Phil Ivey has been referred to as the best poker competitor on the globe by most of the top pros. He was born in Riverside, CA and relocated to NJ before his first birthday. His papa taught Phil penny-ante Five-Card Stud poker. From that point on, he was hooked on poker and wanted to pickup anything he could about the game. He would tell his elders that he wanted to be a professional poker player. Phil did not let the adverse comments from others destroy his dream of being one of the strongest poker players in the world.

Phil started playing intently after acquiring a false ID by the name of Jerome. He sharpened his techniques at the casinos in Atlantic City. The initial few years for Phil were a teaching experience and winning wasn’t a regular thing at the time. He became known at the 2000 WSOP when he achieved two final tables and came away with his 1st World Series of Poker bracelet, in a two dollar, five hundred 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.

He decided to take his game to the next level and moved out west to Las Vegas. Phil continues to play in "The Big Game" at the Bellagio with the best players on the planet. Phil credits his success to dedication and an undying love for the game of poker. He says that he’s learning every single day and is quite humble about his achievements. He knows he makes errors every single game of poker and always aspires to get better.

Even though Phil has won some large tournaments, he favors destroying cash games on a regular basis.