The shocking news that US online poker legend Dusty “Leatherass” Schmidt died at age 40 has shaken the poker community.
Just heard the news that Dusty ‘Leatherass’ Schmidt has passed away. Terrible news, he was a really lovely guy and a legend of the early days of poker.
Jared Tendler and I owe Dusty a lot, he got Jared into the industry and was really helped us with Mental Game of Poker
Gutted pic.twitter.com/Xt4leHmAKd
— Barry Carter (@Barry_Carter) December 3, 2021
On December 2nd his close friend and golf pro Kevin Na posted on social media that Dusty Schmidt passed away at the age of 40. The cause of death was not immediately known.
Kevin Na wrote the following :
“He was a top Jr. rank golfer who played pro golf for short a period. Unfortunately, his career was cut short due to some health issues. He later in life found passion for the game of poker and became very successful at it. He even wrote few books on poker. Dusty caddied for me in US Jr US Am and even in Asian Tour event in S. Korea. He was a true friend that always there for me and rooted for me throughout my life. My thoughts and prayers to the Schmidt family. I will miss u my friend. Rest in Peace buddy.”
Dusty Schmidt was an iconic grinder and online poker legend
Dusty Schmidt, aka “Leatherass” online, rose to fame for being one of the first real online grinders. He was a multi-tabling genius, who had the highest win rate in NL$5/$10 and NL$10/$20 over a time span of two years.
He was also one of the first poker players, who achieved the legendary SuperNova Elite status on PokerStars.
A respected poker book author
It was during that time when Dusty Schmidt published his first poker book called “Treat Your Poker Like a Business”.
His biggest success with the great name “Don’t Listen to Phil Hellmuth” was published on the 5th of June 2021.
In recent years things calmed down significantly around Dusty Schmidt, since he had to take a step back from online poker due to health issues.
Leatherass was one of online poker’s OGs
“Leatherass” will always be remembered as one of the online poker’s OGs and cash game grinder legend. He leaves behind a wife and three children.
Terms and conditions apply. New customer offer and 18+ only. Should you require help regarding your betting pattern, please visit www.begambleaware.org.
