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: 2026.01.05

Ivan Karatayeu is a professional poker player from Belarus who has rapidly ascended the ranks of the international circuit, with a strong focus on the burgeoning Asian poker markets. Currently ranked 61st on the Belarus All Time Money List, he is recognized as a formidable competitor in mid-to-high stakes tournaments across Europe and Asia.

Career Earnings & Biggest Results

According to The Hendon Mob, Ivan Karatayeu has accumulated total live earnings of $155,987. His career reached a significant milestone in November 2025 at the Jeju Poker Festival in South Korea, where he finished 6th in the KRW 2,500,000 Red Dragon Championship for a career-best score of KRW 69,170,000 ($47,817).

Karatayeu has been remarkably active in Cambodia throughout 2025. He recorded a 15th-place finish in the Asia Pacific Poker Tour (APPT) Cambodia Main Event for $9,486 and a 60th-place finish in the World Poker Tour (WPT) Cambodia Championship for $8,600. His versatility is also evident in Europe, where he secured $16,043 for a 10th-place finish at the Eureka Poker Tour Rozvadov and $14,820 for a deep run in the Estrellas Poker Tour (ESPT) Barcelona Main Event.

Biography & Poker Background

Originally from Belarus, Karatayeu has transitioned from the European tournament scene to becoming a regular fixture in high-profile Asian festivals. He first made his mark in the Czech Republic, securing a victory in a WSOP Circuit (WSOPC) Night Turbo event in Rozvadov in 2021.

In recent years, his focus has shifted toward the major tours in Vietnam, South Korea, and Cambodia. Whether competing in the U Series of Poker (USOP) in Hai Phong, where he finished 3rd in a Mini High Roller for $8,680, or leading the field in the WPT Cambodia Championship, Karatayeu has built a reputation as a resilient and world-traveling professional.

Play Style & Strategy

Karatayeu is known for an aggressive and “big stack” oriented play style, a trait that was notably highlighted during the WPT Cambodia Championship when he surged to an overwhelming chip lead of 397,000 during the early stages of the event. His ability to “muscle” his way through pots and apply maximum pressure to opponents makes him a dangerous presence at the table.

His strategy appears deeply rooted in modern tournament dynamics, excelling in both large-field Main Events and technical High Roller formats. By leveraging his experience from various global fields, ranging from the GTO-heavy environments of the EPT to the exploitative arenas of the APT and RDPT, Karatayeu maintains a flexible and highly effective tactical approach.

Recent Attendances