Johnny Chan's signature poker site, Chan Poker, is no more. In a somewhat surprising announcement, officials from Chan Poker recently published a statement announcing the popular online poker site will be closing its virtual doors by August 21st, apparently due primarily to the far reaching effects of 2006's Unlawful Internet Gambling Enforcement Act.

Chan Poker was a part of the Ongame Network, and many industry analysts believed it was the site with the best chance to capitalize on the young but highly promising Asian poker market; unfortunately it seems this was not to be the case. Perhaps mostly a victim of bad timing, Chan Poker opened it's door's during the 2006 World Series Of Poker, just months before the devastating UIGEA was signed.

In the published statement, which can be found in it's entirety at PokerNews.com, the Customer Support team of Chan Poker reassured it customers that their online accounts are safe and accessible, although they do encourage players wishing to withdrawal their funds to do so sooner than later to avoid any rush. The Chan Poker Team also stated that they are in the process of finding a new site to transfer those customers who wish to keep playing online, hopefully while also honoring their accumulated and valuable Chan Poker player points.

Source: PokerRoad.com