Updated on May 19, 2023
| Net Worth | $75 million |
| Total Winnings | $6.2 million |
| Major Wins | WSOP Main Event 1976 and 1977; 10 WSOP bracelets; WPT Legends of Poker; was a regular player in the “Big Game” at Bellagio |
| Other Revenue | Author, brand ambassador |
Early this week, the poker world woke up to the sad news of Texas Dolly's passing. Poker lost a true legend, the kind that we don't think are made today anymore.
Doyle Brunson left an indelible mark on the world of poker. He was not only an icon, but also a pioneer in the game, revolutionising the way we approach poker strategy with his book Super System. His contributions to the sport will be remembered for generations to come. While it is with a heavy heart that we bid farewell to this remarkable individual, it is also important to reflect on the incredible legacy he leaves behind.
Throughout his illustrious career, Doyle Brunson achieved unprecedented success both at the poker tables and as a prominent figure in the industry. Recognised as one of the greatest poker players of all time, he amassed an impressive net worth through his exceptional skill, strategic acumen, and unwavering dedication to the game.
However, it is important to remember that Doyle Brunson's life and accomplishments extend far beyond his financial achievements. His influence on the poker community and his role in popularising the game cannot be overstated. He leaves behind a lasting legacy that transcends mere numbers and statistics.
The late Godfather of Poker has seen it all, from old-school underground poker games to the early days of the World Series of Poker to the world of televised poker.
His legendary status, distinctive Texas cowboy features, and congenial personality have allowed Brunson to profit beyond the poker table.
An almost-unmatched knowledge of the game and its history also helps. Not many players can compete with Brunson’s brand awareness within poker.
Net worth: $75 million
Key income streams: Poker, book author, brand ambassador
Poker Winnings and Key Tournaments
In a career dating back decades, Brunson saw it all in the world of poker. He was born in 1933 and grew up in the West Texas town Longworth. Brunson earned a master’s degree from Hardin-Simmons University but found he had a knack for poker.
After graduating, Brunson accepted a job as a salesman. However, he could make more money playing a few hours of poker than his sales job brought in an entire month.
Brunson began travelling the “southern circuit” looking for poker games around Texas and other states. Carrying a gun to avoid robberies was a part of doing business. Brunson was a victim several times – with a knife once put to his neck and a gun in his face.
| “That was a typical thing back in those days,” Brunson said. “You had to be very careful getting out of those places because a lot of times, people would be waiting on you. The thought that someone would put a knife to your throat just sent chills down your spine.” |
When Benny Binion launched the first World Series of Poker in 1970, Brunson was one of the first players. In 1976-77, he won back-to-back WSOP Main Event titles. He has accumulated 10 WSOP bracelets and remains tied with Phil Ivey and Johnny Chan behind Phil Hellmuth.
- Beyond the WSOP, Brunson holds the record as the oldest winner of a World Poker Tour event.
- He won the Legends of Poker at the Bicycle Casino in 2004 at age 71, scoring $1.1 million.
Even late into his 80s, Brunson still played in some of the biggest cash games in the world. He has even featured on High Stakes Poker and other televised poker shows.
Other Income Outside Poker
Beyond playing the game itself, Brunson was involved in other poker-related ventures that have added to his income. Perhaps one of the best-known is his work as an author. He penned several books, including Super/System: A Course in Power Poker, in 1978.
That work set the course for modern strategy books and remains a popular read for many players. Brunson has released several other works, including his autobiography, The Godfather of Poker.
At the height of the poker boom, Brunson even lent his name to an online poker site – fittingly named Doyle’s Room. In 2018, he also teamed up with his son Todd to launch the Brunson Poker Pro training course.
Poker was good to Brunson, and it appears he’s been put away some of those big winnings through the years. Not only did he have skills at the tables, he also had some excellent bankroll management.
His legacy as a pioneer, a champion, and an influential figure will forever be etched in the annals of the game. As we reflect on his remarkable life and accomplishments, let us honor his memory by embracing the spirit of competition, strategy, and the love of the game that he embodied. Doyle Brunson's impact will continue to shape the poker landscape, ensuring his presence is felt for generations to come. May Doyle Brunson's memory continue to inspire future generations of poker players, and may he rest in eternal peace.
*** Net worth estimate via CelebrityNetWorth.com
Originally Published on September 30, 2021
