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: 2026.02.16

Elliot Thomas Nicholls is an Australian professional poker player who has established himself as a prominent figure in the Asia-Pacific circuit, particularly known for his deep runs in regional championships and his ability to navigate large, diverse fields.

Career Earnings & Biggest Results

According to The Hendon Mob, Elliot Thomas Nicholls has total earnings of $256,014. He has become a mainstay in major tours across the region, frequently appearing at final tables in the Asian Poker Tour (APT) and World Poker Tour (WPT) . His career-best live cash was earned at the WPT Prime Australia Main Event in 2024, where he secured a massive A$112,080 (∼$74,213) for a deep podium finish.

Nicholls also has a strong resume within the APT, notably cashing multiple times during the APT Taipei and APT Phu Quoc festivals. These consistent five-figure scores, including a significant win in a No Limit Hold’em – Single Day High Roller event for PHP 582,076 ($10,112), have significantly contributed to his poker net worth and status as a top-tier regular in the high-stakes Asian community.

Biography & Poker Background

Originally from Australia, Nicholls began his journey in the local casinos of Sydney and Melbourne before transitioning to the international stage. He spent his early years honing his skills in the competitive Australian mid-stakes scene, often grinding the Australia New Zealand Poker Tour (ANZPT).

In recent years, he has shifted his focus toward the booming Asian market, traveling extensively to compete in major festivals in Taiwan, Vietnam, and the Philippines. This “poker nomad” lifestyle has allowed him to build a reputation as a highly adaptable player who can thrive in various tournament environments, from coastal high-roller stops to massive metropolitan fields.

Play Style & Strategy

Nicholls is recognized for an aggressive and modern play style that blends high-level GTO awareness with sharp exploitative adjustments. He is particularly dangerous during the bubble phase and at final tables, where he effectively uses chip leverage to apply maximum pressure on his opponents.

His strategy relies heavily on his ability to read shifting table dynamics, a skill he developed through years of experience on the versatile Asian circuit. Whether he is navigating the polarized ranges of a high-roller field or the unpredictable tendencies of lower-stakes turbo tournaments, his disciplined approach and patience make him a formidable opponent in any No Limit Hold’em format.

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