WSOP Poker Champ and Author David Sklansky Dead at 78

Submitted by Ace King on

Written by :

Ace King

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David Sklansky

A recognizable name in the world of poker has passed away. 

David Sklansky is dead at 79. 

Skalnsky wrote "The Theory of Poker", which is widely considered the most important poker strategy book ever written.

Additionally, he wrote a number of strategy-oriented books focusing mostly on No Hold'em Poker. 

Skalnsky's Tournament Poker for Advanced Players is considered a definitive tournament strategy guide.

 His Hendon Mob profile sports $1.4 million in earnings from 1976-2017,

His other accomplishments include three World Series of Poker bracelets.   
1982 – $1,000 No Limit Hold’em
1983 – $1,000 Limit Hold’em
1985 – $10,000 No Limit 2-7 Draw Lowball

He died from heart failure. 

Skalnsky could be a controversial figure in the world of poker (see the X comments rolling in after his death was announced).   His relationship and subsequent breakup with poker player and model Brandi Hawbaker played out in public forums. Allegations of money owed / financial arrangements, manipulation and an extremely public airing of personal grievances helped to turn many against him.

Poker pro Chad Hollaway offered this: 

"Regardless of his thoughts & faults, there's no denying that he was one of the most influential individuals in the game of poker, especially in the 1970s and 80s. The Theory of Poker was a game-changer."

  • Ace King, Gambling911.com 

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