Amarillo Slim gets a beating after chasing poker debt
Friday 23rd January 2009
Former poker world champion Amarillo Slim, real name Thomas Preston, was recently the subject of a vicious assault when trying to settle an outstanding gambling debt. It is believed that the former world champion was due to collect a four wheeler vehicle as collateral against a $3,000 debt when he was jumped, robbed of $8,000 and a ring worth in the region of $85,000. Slim was taken to his local hospital where he underwent treatment for a broken jaw, hand and thumb but was later released to return home.
Those who follow the world of poker will know that Amarillo Slim was the World Series of Poker champion in 1972 and admitted to the Poker Hall of Fame in 1992 for his services to the sport. Even at the grand old age of 80 years old he still plying his trade in his hometown and taking many of the younger players of today to the cleaners.
While there is some suggestion that Amarillo Slim is mixing in "different circles" in his later years, his assault and theft episode has shocked many in the industry. While we have seen a substantial increase in both private poker games and tournaments, players need to be wary of who they play and where they play.
Former poker world champion Amarillo Slim, real name Thomas Preston, was recently the subject of a vicious assault when trying to settle an outstanding gambling debt. It is believed that the former world champion was due to collect a four wheeler vehicle as collateral against a $3,000 debt when he was jumped, robbed of $8,000 and a ring worth in the region of $85,000. Slim was taken to his local hospital where he underwent treatment for a broken jaw, hand and thumb but was later released to return home.