Phil Ivey has been referred to as the best poker contender in the world by most of the top-ranked pros. He was born in Riverside, CA and relocated to NJ before reaching turning one. His papa taught him one cent-ante 5-Card Stud poker. From then on on, Phil was addicted to poker and wanted to discover anything he possibly could about the game. He would tell his elders that he was planning on being a professional poker player. He didn’t let the adverse comments from others kill his dream of being one of the best poker players in the world.
Phil started playing seriously after acquiring a false ID with the name of Jerome. He honed his abilities at the poker rooms of Atlantic City. The first few years for Phil were a learning experience and coming away with a win wasn’t a common outcome at the time. Phil became known at the 2000 WSOP where he made two final tables and came away with his first World Series of Poker bracelet, in a two dollar, 500 Pot-Limit Omaha game. At the final table he destroyed many of the well known professionals which includes "Amarillo Slim" Preston, David "Devilfish" Ulliot, and Phil Hellmuth, Jr.
Phil decided to take his skills to the successive level and headed out west to Las Vegas. He continues to play in "The Big Game" at the Bellagio with the greatest players on the planet. Phil credits his achievements to dedication and a continuing passion for poker. He states that he is picking up skills every single day and is quite humble about his success. Phil admits to making blunders in each game of poker and always strives to get better.
Although Ivey has won some large tournaments, he favors winning cash games on a regular basis.