Everton hero Thomas Gravesen’s crazy move to Vegas to become pro poker player

As a professional footballer, Thomas Gravesen always went against the grain – you don't earn the nickname 'Mad Dog' for nothing.

But after hanging up his boots, in 2008, Gravesen took to a career under the bright lights of Las Vegas as a professional poker player.

Gravesen had enjoyed successful spells with Hamburg and Everton before an unforgettable one year stint at Real Madrid.

However, it's perhaps his five-year spell on Merseyside that the Danish midfielder is best remembered.

But Gravesen walked away from the game, at 33, and he soon reappeared at a poker table in Vegas with his millions.

As a footballer, Gravesen reportedly earned £85,000-per-week at Real Madrid.

And, always preparing for life after football, a series of savy investments as a professional skyrocketed the Dane's net worth.

According to Danish outlet BT, these investments led to Gravesen acquiring 'tens of millions'.

Rather than sitting on his fortune, Gravesen took his money and ran to Sin City.

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Gravesen didn't just jump into his new venture half-heartedly, and he swapped Scandinavia for the desert with a plush new pad.

According to the same report, Gravesen settled in the affluent Summerlin area on the edge of the Spring Mountains with Red Rock Canyon nearby.

In 2007, National Geographic Adventure named it the number one place to live and play near Vegas.

Homes inside the area can cost as much as £5million with an average annual income of £120,000.

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Of course, Mad Dog wasn't alone in Vegas, and he settled down with Czech-American stunner Kamila Persse.

The pair had met in Europe, and moved to the US together.

BT also reported that the pair are said to 'love' the casino circuit in Las Vegas, and they're regularly spotted in bars along the strip.

Persse is also spotted at Gravesen's side during games of poker, blackjack and roulette.

As well as his newfound life in Vegas, Gravesen earned fame for his off-field antics while still in Europe.

Gravesen once fought with Robinho at Real Madrid, and he once 'play wrestled' with Ronaldo, which led to the Brazilian losing some teeth.