Smith learned the game from his father, and started playing poker professionally. He was a standout basketball player at Hardin-Simmons University in Abilene, Texas, but knee injuries prevented him from pursuing the sport professionally. Canadian poker champion Gavin Smith passed away in his sleep Monday night in his Houston home. Brunson was an ambassador for the game, and he has had numerous tournaments named in his honor.īrunson was born in Longworth, Texas. He was a staple on the Las Vegas poker scene for decades and taught millions more how to play through his books, 'Super System' and 'Super System 2.' The original 'Super System' often is referred to as the bible of poker.

His last WSOP cash came in 2018, when he made the final table in the $10,000 2-7 lowball event.īeyond the tournament, Brunson consistently played in the highest stakes cash games in the world. Doyle Brunson, dubbed ‘The Godfather of Poker,’ has died at the age of 89, according to a family. They rose from their chairs to offer a standing ovation to the legend as he exited the room. Doyle Brunson, pictured here in 2013, was one of the most famous faces in poker history. At age 71, Brunson was concerned that his skills might not be enough anymore. In August 2004, the Texan had been on a rough streak and was on the verge of his first losing year after 50 years of playing poker full time. Action continued Wednesday at the Doyle Brunson North American Poker Championship.

As he aged, his WSOP main event elimination each year became a memorable moment, as it was announced to all the players in the tournament. The 10-time WSOP bracelet winner and poker legend still holds the record as the oldest person to ever win a WPT title. He was rarely seen without his cowboy hat and a big smile, a look that made him stand out even more during the poker boom of the early 2000s.

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