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: 2026.01.08

Hakkaku Yusuke is a Japanese professional poker player who has become a consistent name in the Asian tournament circuit. He is currently gaining recognition for his performance in the 2025 and 2026 seasons, particularly in major regional festivals like the Japan Open Poker Tour (JOPT) and tournaments in Taiwan.

Career Earnings & Recent Results

According to the latest 2026 data from The Hendon Mob, Hakkaku Yusuke has total live earnings of approximately $5,274. While he is currently in the ascending phase of his professional career, his results in high-field events indicate a player with a high technical floor.

Notable career highlights include:

JOPT 2025 Grand Final (May 2025): Finished 109th in the ¥10,000 No Limit Hold’em – Mystery Bounty (Event #93), a significant achievement given the massive entry fields typical of the Grand Final in Tokyo.
Taiwan Series (2025): He recorded multiple deep runs in Taiwan, which has become a primary hub for his international play.
2026 Season Standing: As of early January 2026, he holds a Global Poker Index ranking of #107,801, reflecting his increased activity on the professional circuit over the last 12 months.

Biography & Poker Background

Originally from Japan, Yusuke is a prominent member of the “new wave” of Japanese grinders who have fueled the country’s recent poker boom. He is a frequent participant in the Japan Open Poker Tour (JOPT), the nation’s largest domestic series, and is often seen competing at major stops in South Korea and Taiwan.

Unlike high-profile veterans like Ryo Kotake or Yusuke Hidaka, Yusuke’s career is currently defined by high-volume participation in mid-to-high stakes championship events. He is part of the generation of players who have mastered the strategic nuances of modern tournament play through a combination of domestic JOPT experience and international exposure in the Asian Poker Tour (APT) ecosystem.

Play Style & Strategy

Yusuke is recognized for a disciplined and methodical tournament strategy. He is particularly effective in Mystery Bounty and Deepstack formats, where his ability to manage variance and navigate large-field dynamics has led to consistent “In The Money” (ITM) finishes.

Observers of the Japanese circuit note his calm table presence and sharp positional awareness. His success in the JOPT Grand Final, an event known for its grueling structures and elite local competition, highlights his mental stamina and ability to make high-pressure decisions. As he continues to expand his presence into hubs like Jeju and Taipei in 2026, Hakkaku is widely considered a “player to watch” for a major title breakthrough.

Recent Attendances