Phil Ivey has been labeled as the best poker contender on the globe by most of the top-ranked pros. Phil was born in Riverside, CA and moved to NJ before reaching the age of 1. His grandpa introduced him to penny-ante 5-Card Stud poker. From then on on, he was hooked on poker and wanted to learn whatever he could about poker. He routinely told his elders that he wanted to be a professional poker player. He didn’t let the adverse comments from others destroy his goal of being one of the best poker players on the planet.

He started playing intently after acquiring a false ID by the name of Jerome. He honed his skills at the casinos of Atlantic City. The beginning few years for him were a learning experience and coming away with a win was not a common outcome at the time. He became known at the 2000 WSOP when he made two final tables and came away with his 1st World Series of Poker bracelet, in a two dollar, 500 Pot-Limit Omaha match. At the final table he defeated quite a few of the better known pros which includes "Amarillo Slim" Preston, David "Devilfish" Ulliot, and Phil Hellmuth, Jr.

Phil made a decision to take his skills to the successive level and moved out west to Vegas. Phil continues to play in "The Big Game" at the Bellagio with the greatest players in the world. Ivey credits his success to hard work and an immeasurable love for poker. Phil states that he is picking up skills every single day and is very abashed about his success. He admits to making errors in each session of poker and always strives to get better.

Even though Phil has come first in some big tournaments, he likes destroying money games on a regular basis.