Poker Legend Doyle Brunson Dead at 89

Doyle Brunson, finest often known as “The Godfather of Poker” and one of the vital dominant figures within the recreation, has died.

Brunson handed away Sunday, in accordance with his agent, Brian Balsbaugh. His explanation for demise was not disclosed.

Balsbaugh posted a press release to Twitter from Brunson’s household … “It’s with a heavy coronary heart we announce the passing of our father, Doyle Brunson. He was a beloved Christian man, husband, father and grandfather.”

The message continued, “We’ll have extra to say over the approaching days as we honor his legacy. Please preserve Doyle and our household in your prayers. Might he relaxation in peace.”

Brunson, affectionately known as ‘Texas Dolly’ after the press misinterpreted an identical nickname that caught, achieved a lot greatness on the planet of poker. He received 10 World Sequence of Poker tournaments, second solely to Phil Hellmuth‘s 16 victories.

The Texas-born playing cards icon additionally secured back-to-back world championships — in 1976 and 1977 — and was later inducted into the 1988 Poker Corridor of Fame.

Brunson was the primary participant to ever win $1 million in poker tournaments. He additionally penned a well-liked guide entitled, “Tremendous System,” which detailed poker methods and was instrumental in luring folks to the sport.

At his final poker championship in 2016, Brunson got here in sixth, however the outcome did nothing to harm his repute as one of many all-time finest gamers.

His affect even touched these past the poker world. Actor James Woods tweeted partially, “This one is a heartbreaker. Doyle Brunson, the best poker participant who ever lived, has cashed in his chips. A gentleman and a real legend.”

Brunson was 89.