker training software that helps players optimize their strategy and decision-making. With staggering total earnings of nearly $4 million, Thomas’s highest single cash prize is a remarkable $2.9 million.

In addition to his impressive poker career, Thomas is also a streamer on Twitch under the username “RussDT,” where he has gained 962 followers. He has also appeared on Bally Live Poker.

RussDT’s Poker Journey on Bally Live Poker

RussDT debuted on July 28th, 2023, in BLP Episode 15. He participated in a $50/100 +$100BBA No Limit Hold ’em game with Jeremiah Williams, Keir Sullivan, Curtis Meeks, and others. RussDT won $9,200.

From Actuary to Professional Poker Pro

Russell Thomas graduated from Temple University with a bachelor’s degree in actuarial science. He landed a job as an actuary at Aetna insurance, but his true passion lay in playing poker. Thomas started playing online poker with his brother and eventually began to pursue his dream of playing professional poker. Despite being quiet about his aspirations to leave his actuary job to focus on poker full-time, Russell worked tirelessly to improve his skills. He honed his craft by studying and practicing, and eventually, he made the bold decision to leave his secure job as an actuary to pursue poker as a career.

In July 2012, Russell’s hard work paid off when he made it to the Final Table of the WSOP Main Event. To further enhance his skills, he hired a coach, Jason Somerville, and worked with his team to develop strategies and build his game over several months. Outside of poker, Russell is an avid player of chess and other games, which he occasionally streams on Twitch.

Russell Thomas: Live Tournament Participation

Russell Thomas has accumulated a total of nearly $4 million in earnings. His first live cash came in June 2010 at the 41st World Series of Poker (WSOP) in Las Vegas. Russell participated in a $1,500 No Limit Hold’em Six Handed Event, where he secured a 5th-place finish and earned a significant $84,256.

Thomas: 2012 WSOP October final Nine

Thomas made it to the 2012 WSOP October Nine after competing at the 43rd WSOP in Las Vegas, in July 2012. He took part in a $10,000 World Championship No Limit Hold’em Event and secured a fourth-place finish. Thomas earned a substantial $2,851,537 in winnings.

He made his latest appearance at the Wynn Summer Classic in Las Vegas, in June 2022. He participated in a $1,500 No Limit Hold’em Mystery Bounty Event, ultimately finishing in 270th place. Thomas took home a cash prize of $3,325.

Conclusion

Russell Thomas’ remarkable career as a professional poker player is a testament to the power of turning passion into a career. After transitioning from an actuary job to pursue poker full-time, Thomas’s hard work paid off. He earned nearly $4 million in earnings. His dedication to improving his skills has made him a respected player on Bally Live Poker and Twitch, and his achievements serve as an inspiration to those who dare to chase their dreams.