Doug Polk Risks $40,000 in poker for “Kill Tony” ⁣Gig

Updated June 13, 2025

Poker pro Doug Polk, known for his heads-up prowess, put $40,000 on the line for an unusual prospect: a guest spot on the popular comedy podcast “Kill Tony.” The show, a YouTube staple that has recently featured ⁢specials on Netflix, showcases ⁢amateur comedians before a panel ⁢of established stars.

Typically,aspiring comedians are chosen randomly. Polk, however, took a more direct, albeit riskier, route to the stage.

According to Tony Hinchcliffe,the initial encounter occurred at⁣ a⁤ bar. Hinchcliffe, after learning⁣ of polk’s presence, challenged him‍ to a poker match. Polk risked $20,000 for a one-minute set on “Kill Tony.” Hinchcliffe won that‍ first ⁤round in just 20 minutes.

Not content with his winnings, Hinchcliffe proposed a double-or-nothing bet. This time, $40,000 and two “Kill ⁢tony” appearances were at stake.

⁣ “So, I won $20,000⁤ and we doubled the bet to $40,000 and ⁢any day now he’s going to be popping in on this show,” Tony said. “So ⁤yeah, ⁤he won that second game.”
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Polk made his “Kill Tony” debut June 9 and‍ delivered what Hinchcliffe and other guests considered the best set of the night.

⁣ “Obviously people who ⁤can play poker professionally are already living a lot of ‍people’s dreams. The fact you’re chasing this rush and it is, as you can probably feel, a crazy adrenaline ⁣rush, same type of‍ thing as when you’re in a big hand and you don’t f**king⁤ know what’s going on,” Hinchliffe ⁤said. “But you got it.”
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Polk has ⁤one more guaranteed appearance on “kill Tony.” Given the success of his first performance, a spot on a future Netflix special ⁤remains a possibility, especially as the poker star seeks that comedic “rush.”

What’s next

Polk’s second “Kill Tony” appearance is pending. Fans anticipate another strong‍ performance, potentially opening doors to future comedy ventures and Netflix specials.