Stu Ungar - September 8, 1953 - November 22, 1998

Stuart Errol Ungar was born September 8, 1953 and passed away November 22, 1998.

Stu was a professional poker and gin rummy player, and he was considered by many to be the best in history at both games. Ungar is the only three-time winner of the World Series of Poker Main Event tournament. He is also the only person to win Amarillo Slim's Super Bowl of Poker three times, the world's second most prestigious poker title during its time.

In 1980, Stu entered the World Series of Poker (WSOP) main event and won, defeating poker legend Doyle Brunson. Ungar became the youngest champion in WSOP history, although that would later be surpassedin 1989 by Phil Hellmuth. Ungar was dubbed "The Kid" as he looked younger than he was. He would successfully defend his WSOP title in 1981 by defeating Perry Green heads-up. 16 years later Stu was dubbed "The Comeback Kid" as he won the 1997 WSOP main event and the $1 million prize.

Including the 3 WSOP championships, Ungar has 5 World Series of Poker Bracelets, the other two coming in 1981 in the $10,000 Deuce to Seven Draw event and in 1983 in the $5,000 Seven Card Stud event.

Stu Ungar believed himself to be a better gin rummy player, than a poker player, as he says, "Some day, I suppose it's possible for someone to be a better no limit hold 'em player than me. I doubt it, but it could happen. But, I swear to you, I don't see how anyone could ever play gin better than me."

Suart Ungar was found dead in his room at the Oasis Motel in Las Vegas. The medical examiner concluded that he had died of a heart condition brought on by his years of drug abuse. Ungar died with no assets to his name, despite all his wins, due to drugs and gambling. Friend and fellow poker player Bob Stupak took up a collection at Ungar's funeral to raise funds to pay for the services.

A movie called High Roller: The Stu Ungar Story, was made in 2003 in which Ungar was portrayed by Michael Imperioli.


Fun Facts:

• Is considered to be the greatest No-Limit Hold'em player in history.
• Had huge success playing high-stakes gin rummy.
• Stu Ungar was inducted into the Poker Hall of Fame in 2001.
• Won 5 World Series of Poker Bracelets