One of the most influential poker player in the world with two time world championship under his belt, Doyle Brunson also known as “Texas Dolly”, has passed away at the age of 89.
Speaking on behalf of his family, Brunson’s agent, Brian Balsbaugh said, “It is with a heavy heart we announce the passing of our father, Doyle Brunson. We’ll have more to say over the coming days as we honor his legacy. Please keep Doyle and our family in your prayers. May he rest in peace.”
Brunson’s early days in poker were not exactly easy. Brunson started playing poker games illegally hosted by criminals, not supervised like now. Brunson was robbed several times. His first trip to Las Vegas with friends resulted in a complete loss.
Brunson then started playing at the World Series of Poker since the earliest iterations and have won the tournament 10 times tied with Johnny Chan and Phil Ivey reaching closest to Phil Hellmuth’s record of 16 wins.
Back in 2006, Bluff Magazine termed Brunson as the most influential poker player after his win in the World Series of Poker and World Poker Tour title. He also went on to win world championships in 1976 and 1977. Brunson was also inducted into the Poker Hall of Fame in 1988 at the age of 54.
Brunson was frequent in various poker tournaments with some of the highest stakes cash games in the world. He also wrote a book named “Super System” back in 1979 along with “Super System 2” which taught poker to millions of other player around the world.
Can’t believe this day has come, says Scotty Nguyen
Five-time World Series of Poker champion, Scotty Nguyen tweeted, “Can’t believe this day has come – you will always be held high in our hearts, the man, the myth, the legend & THE GODFATHER of poker baby! Mr Brunson, you made poker what it is baby! Thank you for what you give to all of us baby! RIP Mr Doyle Brunson THE GODFATHER OF POKER.”
World Series of Poker also tweeted showing respect to the legend saying, “Rest in Peace to the Biggest Legend of Them All. Thank you for being the consummate player and gentleman. No one will ever fill your seat.”
can’t believe this day has come – you will always be held high in our hearts, the man, the myth, the legend & THE GODFATHER of poker baby! Mr Brunson, you made poker what it is baby! thank you for what you give to all of us baby! RIP Mr Doyle Brunson THE GODFATHER OF POKER pic.twitter.com/TiwzjQfhCi
— Scotty Nguyen (@TheScottyNguyen) May 15, 2023