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

Yanbo Du is a Chinese professional poker player who has quickly risen to prominence within the Asian live tournament circuit, currently ranked among the top contenders in the 2026 Somuchpoker Player of the Year race.

Career Earnings & Biggest Results

According to The Hendon Mob, Yanbo Du has total live earnings of $25,330. While his recorded tournament history is relatively fresh compared to veteran high rollers, his performance at the start of 2026 has been exceptional, placing him at #3 on the SMP Poker Index with 972 points.

His recent momentum is highlighted by his deep run in the KPC x LPT Series 2026 held in Jeju Island. Competing in a field featuring several top-tier Asian pros, Du secured a top-five chip count during the festival, demonstrating his ability to maintain composure and build stacks in high-pressure championship environments.

Biography & Poker Background

Originally from China, Du is part of a new wave of aggressive Chinese players who have shifted their focus toward major international festivals in regional hubs like Jeju, Taipei, and Vietnam.

He has become a familiar face on the K Poker Cup (KPC) circuits, which have served as the primary stages for his recent success. His rapid ascent in the 2026 rankings suggests a high-volume approach to the game, as he continues to travel the Asian circuit to compete against the region’s elite.

Play Style & Strategy

Du is known for a modern, aggressive tournament strategy that prioritizes stack accumulation during the mid-to-late stages of play. His recent performance in Jeju, where he maneuvered through a competitive field to sit among the chip leaders, highlights his proficiency in navigating the technical demands of short-handed and final table play.

His ability to apply pressure on opponents while maintaining a top-tier ranking in the Somuchpoker Index marks him as a player who deeply understands the variance of live tournaments. As he continues to compete in major stops across the Asian Poker Tour (APT) and other regional series, his calculated risk-taking remains his greatest asset on the felt.

Recent Attendances