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: 2026.01.02

Mauricio Salazar Sanchez is a Colombian professional poker player who has ascended to the elite ranks of the international high roller circuit. He currently occupies the 2nd position on the Colombia All Time Money List and is recognized as a formidable regular in the most prestigious tours across Europe and Asia.

Career Earnings & Biggest Results

According to The Hendon Mob, Mauricio Salazar Sanchez has total earnings of $2,566,366. His career-defining victory occurred at the European Poker Tour (EPT) Monte Carlo in May 2024, where he finished 2nd in the €25,000 No Limit Hold’em High Roller for a career-best €950,000 (∼$1,014,502).

Sanchez has proven his elite status on the Triton Poker circuit, notably finishing 11th in the Triton Poker Super High Roller Series Montenegro $125,000 Main Event for $406,000. He also dominated the Asia Pacific Poker Tour (APPT) Cambodia in May 2025, where he secured a victory in the $10,000 Super High Roller for $42,811. His 2025 campaign remained strong with deep runs at the EPT Barcelona, where he earned €47,100 (∼$54,937) in the High Roller, and a 12th-place finish in the TLPT Super High Roller Series Main Event in Jeju for $52,000.

Biography & Poker Background

Originally from Medellín, Colombia, Sanchez has transitioned from a regional standout to a global high-stakes regular. He crossed the $2,000,000 career earnings milestone in 2024, a year that saw him capture massive scores across different continents.

His journey involves a disciplined progression through the stakes, from early results in the Latin American Poker Tour (LAPT) to becoming a threat at the World Series of Poker (WSOP) in Las Vegas, where he cashed for $35,000 in the 2025 Main Event. Sanchez spends much of his year traveling the global circuit, with a significant presence in South Korea and Vietnam.

Play Style & Strategy

Sanchez is known for a versatile and highly analytical play style that allows him to compete against the world’s best GTO-focused players. His success in massive-field events like the EPT Mystery Bounty and high-stakes fields in the Triton Series demonstrates his ability to adapt his strategy between exploitative play and balanced ranges.

He is particularly dangerous in high-pressure “bubble” and final table situations, where he effectively leverages his stack against opponents. His historic double-title run at APPT Cambodia further highlights his resilience and ability to navigate high-stakes tournament variance with composure.

Recent Attendances