UK Poker Legend Dave "Devilfish" Ulliott Fighting Cancer

Reports about Ulliott's illness surfaced on poker forums over the weekend and dozens of posts of encouragement have appeared on Ulliott's Facebook page in support.

The severity of Ulliott's illness has not been made public although those close to him have indicated it is in a fairly advanced stage.

According to a post from Simon Trumper, Dawn to Dusk Poker Club director, Ulliott is at home in Hull and touched by the outpouring of support:

"I have been literally inundated with messages about my pal David Ulliott. I am still in Thailand but Rob has been to catch up with him at his home in Hull and whilst it's important to completely respect Dave's privacy I got this message and photo from Rob who said it was fine for me to share.

"So I get the Devil's house and he is having a nap, waited a few hours and decided not to wake him up and I get half way back to Notts and his wife mails me that he has woke up and said 'tell that xxxx to turn the xxxx round and get back here', so I went back to Hull and The Fish entertained me and Numpty till 5am on the piano and guitar.

"He's spending some quality time with his family and is really touched by all of the wishes of support from everyone."

Staple of Late Night Poker a Global Icon

The irascible Ulliott was one of the first players to bring poker to prominence via televised shows including the groundbreaking Late Night Poker in the UK.

Ulliott: Has inspired and entertained millions.

 

Never shying away from less-than-shiny past Ulliott's captivating personality and playing style resonated with innumerable poker fans over the years and the outpouring of support has been substantial.

Among the messages and pictures posted by fans and friends around the world:

"Such shitty news about such a legend. Stay strong pal pull one out the bag for us all. ABSO LEGEND"

"Stay strong devil fish thoughts and prayers with you and the family"

"All the best devilfish. Watching you on late nite poker, got me into the great game. Your facebook updates have me in fits of laughter. Your an inspiration mate."

"I'm sorry to hear the news mate. I know you will pull through it! This will just be another page to put in your next book"

The Godfather of Poker has also sent his thoughts:

If Devilfish has bad health problems, maybe we should try to get him in the Poker Hall Of Fame now.@devilfish2011

Updates and more messages of support can be found on Ulliott's Facebook page.