I joined the Somuchpoker team in January 2025 as Head of Live Poker. With a strong background in client relations, I bring a fresh perspective and a customer-focused approach to everything we do. For me, delivering an outstanding customer experience is the top priority. It’s not just about running smooth and professional live poker events – it’s about making sure every player, partner, and guest feels truly valued and appreciated.My goal is to elevate Somuchpoker’s live events to a new level, combining operational excellence with a human touch that sets us apart in the global poker scene.

Updated: 2025.12.15

Hirokazu Kobayashi is a Japanese professional poker player and a top-ranked competitor on the Asian circuit, known for his success in High Roller events and deep runs in the World Series of Poker (WSOP).

Career Earnings & Biggest Results

With over $1.5 million in total live earnings (according to The Hendon Mob), Hirokazu Kobayashi ranks 15th on the Japan All Time Money List, cementing his status as one of the country’s elite players.

His career is defined by consistent five- and six-figure scores across the globe. His Best Live Cash of $192,515 highlights his ability to compete at the highest levels.

Kobayashi has had a standout 2024-2025 season. In July 2024, he reached the final table of the WSOP $5,000 No Limit Hold’em (8-Handed) in Las Vegas, finishing 7th for $108,895. Earlier in 2024, he narrowly missed a major title at the Asian Poker Tour (APT) Taipei, finishing 2nd in the Baby Superstar Challenge for NT$ 2,664,000 (~$84,410).

Biography & Poker Background

Residing in Minato-Ku, Japan, Hirokazu Kobayashi is a regular fixture at major international festivals, including the World Series of Poker (WSOP), European Poker Tour (EPT), and Asian Poker Tour (APT).

He is particularly active in the high-stakes circuit in Asia, frequently competing in “Super High Roller” and “Superstar Challenge” events in Taiwan and South Korea. His consistency is evident in his ranking, sitting comfortably inside the top 20 of Japan’s most successful players.

Hirokazu Kobayashi Poker Player at Gods of Poker

Play Style & Strategy

Kobayashi’s results indicate a versatile and aggressive tournament strategy. He thrives in High Roller fields, which typically feature tougher, more aggressive competition.

His ability to navigate massive fields is proven by his deep runs in marquee events like the WSOP Main Event (cashing in the 2024 edition) and the EPT Barcelona series. Furthermore, his success in Turbo and Hyper Turbo events—such as his 4th place finish in a 2024 EPT Barcelona Hyper Turbo—demonstrates exceptional short-stack fundamentals and ICM (Independent Chip Model) awareness.

Recent Attendances