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: 2025.12.22

Yao Liu is a professional poker player from China who has become a prominent fixture in the Asian and international circuit, particularly known for his proficiency in both No Limit Hold’em and Pot Limit Omaha. He is currently ranked 588th on the China All Time Money List.

Career Earnings & Biggest Results

According to The Hendon Mob, Yao Liu has total earnings of $154,637. His career reached a significant milestone in 2025, a year in which he earned over $141,000 in live tournament cashes. His biggest career score to date is $51,305, though he has consistently secured multiple first-place finishes in regional mixed-game festivals.

Liu has been exceptionally dominant in the South Korean circuit throughout late 2025. During the Jeju Poker Festival in November 2025, he captured three separate titles, winning the Seven Card Stud Mixed for KRW 3,565,000 (~$2,450), the Seven Card Stud 3 Game Mix for KRW 3,963,000 (~$2,777), and a Pot Limit Omaha Mystery Bounty event for KRW 5,400,000 (~$3,783). His success also extends to the Australian circuit, where he secured a 3rd place finish in the WSOP Circuit Sydney Mini Mystery Bounty for AUD 5,200 (~$3,400) and another 3rd place in the AUD 880 Pot Limit Omaha event for AUD 10,644 (~$6,950).

Biography & Poker Background

Originally from China and residing in the country, Liu has transitioned from a regional competitor to an international professional with a heavy focus on the booming Asian market. He is a frequent participant in major festivals including the World Series of Poker (WSOP) Circuit, WPT Prime, and the Asian Poker Tour (APT).

While he has recorded professional results dating back several years, 2025 marked his most prolific season to date, crossing the $100,000 career earnings threshold. He is recognized as a versatile specialist who frequently travels between Jeju, Manila, and Sydney to compete in high-stakes mixed game and PLO events.

Play Style & Strategy

Liu is known for a versatile and technically deep play style, excelling in non-standard formats such as 9 Game Mix and Seven Card Stud. His ability to win multiple mixed-game titles in a single festival demonstrates a sophisticated understanding of game dynamics beyond standard No Limit Hold’em.

He is recognized for his aggressive approach in Pot Limit Omaha, particularly in “Bounty” and “Mystery Bounty” structures where he effectively leverages his stack to pressure opponents. His strategy relies on high-volume play and tactical adaptability, as evidenced by his frequent deep runs in both technical high-roller mixed events and massive-field mystery bounty tournaments. This ability to switch gears between diverse poker variants makes him one of the most well-rounded Chinese regulars on the modern circuit.

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