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Online Poker Legend Chad Batista Passes Away

35-Year-Old Was One Of Game's Most Fearless Players

by Brian Pempus  |  Published: Aug 21, 2015  |  

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Chad “lilholdem954” Batista, one of the original online poker stars, passed away on Thursday in Las Vegas, according to various postings on social media.

He was 34.

The Florida-native had nearly $1 million in lifetime live tournament earnings to go along with millions more on the Internet. He was one of the strongest players in the early days of online poker and played poker for a living for roughly 15 years.

He was known for having a hyper-aggressive playing style and relying heavily on instinct. He also would not shy away from speaking his mind, a personality trait many in poker loved and will remember.

“It is with the deepest sadness that we announce the sudden passing of our beloved son, nephew, cousin, brother and friend, Chad Batista,” his family said in a statement. “Chad died suddenly this beautiful Thursday afternoon with his family surrounding him. We ask that our privacy be respected at this difficult time and we thank you for your prayers.”

News of his passing generated an outpouring of condolences from the poker community.

Card Player TV interviewed Batista back in 2010 at a Las Vegas tournament:

 
 
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