Cold 4-bet
A 4-bet made by a player who has not yet put money in the pot — someone behind both the opener and the 3-bettor. It represents an extremely strong hand because the player is up against two ranges that have already shown strength.
Frequently asked questions
What is a cold 4-bet?
Four-betting a pot you had not yet entered — one player opens, another three-bets, and you raise again from behind without having acted. 'Cold' means you had no chips in.
How strong is a cold 4-bet?
Very. You are raising into two ranges that have already shown strength, so the hands that can do it profitably are few: the top premiums, plus occasional blocker bluffs against opponents who three-bet far too often.
How should you respond to one?
With respect. Unless the player has shown they do it light, treat the range as roughly the top of the deck — continue with your strongest holdings and fold the hands that only beat a bluff.