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: 2026.04.03

Manabu Sato is a Japanese professional poker player who has become a rising competitor on the Asian poker circuit, recognized for his deep runs in major regional festivals like the World Poker Tour (WPT) and Manila Megastack.

Career Earnings & Biggest Results

According to The Hendon Mob, Manabu Sato has accumulated total live earnings of $7,943. He has established himself as a dangerous mid-stakes regular, particularly excelling in large-field championship structures across the Philippines and Thailand. His career-best score came at the APT Manila Classic 2025, where he finished 21st in the PHP 20,000 No Limit Hold’em – Double Stack for PHP 114,000 (∼$1,983).

Sato has demonstrated exceptional form throughout 2025 on the international stage. In August 2025, he traveled to the WPT Prime Thailand Exhibition, where he made a deep run in the THB 37,000 Championship, notably navigating the technical field to reach the final stages. Most recently, in December 2025, he competed at Manila Megastack 23 at the Okada Manila, finishing 127th in the PHP 45,000 No Limit Hold’em – Main Event for PHP 73,000 (∼$1,240). His steady accumulation of scores in prestigious regional festivals has solidified his status as a reliable competitor in the Asian market.

Biography & Poker Background

Originally from Japan, Sato is part of the robust community of Japanese players who have turned their focus toward the booming Southeast Asian markets. While he maintains a presence in the technical fields of his home country, his recent trajectory shows a dedicated commitment to the international circuit, traveling extensively to major festivals in Bangkok and Manila. He is currently ranked 1,726th on the Japan All Time Money List and continues to build his professional resume through high-volume participation in prominent tours.

Play Style & Strategy

Sato is known for an aggressive and opportunistic tournament strategy, particularly effective during the high-pressure bubble and late stages of Main Events. His play at the WPT Prime Thailand showcased a fearless approach to stack management, where he effectively utilized leverage to pressure opponents in critical pots. By successfully navigating both the large-field “Marathon” structures of the Manila Megastack and the technical demands of the APT circuit, he demonstrates a versatile strategy that allows him to exploit various opponent archetypes found across the Asian circuit.

Recent Attendances