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: 2026.01.03

Yusuke Okazawa is a Japanese professional poker player who has become a consistent presence in the Asian tournament circuit, widely recognized as a rising regular in major festivals such as the APPT, APT, and local Japanese championships.

Career Earnings & Biggest Results

According to The Hendon Mob, his total live earnings stand at $12,562. His career-best cash of $10,783 was achieved in April 2018 at the Macau Millions, where he outlasted a competitive field to secure a 1st place victory in a No Limit Hold’em Deepstack event. Okazawa has maintained steady momentum in the regional scene, notably finishing as the runner-up in the 2019 AJPC Asian Circuit Incheon Deep Stack event for KRW 2,110,000 (∼$1,779). He is also a frequent contender in his home country, recording several deep runs in the Japan Open Poker Tour (JOPT) , including a 10th place finish in the 2020 JOPT Stars150 Bounty.

Biography & Poker Background

Originally from Japan, where he currently resides, Okazawa has established himself as a disciplined traveler on the international circuit. He is currently ranked among the top 1,300 players on the Japan All Time Money List. His trajectory as a player is rooted in the thriving Japanese poker community, frequently competing at premier venues across Tokyo before expanding his reach to major Asian hubs like Macau, South Korea, and the Philippines. Over the last few years, he has successfully transitioned from local tournaments to becoming a recognized figure in the “new wave” of Japanese professionals representing the region on the global stage.

Play Style & Strategy

Okazawa is known for a resilient and opportunistic tournament strategy, often excelling in the high-paced dynamics of deepstack and bounty formats. His victory in the Macau Millions deepstack event demonstrates a strong technical foundation and the ability to manage the volatile swings associated with large-field Asian tournaments. Whether he is competing in a high-leverage heads-up battle in Incheon or managing a chip stack through the late stages of a JOPT championship, his patient accumulation and tactical adjustments to the aggressive regional play style make him a formidable threat at any final table.

Recent Attendances