Poker Legend Doyle Brunson Dead at 89

Doyle Brunson, best known as “The Godfather of Poker” and one of the most dominant figures in the game, has died.

Brunson passed away Sunday, according to his agent, Brian Balsbaugh. His cause of death was not disclosed.

Balsbaugh posted a statement to Twitter from Brunson’s family … “It is with a heavy 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 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, affectionately called ‘Texas Dolly’ after the press misinterpreted a similar nickname that stuck, achieved much greatness in the world of poker. He won 10 World Series of Poker tournaments, second only to Phil Hellmuth‘s 16 victories.

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

Brunson was the first player to ever win $1 million in poker tournaments. He also penned a popular book entitled, “Super System,” which detailed poker strategies and was instrumental in luring people to the game.

At his last poker championship in 2016, Brunson came in sixth, but the result did nothing to hurt his reputation as one of the all-time best players.

His influence even touched those beyond the poker world. Actor James Woods tweeted in part, “This one is a heartbreaker. Doyle Brunson, the greatest poker player who ever lived, has cashed in his chips. A gentleman and a genuine legend.”

Brunson was 89.