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: 2026.01.10

Zhiqiang Zhang is a Chinese professional poker player who has become a prominent fixture in the high-stakes Asian tournament scene, particularly within the South Korean and Malaysian circuits.

Career Earnings & Biggest Results

According to The Hendon Mob, his total earnings reflect a career defined by consistent deep runs in major regional festivals. His breakout performance occurred at the K Poker Cup Series 2 in June 2025, where he navigated a massive field of 1,432 entries in the Main Event to finish 4th for a career-best score of KRW 80,480,000 (∼$59,000). Beyond this milestone, Zhang has demonstrated his versatility across various tours, including a 49th-place finish in the APT Incheon 2025 Main Event for KRW 8,160,000 (∼$5,900) and a 5th-place finish in the Jeju Poker Festival 2025 Hyper Turbo High Roller for KRW 7,920,000 (∼$5,700). These results showcase his ability to compete effectively in both massive-field championships and elite high-roller environments.

Biography & Poker Background

Originally from China, Zhang has focused his recent professional efforts on the booming poker hubs of East and Southeast Asia. He is frequently seen at the Asian Poker Tour (APT) and WPT Prime stops, moving seamlessly between the competitive landscapes of Jeju, South Korea, and Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. His trajectory highlights a transition from regional events to becoming a respected regular at major international festivals, often found grinding high-equity tournaments like the Poker Dream series and the Korea Poker Cup.

Play Style & Strategy

Zhang is recognized for a disciplined yet adaptable approach to tournament poker. He excels in No Limit Hold’em formats, particularly in navigating the complex ICM pressures of final tables and late-stage tournament play. Whether he is outlasting hundreds of opponents in a Main Event or battling in fast-paced Hyper Turbo High Rollers, his strategy revolves around calculated aggression and patience. This tactical flexibility allows him to thrive against the diverse playing styles found on the Asian circuit, from conservative grinders to high-stakes specialists.

Recent Attendances