Dave “Devilfish” Ulliott was one of the most charismatic and influential figures in professional poker. Born on April 4, 1954, in Hull, England, Ulliott’s path to stardom was as unconventional as his personality. He went from being a small-time gambler and safe-cracker to becoming a poker icon who left a lasting mark on the game. Known for his sharp wit, flashy style, and formidable skills at the table, Ulliott’s life was filled with high-stakes drama both in and out of poker.
Early Life and the Road to Poker:
Ulliott’s early life was far from glamorous. Growing up in a working-class family, he turned to gambling at an early age. By his teens, Ulliott was already involved in petty crimes, including safe-cracking and armed robbery. His early years were filled with brushes with the law, and he spent several stints in prison. However, it was during these tough times that Ulliott honed his skills in card games, playing for cigarettes and small stakes behind bars.
After getting out of prison in the 1980s, Ulliott decided to go straight and began playing poker more seriously in local clubs. He quickly built a reputation as a fierce competitor, with a particular affinity for the game of Texas Hold’em. His confidence, aggressiveness, and ability to read opponents set him apart from the average player.
Rise to Poker Stardom:
The 1990s saw Ulliott rise through the poker ranks, with his big break coming in 1997 at the World Series of Poker (WSOP) in Las Vegas. Ulliott won his first and only WSOP bracelet in Pot Limit Hold’em, a victory that solidified his status on the global poker stage. This win also earned him his now-famous nickname, “Devilfish,” coined by fellow player Stephen Au-Yeung after the dangerous, predatory fish.
Ulliott’s devil-may-care attitude and flashy persona made him a media favorite. He would often show up to tournaments in expensive suits, sporting gold rings and jewelry, with his trademark arrogance. Yet, his talent was undeniable, and he amassed over $6 million in career tournament earnings. One of his most memorable quotes from this period encapsulates his self-assured nature: “Some people say poker is 99% luck. Well, they obviously don’t know what they’re talking about.”
High Points and Legacy:
Aside from his WSOP victory, Ulliott’s most significant career achievement came in 2003 when he won the World Poker Tour (WPT) event in Tunica, Mississippi, earning $589,175. This victory showcased Ulliott’s flair for playing under pressure, further enhancing his reputation as one of the best British players of all time.
Throughout his career, Ulliott became a regular on televised poker shows, particularly in the UK, where his larger-than-life persona drew a huge following. He was a frequent competitor on “Late Night Poker,” a British TV show that helped popularize the game in Europe. As Ulliott once said, “I was born to play poker. It’s not just a game to me; it’s a way of life.”
Final Years and Death:
In his later years, Ulliott’s health declined, and he was diagnosed with terminal bowel and liver cancer in 2015. He passed away on April 6, 2015, at the age of 61, leaving behind a legacy as one of the most unforgettable characters in poker history. After his death, tributes poured in from across the poker community, with many remembering him for his sharp humor, fearlessness, and unmatched love for the game.
As poker pro Phil Hellmuth once said, “Devilfish wasn’t just a player; he was a legend. You always knew when he was at the table.”
Ulliott’s legacy lives on, not only through his poker accomplishments but in his autobiography, Devilfish: The Life & Times of a Poker Legend, where he shared his remarkable journey from the streets of Hull to poker superstardom. His wit, charisma, and undeniable talent will ensure his place in the annals of poker history for generations to come.
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