Phil Ivey has been branded as the greatest poker competitor in the world by quite a few of the top professionals. Phil was born in Riverside, CA and relocated to NJ before his first birthday. His grandpa taught him one cent-ante 5-Card Stud poker. From that point on, Phil was hooked on poker and wanted to learn whatever he possibly could about poker. He would tell his parents that he was planning on being a professional poker player. He didn’t allow the detrimental comments from others destroy his goal of being one of the greatest poker players in the world.
He began playing intently after getting a false ID by the name of Jerome. He honed his techniques at the casinos of Atlantic City. The first number of years for him were a teaching opportunity and coming away with a win wasn’t a common thing at the time. He made his mark at the 2000 World Series of Poker when he made two final tables and won his 1st World Series of Poker bracelet, in a $2, five hundred Pot-Limit Omaha event. At the last table he defeated quite a few of the better known professionals including but not limited to "Amarillo Slim" Preston, David "Devilfish" Ulliot, and Phil Hellmuth, Jr.
Phil made a decision to take his game to the successive level and headed out west to Vegas. Phil continues to play in "The Big Game" at the Bellagio with the best players in the world. Phil credits his achievements to dedication and a continuing love for the game of poker. He says that he is learning every day and is very humble about his accomplishments. He admits to making blunders in each game of poker and always strives to get better.
Although Ivey has come first in some big tournaments, he prefers destroying cash games on a regular basis.
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