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: 2026.01.06

Yixian Chen is a professional poker player who has quickly risen to prominence as a leading figure on the Asian poker circuit, currently holding the #1 spot on the 2026 Somuchpoker Player of the Year index.

Career Earnings & Biggest Results

According to The Hendon Mob, Yixian Chen has total earnings of $46,995. His career reached new heights at the start of 2026, where his consistent performance across major regional festivals solidified his position at the top of the Somuchpoker Index.

His most notable success has come after winning the Jeju Opening at KPC x LPT Series 2026 for KRW 64,000,000 (~$44,265) . While many players focus on a single tour, Chen has demonstrated his ability to cash in various prestigious events across the continent. These results have contributed significantly to his growing reputation as one of the most consistent mid-stakes grinders in the region.

Biography & Poker Background

Originally from China, Chen has become a fixture in the booming Asian market, frequently traveling between the high-stakes hubs of Taipei and Jeju. He is part of a new wave of aggressive players who have transitioned from high-volume online play to the live arena, quickly adapting to the unique dynamics of the Asian circuit. His consistent presence at festivals like the Korea Poker Cup (KPC) and Taiwan Millions Tournament (TMT) has solidified his reputation as one of the most active and successful grinders in the region today.

Play Style & Strategy

Chen is known for a highly calculated and relentless play style, excelling in the large-field No Limit Hold’em tournaments typical of the WPT Prime and APT series. He demonstrates a sophisticated understanding of ICM pressure, often using his stack to bully opponents during the bubble and final table approach. His ability to maintain a high win rate across various structures, from deep-stacked championships to fast-paced turbos, highlights a versatile strategy that relies on both mathematical foundations and sharp exploitative adjustments against local fields.

Recent Attendances