Meanwhile, Walt Disney's ESPN had been airing dull, static broadcasts of the World Series of Poker, the storied tournament started by Las Vegas casino owner Jack Binion in 1970.

FORBES: Poker's New Suit

The first occurred in 1970, when Benny Binion, a colourful cove who was alleged once to have been a bootlegger in Dallas, started the World Series of Poker at his Horseshoe casino in Las Vegas, where it is still played today.

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