Doyle Brunson, ‘The Godfather of Poker,’ useless at 89

LAS VEGAS — Doyle Brunson, one of the vital influential poker gamers of all time and a two-time world champion, died Sunday, in accordance with his agent. 

Brunson was 89. 

Brian Balsbaugh, Brunson’s agent, posted an announcement on Twitter from the household. 

“It’s with a heavy coronary heart we announce the passing of our father, Doyle Brunson,” the assertion learn. “He was a beloved Christian man, husband, father and grandfather. 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, known as the Godfather of Poker and also referred to as “Texas Dolly,” received 10 World Sequence of Poker tournaments — second solely to Phil Hellmuth’s 16.

He additionally captured world championships in 1976 and 1977 and was inducted into the Poker Corridor of Fame in 1988. 

He wrote a ebook known as “Tremendous System” in 1979, which was one of many first books to delve into poker technique and created a long-lasting affect that helped carry many others to the sport. 

5-time WSOP winner Scotty Nguyen tweeted that he “can’t imagine today has come – you’ll at all times be held excessive in our hearts, the person, the parable, the legend & THE GODFATHER of poker child! Mr Brunson, you made poker what it’s child! thanks for what you give to all of us child! RIP Mr Doyle Brunson THE GODFATHER OF POKER.” 

His affect carried past poker. 

“This one is a heartbreaker,” actor James Woods tweeted. “Doyle Brunson, the best poker participant who ever lived, has cashed in his chips. 

“Doyle was so form and useful to me. He was gracious to my late expensive brother and each pal I launched him to. A gentleman and a real legend.”