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

Yuki Kurokawa is a Japanese professional poker player who has established himself as a consistent contender in the Manila and regional Asian poker scenes.

Career Earnings & Biggest Results

According to The Hendon Mob, his total earnings stand at $2,175. Kurokawa has demonstrated a particular talent for navigating short-handed and fast-paced tournament formats. He achieved his career-best live cash in March 2025 at Manila Megastack 22 in PokerStars LIVE Manila , where he finished as the runner-up in the Win The Button Turbo event, earning PHP 81,655 (∼$1,425). Later that year, in December 2025, he returned to the final table at Manila Megastack 23, securing a 4th-place finish in the NLH – 10/10/10 event for PHP 44,000 (∼$750).

Biography & Poker Background

Originally from Japan, Kurokawa is a regular traveler to the Philippines, which has become his primary hunting ground for tournament titles. He began appearing in major regional results in early 2025, quickly adapting to the competitive international circuit. His trajectory suggests a focus on mid-stakes professional growth, leveraging established Asian series like the Manila Megastack to build his reputation and bankroll within the Japanese poker community.

Play Style & Strategy

Kurokawa is known for a tactical and aggressive approach, especially in specialty variants like “Win The Button,” which reward players who can capitalize on positional advantages. His consistent final table appearances in field sizes of roughly 45 entries indicate a strong ability to exploit small-field dynamics and navigate the high-variance nature of turbo structures. He maintains a disciplined strategy that emphasizes timing and pressure, making him a formidable opponent during the late stages of tournament play.

Recent Attendances