Bobby Hoff, 'The Magician,' Passes Away at 74

Bobby Hoff, known as 'The Magician,' was one of the strongest and most respected cash game players in the world. His best result in the World Series of Poker was second place in the main event of 1979. Bobby Hoff learned to play poker in the 1960s and initially struggled with the game.

Bobby Hoff was influenced by James Roy, known as 'Long Goody,' whom he considered one of the best players in poker history. He mentioned that limit hold'em was rare in Texas and became popular in Las Vegas around 1970. Bobby Hoff recalled a legendary story about Fenton McCorkodale, known as 'Corky,' who was a master of no-limit hold'em.

Bobby Hoff described Johnny Moss as a declining player during their games in the early 1970s. He noted that Buck Buchanan was a tight player who rarely showed his hands.