the truth about FL

[vader93490]

Let me just say that I've got nothing against Minnesota Fats. I think his mystique really helped pool to appeal to the masses. But, I know someone who played Fats many times years ago (in the 70's). And according to him, Fats would demand a spot from his opponents and still lose. My opinion of Fats' game is based on this information plus what I have read and heard from many pros, including Mosconi. I don't recall ever reading anything by Robert Byrne about Fats. But Byrne has actually won some tournaments. I don't recall Fats ever winning anything. His claim to fame is as a hustler. And, as I said before, I've heard lots of info that suggests he wasn't even so great at doing that.

If memory serves, Minnesota Fats placed fourth in one of the Jansco tournaments. I don't recall the year right off-hand but I believe it was about the time that the Jansco's started their Stardust events and I believe it was a 1p event.

Fats did have an uncanny ability for banking from what I've seen. There was a video for beginners that featured him and some of the banks he shot on it while he was playing eight ball weren't too shabby IMO. I don't believe the video is produced any more, but I see it pop up on Ebay once in a while.

I remember hearing stories about how he would get into eating contests with all kinds of people. There was one I heard about where he got into it with Omaha Fats and before it got underway Minnesota devoured an entire ham and said he wouldn't count it towards the final total.

 

[GeraldG]

Now that I've been to his website, I recognize his face. I must have seen him somewhere, but he's definitely no legend.

You're probably thinking of Mr. Potatohead.