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: 2026.01.07

Zhiyuan Meng is a Chinese professional poker player who has quickly established a presence in the South Korean tournament circuit. He is recognized as a rising competitor within the Asian market, frequently appearing at high-profile stops in Jeju.

Career Earnings & Biggest Results

According to The Hendon Mob, Zhiyuan Meng has total live earnings of $4,639. His career-best live cash of KRW 5,600,000 (∼$4,285) was achieved in December 2025 at the Gods of Poker (GOP) Eden Awakens festival in Jeju, South Korea. During this event, he secured a 7th-place finish in the KRW 900,000 No Limit Hold’em Titan Stack.

Meng has shown consistent performance in the regional mid-stakes scene, also recording a deep run in the GOP Mini Main Event where he finished 33rd for KRW 1,230,000 (∼$940). These results in late 2025 have provided him with a strong foundation as he begins to climb the ranks of the China All Time Money List.

Biography & Poker Background

Originally from China, Zhiyuan Meng has focused his professional efforts on the burgeoning poker hubs of East Asia. He is a frequent participant in major festivals held at the Landing Casino in Jeju, a premier destination for international tours such as the WPT, APT, and the K Poker Cup.

His trajectory in the poker world reflects a player dedicated to the live circuit, transitioning from local games to recognized international series. By maintaining a consistent presence in the South Korean market, Meng has positioned himself among a new wave of Chinese grinders who are successfully navigating the competitive fields of the Asian “High Roller” circuit.

Play Style & Strategy

Zhiyuan Meng is known for a tactical and patient play style, which was particularly evident during his final table appearance in the Titan Stack event. He excels in No Limit Hold’em formats that reward careful stack management and the ability to navigate varying field sizes.

His strategic approach involves a disciplined selection of spots, allowing him to outlast large fields in multi-day events. This adaptability, switching between the conservative play required for deep-stacked events and the aggression needed at the final table, makes him a formidable opponent in the evolving landscape of Asian tournament poker.

Recent Attendances