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: 2025.12.15

Takuma Endo is a Japanese professional poker player who has become a frequent competitor in the Asian poker circuit. He is characterized by a high volume of play in major festivals, with a recent breakout performance in Manila that showcased his ability to close out tournaments.

Career Earnings & Biggest Results

According to the The Hendon Mob, Endo has amassed approximately $37,681 in total live earnings. His most significant recent success occurred at the Manila Megastack 23 in December 2025, where he secured his first major festival title. He won the NLH 20/15/10 event, defeating the field to take home $2,710 (₱158,944).

In the same series, he demonstrated his consistency by making a deep run in the Sunday Millions event, navigating a field of 405 entries to reach the final table and finish 8th for $2,130 (₱125,000). These results have contributed to a strong closing season for 2025, adding to a resume that includes cashes in the World Series of Poker (WSOP) and other international tours.

Biography & Poker Background

Hailing from Japan, Takuma Endo has transitioned from the domestic Japanese scene to a full international schedule. His 2025 itinerary reflects a player committed to the global grind, with results spanning from the Japan Open Poker Tour (JOPT) in Tokyo to the Paradise City Poker Series in Incheon, South Korea, and the WSOP in Las Vegas. His willingness to travel to key poker hubs like Manila and Incheon highlights his ambition to compete against the region’s best regulars.

Play Style & Strategy

Endo’s tournament history reveals a player who excels in Deepstack and Bounty formats. His deep run in the WSOP Gladiators event suggests a patient, survival-oriented play style suitable for navigating navigating large-field variance. Conversely, his final table appearance in the APT Mystery Bounty Hunter indicates an ability to adjust his ranges to capitalize on knockout opportunities, making him a versatile threat in the modern tournament landscape.