Derick Elomina discovered poker at 14, playing home games with his high school friends. What began as a pastime quickly grew into a passion that shaped his career. By 21, he entered the poker industry as a field reporter — just old enough to step foot inside the casino. Starting as a hand reporter, he steadily honed his craft, blending sharp observation with growing writing skills. Known for his dedication, he constantly roams the floor to capture the action, conduct interviews, and deliver live updates. With a strong commitment to the game and a passion for telling poker’s stories, Derick continues to build his path in the industry.

Updated: 2026.01.10

Akihiro Kawaguchi is a Japanese professional poker player who has become a prominent figure in the international tournament circuit, widely recognized for his high-stakes success at the WSOP and his dominant presence in major Asian festivals like the APT and APPT. Known for his technical proficiency in both No Limit Hold’em and mixed games, he is considered one of the top-ranked players in the competitive Japanese poker community.

Career Earnings & Biggest Results

According to The Hendon Mob, his total live earnings stand at $91,400. His career-best cash of $23,349 was achieved at the 2024 World Series of Poker (WSOP) in Las Vegas, where he secured a 6th place finish in the $1,500 Limit Razz (Event #40). Kawaguchi has also found significant success in the Philippines, notably finishing 2nd in the 2024 Asian Poker Tour (APT) Manila Hyper Turbo High Roller for PHP 211,000 (∼$3,621). Earlier that year, he recorded a 43rd place finish in the APT Manila Main Event for PHP 316,000 (∼$5,427) and a 9th place finish in the Manila Super Series 19 Main Event for PHP 189,728 (∼$3,414). In 2025, he claimed a victory in the Manila Megastack 21 Double Stack event for PHP 121,476 (∼$2,085).

Biography & Poker Background

Originally from Japan and currently residing in Navi City, Kawaguchi has established himself as a disciplined and highly traveled competitor on the global stage. He is currently ranked 278th on the Japan All Time Money List and holds an impressive 74th place ranking among Japanese players in the Global Poker Index (GPI). His trajectory has seen him transition from regional tournaments in Asia to prestigious international championships, frequently recording cashes at the WSOP in Las Vegas and premier venues like Okada Manila and The Wynn. His consistent performance across various poker variants has solidified his status as a versatile and elite member of the modern Japanese circuit.

Play Style & Strategy

Kawaguchi is known for a highly adaptable and aggressive tournament strategy, often described as a player who applies significant pressure to his opponents during critical stages of a hand. His ability to navigate massive, diverse fields is evidenced by his final table appearances in both high-leverage “Limit Razz” formats and fast-paced “Hyper Turbo” events. He is particularly dangerous in the late stages of major championships, where he effectively uses his stack to leverage chip leads and force difficult folds, as seen in high-profile hands against seasoned regional professionals at the APT. This tactical versatility, combined with strong situational awareness, makes him a formidable threat in both hold’em and mixed game fields globally.

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