Doyle Brunson

Doyle Brunson, known as “Texas Dolly” and “Godfather of Poker” was a legendary figure in the world of poker. Born on August 10, 1933, he left an enduring legacy on the game. Over the course of his illustrious career, Brunson captured 10 World Series of Poker bracelets, including an impressive back-to-back victory and $6.1 million in earnings. Brunson’s influential poker books shaped Texas hold ’em and other games, transcending his victories. Regrettably, in May 2023, at the age of 89, Brunson passed away, leaving behind an enduring and remarkable legacy.

Doyle Brunson: Early Life

Doyle Brunson, was born in Texas, youngest of three children to John and Mealia Brunson. Brunson’s father, a farmer and cotton gin manager, kept a secret until Brunson’s mid-20s. His father had funded his older siblings’ college education through poker winnings.

Brunson’s journey took an unexpected turn when, as an undersized basketball player in high school, he was introduced to poker by friends. This happened the night before a crucial state tournament game. He excelled in baseball and track, but missed a scholarship due to a deadline. Brunson attended Hardin-Simmons University and played poker. Despite facing disciplinary issues for gambling, his athletic success spared him from suspension. A workplace accident ended his athletic career and led him to pursue a Master’s degree in education while playing poker.

Disillusioned by the low pay in education, Brunson shifted to a career selling business equipment. During a Fort Worth pool hall sales call, he played poker and matched a month’s salary in three hours. This marked the beginning of his journey into professional poker. Brunson’s growing poker skills led him to lead the Texas Rounders—a group of renowned gamblers who dominated Texas in the 1950s and 60s. However, they disbanded after losing a substantial bankroll in Las Vegas. Brunson stayed in Vegas, becoming a poker attraction with audiences gathering to watch him play.

Doyle Brunson: Poker Career

In 1970, when the World Series of Poker started, Brunson was among its inaugural participants. The series focused on cash games in various formats, diverging from the classic tournament style.

Moreover, Brunson is primarily known for his remarkable achievements in the WSOP. Between 1976 and 2005, he secured an impressive 10 WSOP bracelets, achieving several pioneering feats along the way. Notably, he was the first to clinch back-to-back WSOP Main Events in 1976 and 1977 and one of only four players to achieve multiple WSOP Main Event victories. Brunson also made history by becoming the first poker player to earn $1 million in tournament winnings. In 2004, he claimed victory in the Legends of Poker WPT event, making him the inaugural player to win both the WSOP Main Event and a WPT title.

Here’s a list of Doyle Brunson’s WSOP Bracelet victories.

• June 2005 – $5,000 Short Handed NLH—$367,800
• April 2003 – $2,000 H.O.R.S.E.—$84,080
• April 1998 – $1,500 Seven-Card Razz—$93,000
• May 1991 – $2,500 NLH—$208,000
• May 1979 – $600 Seven Card Stud – Mixed Doubles—$4,500
• May 1978 – $5,000 Seven-Card Stud—$69,000
• May 1977 – $10,000 NLH World Championship—$340,000
• May 1977 – $10,000 Seven-Card Stud Split—$52,500
• May 1976 – $10,000 NLH World Championship—$220,000
• May 1976 – $5,000 No Limit Deuce to Seven Draw—$90,250

Brunson’s poker career saw him earn nearly $1.5 million from those events, securing his membership in the exclusive club of WSOP and WPT titleholders. 

He also triumphed in NBC’s Poker After Dark series, winning $120,000. His tournament victories extend to prestigious events like Amarillo Slim’s Superbowl of Poker, America’s Cup of Poker, the Hall of Fame Poker Classic, and Queens Poker Classic Summer Edition. When not competing, Brunson frequented high-stakes games at Bellagio’s Bobby’s Room, often alongside poker legends like Amarillo Slim and Phil Ivey. 

His accomplishments earned him a spot in the Poker Hall of Fame in 1988, a testament to his enduring influence in the poker world.

Doyle Brunson: Poker Legend & Super System Author

Brunson authored “Doyle Brunson’s Super System: A Course in Power Poker” in 1979, a ground breaking comprehensive poker strategy book. It was so influential it got nicknamed the Bible of Poker. It featured contributions from other pro players and covered various poker variants. The book received high praise and sold over 300,000 copies globally. Brunson followed up with “Super System 2” in 2005, delving deeper into poker strategy and psychology.

In addition to his literary work, Brunson launched the online poker room “Doyle’s Room” in 2004. It was a popular online poker destination in the mid-2000s but is now discontinued. This also faced legal issues and severed ties. In 2005, a SEC investigation probed stock manipulation allegations, but Brunson was cleared due to insufficient evidence. Moreover, ACR Poker took ownership of the site in 2011. 

Brunson’s Personal Life

In 1962, Brunson met his wife, Louise, and they quickly married. During Louise’s pregnancy with their son Todd, Brunson faced a cancerous neck tumor with a grim prognosis but miraculously, it vanished. While Brunson didn’t pressure Todd to become a pro poker player, he provided guidance. Todd eventually won a WSOP bracelet in Omaha Hi-Lo. Doyle took pride in Todd’s achievements.

The Brunson’s had two daughters, with their first, Doyla, tragically passing away at eighteen due to a heart condition. This led Doyle to take a break from gambling to support his family. Pamela, their other daughter, enjoys poker and has played in the WSOP main event.

Brunson also made appearances in documentaries and films but was cautious about negative portrayals. He valued family and friends most, understanding that life’s true treasures often lie beyond the poker table’s attractiveness.

Furthermore, Bluff Magazine named Brunson the most influential figure in poker last 2006, a well-deserved recognition of his enduring impact on the game.

Conclusion

Doyle Brunson, the “Godfather of Poker” left a legacy on the poker world with his 10 WSOP bracelets and influential poker books. Despite facing health challenges, legal issues, and personal loss, Brunson’s legacy endures. His impact extends beyond the poker table, emphasizing the importance of family and friends in life. Bluff Magazine rightfully recognized him as the most influential figure in poker. Brunson’s contributions and enduring influence make him an unforgettable icon in the world of poker.