Doyle Brunson Receives Unanimous Support
At the World Series of Poker Paradise in Atlantis Bahamas, senior vice president Ty Stewart and vice president Jack Effel both voiced their agreement on one point: Doyle Brunson deserves a place on the Mount Rushmore of Poker. Brunson, also known as “Texas Dolly,” was a legendary figure in the poker world, winning the World Series of Poker in 1976 and 1977. With an impressive career that included 10 bracelets and 26 final tables, Brunson’s contributions cannot be overlooked.
“Doyle has to be first. Doyle has to be up there,” Effel emphasized. “The others, I think that’s the rest of the debate.”
A Contested Field for the Remaining Spots
While Brunson’s inclusion is undisputed, Effel and Stewart had differing opinions on who else should join him. Effel suggested Chris Moneymaker, crediting him with a significant role in transforming the poker landscape. However, Effel acknowledged that the remaining slots were up for debate.
“Johnny Moss might be one because he’s legendary,” Effel speculated. “But it may be Benny Binion instead because Benny Binion is responsible for having the World Series of Poker in the first place. I think maybe last but not least is probably Johnny Chan or Phil Hellmuth.”
Stewart, on the other hand, highlighted the impact of newer players. “I think Daniel Negreanu, who is here, kind of really helped revolutionize interest in the game over the last 15 to 20 years,” Stewart noted. “Phil Hellmuth is the best tournament poker player.”
Debate Continues with the World Series of Poker at the Center
Effel stressed that without the World Series of Poker, this debate would not exist. “The bottom line is that without the World Series of Poker, there wouldn’t be a debate in the first place,” he said.
Stewart echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the need for time to truly assess the contributions of players. “We’re starting with only one member that is deceased. So, we have so much of the history yet to be written that it’s probably too early to truly say,” Stewart explained. “It’s Doyle and everybody else fighting for the remaining spots.”
The Legacy of Moss and Binion
Johnny Moss, the winner of the first two World Series of Poker events in 1970 and 1971, holds a special place in the poker world. In 1974, he became the first person to win the tournament three times. His exceptional achievements make him a strong contender for the Mount Rushmore of Poker.
Benny Binion, the founder of Binion’s Horseshoe casino, hosted the inaugural World Series of Poker. The Binion family ran the casino until 2004, solidifying their place in poker history. The tournament has since moved locations, with the Rio hosting most of the days in 2005 and taking over as the full tournament venue in 2006. The 2022 event will be held at Bally’s.
As the debate rages on, the poker world eagerly awaits the final decision on who will join Brunson on the prestigious Mount Rushmore of Poker.
