Phil Ivey has been branded as the best poker contender in the world by many of the top-ranked pros. Phil Ivey was born in Riverside, CA and moved to Jersey before reaching the age of one. His grandfather taught him one cent-ante 5-Card Stud poker. From that point on, he was addicted to poker and wished to learn everything he could about the game. He routinely would tell his elders that he wanted to be a professional poker player. Phil didn’t allow the negative comments from others destroy his dream of being one of the greatest poker competitors in the world.

Phil began playing intently after acquiring a fake ID with the name of Jerome. He sharpened his abilities at the casinos of Atlantic City. The first number of years for him were a learning opportunity and winning was not a common outcome at the time. Phil became known at the 2000 World Series of Poker where he achieved 2 final tables and came away with his 1st World Series of Poker bracelet, in a two dollar, 500 Pot-Limit Omaha match. At the last table he destroyed a number of the better known professionals including "Amarillo Slim" Preston, David "Devilfish" Ulliot, and Phil Hellmuth, Jr.

Phil decided to take his game to the next level and moved out west to Vegas. Phil continues to compete in in "The Big Game" at the Bellagio with the best players on the planet. Phil credits his achievements to dedication and an immeasurable passion for the game of poker. Phil says that he’s picking up skills every day and is incredibly abashed about his achievements. He knows he makes blunders every single game of poker and constantly aspires to improve.

Even though Phil has won some big-time tournaments, he favors destroying money games on a normal basis.