The Bodog Poker Network has agreed to the acquisition its brand and software by Bodog88. Bodog founder Calvin Ayre launched Bodog88 in March 2012, hoping to take advantage of the quickly emerging Asian gambling market. This is the latest move by the Bodog Entertainment Group to stay relevant following pressure from the United States Department of Justice. Calving Ayre and his company were indicted in February 2012 for illegal sports betting and online gambling operations. The dormant Bodog.com domain name was seized as well.
In addition to the sale, the current CEO of the Bodog Poker Network, Patrick Selin, has announced his resignation. Selin had been with Bodog since he helped launch the network in 2010, and has had a significant impact in online gaming. His most recent splash came with the controversial implementation of a recreational poker model at Bodog in an attempt to maximize appeal to more casual players. This included anonymous tables meant to limit the effectiveness of datamining software. The tables have been popular despite security concerns. He also helped broker the sale of the Ongame Network to bwin for nearly $500 million in 2006.
The Morris Mohawk Gaming Group out of Montreal now controls their U.S. facing brand, Bovada, offering many of the same services from before. Bovada
It appears that with all of the promotion going into the Bodog88 brand, the Bodog Entertainment group is making a strong push towards Asia as the future for online gambling. This is no surprise considering the strong cultural history of gambling in many Asian countries and the proximity of some of the fastest growing economies in the world. In a press release, the company made the importance of the recreational model clear, citing its wide appeal to players in the Asian market. Bodog has played its hand, and it seems that Asia might be a great bet.