NL Hold’em Poker- Who is Phil Ivey?

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Phil Ivey has been referred to as the number one poker competitor in the world by many of the top-ranked pros. Phil was born in Riverside, CA and moved to New Jersey before his first birthday. His grandfather taught Phil one cent-ante 5-Card Stud poker. From that point on, he was addicted to poker and wished to discover every little thing he could about the game. He routinely would tell his elders that he wanted to be a professional poker player. He didn’t allow the detrimental comments from others kill his goal of becoming one of the greatest poker competitors in the world.

He started playing seriously after getting a false ID by the name of Jerome. He honed his abilities at the poker rooms of Atlantic City. The beginning few years for Phil were a learning period and coming away with a win was not a regular thing at the time. Phil made his mark at the 2000 WSOP where he achieved two final tables and won his first WSOP bracelet, in a $2, five hundred Pot-Limit Omaha match. At the closing table he defeated a number of the better known professionals including "Amarillo Slim" Preston, David "Devilfish" Ulliot, and Phil Hellmuth, Jr.

Phil made a decision to take his skills to the next level and moved out west to Las Vegas. He continues to play in "The Big Game" at the Bellagio with the greatest players in the world. Phil credits his achievements to dedication and an undying love for the game of poker. Phil states that he’s picking up skills every day and is very humble about his success. Phil knows he makes mistakes every single session of poker and always strives to get better.

Even though Ivey has won some large tournaments, he favors destroying cash games on a regular basis.