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: 2025.12.19

Naoki Nakada is a Japanese poker player who has recently made an impact in the Southeast Asian tournament circuit, particularly during flagship series in the Philippines.

Career Earnings & Biggest Results

According to The Hendon Mob, Naoki Nakada has recorded live earnings totaling approximately $2,842. Nakada achieved a significant result in late 2025 during the Manila Megastack 23 at PokerStars LIVE Manila.

His most notable performances at the festival include:

12th Place: No Limit Hold’em – Mystery Bounty (November 2025), earning PHP 65,000 (~$1,110).
5th Place: No Limit Hold’em – Flipout (December 2025), where he finished as one of the top Japanese competitors in the field.

These results contributed to his initial climb in regional rankings, specifically within the Japan-focused tournament leaderboards.

Biography & Poker Background

Originally from Japan, Nakada is part of a growing wave of Japanese players traveling to major Asian hubs like Manila to compete in international fields. He has focused his professional trajectory on the PokerStars LIVE circuit, establishing himself as a focused competitor in technical and fast-paced formats. His presence at festivals like the Manila Megastack demonstrates an ability to navigate the diverse, high-volume fields typical of the burgeoning Southeast Asian poker market.

Play Style & Strategy

Nakada is recognized for an adaptable play style, particularly effective in specialized tournament structures such as Mystery Bounty and Flipout events. His ability to secure deep runs and a top-five final table finish in these formats suggests a strong grasp of short-stack dynamics and the tactical aggression required for high-variance play. Known for his discipline, his strategy relies on calculated decision-making during the critical bubble and final table phases of international series.

Recent Attendances