Doyle Brunson, the legendary godfather of poker, passed away on December 1, 2021, at the age of 89. Brunson was a true icon in the world of poker, having won 10 World Series of Poker (WSOP) bracelets and two Main Event titles. He was also a prolific author, having written several books on poker strategy that are still widely read today.

Born in Longworth, Texas, in 1933, Brunson grew up in a family of farmers. He attended Hardin-Simmons University in Abilene, Texas, where he played basketball and studied business. After college, Brunson worked as a salesman for a company that sold office equipment. However, he soon discovered that he could make more money playing poker than he could in his day job.

Brunson began playing poker in the 1950s, when the game was still largely played in backrooms and underground clubs. He quickly developed a reputation as one of the best players in Texas, and he soon began traveling to Las Vegas to play in the big games there.

Brunson’s first major tournament win came in 1976, when he won the WSOP Main Event. He repeated the feat the following year, becoming the first player to win back-to-back Main Event titles. In total, Brunson won 10 WSOP bracelets over the course of his career, including two in the $10,000 No-Limit Hold’em Championship event.

In addition to his success on the tournament circuit, Brunson was also known for his high-stakes cash game play. He was a regular in the “Big Game” at the Bellagio casino in Las Vegas, where he played against other top pros for stakes as high as $4,000/$8,000.

Brunson was also a prolific author, having written several books on poker strategy. His most famous work is “Super/System,” which is widely regarded as one of the most important poker books ever written. The book covers a wide range of topics, including Texas Hold’em, Seven-Card Stud, and Omaha, and it features contributions from some of the top players of the time.

Brunson’s impact on the game of poker cannot be overstated. He was one of the first players to take a scientific approach to the game, using math and statistics to make better decisions at the table. He also helped popularize Texas Hold’em, which is now the most popular form of poker in the world.

In addition to his contributions to the game of poker, Brunson was also known for his generosity and his willingness to help other players. He was a mentor to many young players, and he was always willing to share his knowledge and experience with others.

In conclusion, Doyle Brunson was a true legend in the world of poker. His impact on the game will be felt for generations to come, and his legacy will continue to inspire players around the world. Rest in peace, Doyle.