Takemi Munakata

Takemi Munakata is a Japanese professional poker player who has established himself as a formidable force on the Asian tournament circuit, particularly in mixed-game formats. According to The Hendon Mob, his total live earnings amount to $59,271, placing him 399th on the Japan All Time Money List. He is best known for his success in Dealer's Choice, 8-Game, and other rotation games.

Munakata's career-best live cash of $9,612 came in October 2019 at the Melbourne Poker Championships, where he finished 2nd in the A$1,150 No Limit Hold'em 6-Max event. This early result demonstrated his ability to compete internationally.

Munakata claimed his first Asian Poker Tour (APT) title in October 2024 at the APT Taipei Poker Classic. He won Event #102: 8 Game after an ICM deal with fellow countryman Hirotoshi Nakabo, taking home TWD 108,779 (~$3,325) and the trophy. The event attracted 72 entries.

In November 2025, during the APT Championship Taipei, he secured another victory in Event #45: NTD 7,000 Limit Dealer's Choice – Triple Draw, earning $2,394. He also finished 3rd in Event #17: NTD 10,000 Limit Super Stud at the same series.

In July 2025, Munakata won the Mixed Games – 9-Game Dealer's Choice event at the 18th Taiwan Millions Tournament (TMT), adding to his reputation as a versatile mixed-game specialist.

Most recently, at the APT Jeju Classic in South Korea (January 2026), Munakata placed 3rd in the KRW 700,000 Dealer's Choice event, earning KRW 2,600,000 (~$2,000). The tournament had 25 entrants.

Munakata is described as a tight-aggressive (TAG) player who emphasizes discipline and patience. He excels in complex mixed-game formats where math and game selection are crucial. His success in Dealer's Choice and 8-Game events highlights his deep understanding of multiple poker variants.