Dave “Devilfish” Ulliott was more than just a professional poker player; he was a larger-than-life character who left an indelible mark on the world of poker. With his sharp wit, trademark swagger, and undeniable skill at the poker table, Ulliott became a household name in the UK and beyond, representing the quintessential poker pro at a time when the game was exploding in popularity. His journey from the streets of Hull to international poker fame is a story of resilience, charisma, and mastery of the game.
The Early Years: A Rough Start:
Born in 1954 in Kingston upon Hull, England, Dave Ulliott’s early life was far from glamorous. Raised in a working-class family, Ulliott left school at the age of 15 and soon found himself involved in a life of petty crime. His early years were marked by a series of run-ins with the law, including time spent in prison for safe-cracking and other criminal activities. However, it was during this period that Ulliott began honing his skills in poker and other gambling games, often playing with fellow inmates.
This rough-and-tumble upbringing shaped Ulliott’s approach to life and poker. He was streetwise, tough, and always ready to take a risk—qualities that would later serve him well at the poker table.
Rise to Poker Fame: The Devilfish is Born:
Ulliott’s journey to becoming “Devilfish” began in the late 1990s. He was a regular in the underground poker scene in the UK, but it wasn’t until he started traveling to the United States that he made a name for himself. His big break came in 1997 when he won the World Series of Poker (WSOP) in Las Vegas, securing his first WSOP bracelet in the $2,000 Pot Limit Hold’em event. This victory catapulted him into the limelight and earned him the nickname “Devilfish,” a moniker given to him by fellow poker player Steve “The Crown” Vaughan, who likened Ulliott’s aggressive playing style to the deadly pufferfish known as the devilfish.
Ulliott’s poker career took off from there. He became a regular on the international poker circuit, known for his fearless play, quick wit, and sharp tongue. His presence at the table was unmistakable—dressed in flashy suits, sunglasses perched on his nose, and a collection of rings adorning his fingers, Ulliott was the epitome of a poker star. But it wasn’t just his persona that made him famous; Ulliott was an exceptionally talented player who combined psychological insight with a deep understanding of the game.
Television Fame and Cultural Impact:
As poker grew in popularity in the early 2000s, Ulliott became one of the most recognizable faces in the game, thanks in large part to his appearances on televised poker shows. He was a star on programs like “Late Night Poker” in the UK, where his brash personality and poker prowess made him a fan favorite. His catchphrases and banter, often delivered in a thick Hull accent, became iconic.
Ulliott’s television presence helped bring poker to a wider audience in the UK and Europe, contributing to the poker boom of the 2000s. He wasn’t just a player; he was an entertainer, and his ability to connect with viewers helped demystify the game for many.
A Legacy Remembered:
Dave Ulliott’s life was not without its struggles. Despite his poker success, he faced personal challenges, including financial difficulties and health issues. However, his impact on the poker world remains profound. Ulliott passed away in 2015 at the age of 61 after a battle with cancer, leaving behind a legacy as one of the most influential poker players of his generation.
In 2017, he was posthumously inducted into the Poker Hall of Fame, a fitting tribute to a man who had done so much for the game. Dave “Devilfish” Ulliott will always be remembered as a pioneer of UK poker—a player whose skill, personality, and passion for the game made him a true legend in the world of poker.
Photo: Freepik
