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Maverick Founder Eric Persson Rescues Eight Washington Casinos Amid Nevada Closure Concerns

By jili tutorial · October 8, 2026

Maverick Founder Eric Persson Rescues Eight Washington Casinos Amid Nevada Closure Concerns

Eric Persson, founder of Maverick Gaming, has stepped in to save eight Washington cardrooms from imminent closure, securing a deal to buy back the properties from lenders. Meanwhile, two Nevada casinos remain at risk of shutting down by November 30, highlighting the complex financial challenges facing the gaming industry. This guide delves into the details of the transactions, the restructuring process, and the broader implications for employees and customers.

The Deal: Preserving Jobs and Operations

Washington Casinos Saved from Closure

Eight Washington cardrooms that were on the brink of closure will remain operational thanks to Persson’s intervention. The properties include:

The deal is expected to preserve approximately 850 jobs across these locations. Persson confirmed that the transaction should be finalized within three weeks, ensuring minimal disruption for customers. “From a customer standpoint, you know nothing changes,” he told KIRO Newsradio. “The building never closes.”

Nevada Properties Still at Risk

In Nevada, two Maverick Gaming properties—the Maverick Casino Hotel and the Gold Country Inn and Casino in Elko—are facing potential closure by November 30, according to Worker Adjustment and Retraining Notification (WARN) notices filed with the state. These closures could impact 239 employees. It remains unclear whether Persson plans to intervene in Nevada as he did in Washington.

Understanding the Financial Restructuring

Background: Lenders Take Control

The deal is part of Maverick Gaming’s broader financial restructuring. In 2025, the original Maverick operating business transferred its assets to lenders due to elevated debt burdens and post-pandemic revenue challenges. These assets were placed under the control of RunItOneTime LLC and subsidiaries, including Maverick Washington LLC. Subsequently, RunItOneTime and its affiliates entered Chapter 11 bankruptcy proceedings.

Persson’s Buyback Strategy

Persson has been systematically repurchasing assets from lenders since establishing a new operating entity under the Maverick Gaming brand. Over the past year, this entity has acquired multiple properties, including four Washington cardrooms and a gaming manufacturing unit. The recent deal marks the latest step in reclaiming the Maverick legacy.

Workforce Transition: WARN Filings Explained

Employee Protections and Rehiring

WARN filings submitted by Maverick Washington LLC cover roughly 850 employees, including dealers, food and beverage staff, cashiers, security personnel, and facility managers. While the notices initially signaled potential layoffs, the ownership transfer ensures these jobs will be preserved. However, employees must technically be processed as separations by the outgoing entity before being rehired by Persson’s new company.

Persson’s Clarification on Bankruptcy

Persson has emphasized that his active operating company remains legally distinct from the debtor entities in Chapter 11 proceedings. “We are not bankrupt,” he stated, underscoring the separation between his current ventures and the legacy estate undergoing restructuring.

Corporate Structure: A Complex Web

Federal bankruptcy court records reveal the multi-layered corporate structure involved in the restructuring. RunItOneTime LLC serves as the lead debtor, with Maverick Gaming LLC, Maverick Washington LLC, and numerous regional affiliates listed as co-debtors. This intricate setup underscores the complexity of unwinding Maverick’s financial challenges while preserving operational continuity.

Broader Implications for the Gaming Industry

Post-Pandemic Challenges

The Maverick Gaming saga highlights the broader struggles faced by the gaming industry in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. Elevated debt burdens and shifting consumer behavior have forced many operators to restructure their businesses.

Lessons from Persson’s Leadership

Eric Persson’s proactive approach to reclaiming assets and preserving jobs offers a case study in navigating financial turbulence. His ability to secure deals while maintaining customer and employee trust underscores the importance of strategic leadership in times of crisis.

Looking Ahead: What’s Next for Maverick Gaming?

While the Washington properties are secure, the fate of the Nevada casinos remains uncertain. Persson’s next moves will be closely watched as he continues to rebuild the Maverick brand. Industry observers will also monitor how the broader gaming sector adapts to ongoing economic pressures.