Jun Obara Claims Victory at Historic RGPS Mission RunGood Japan

In a landmark moment for global poker, Jun Obara emerged victorious at the inaugural 2025 RGPS Mission RunGood Japan, held in Tokyo’s vibrant Shinjuku district. The event, officially titled Event #22 NLH Colossus by Mission RunGood, marked a groundbreaking collaboration between the RunGood Poker Series (RGPS) and the Japan Open Poker Tour (JOPT). Obara’s triumph, earning him $26,053 and the first RunGood ring awarded outside the United States, underscored the growing popularity of poker in Japan.

A Massive Turnout in Tokyo

The tournament, hosted at the stunning La Belle Salle in Shinjuku, drew an impressive 1,585 entries for the modest ¥25,000 buy-in (approximately $175). This massive field made it one of the largest live poker events in JOPT history, reflecting the enthusiasm of Japan’s poker community. The $165,394.37 prize pool was distributed according to local regulations, with Obara securing the lion’s share after a thrilling final table performance.

The event’s success highlighted the synergy between RGPS, a staple of American poker, and JOPT, a leading force in Japan’s poker scene. The collaboration brought a fresh energy to the 2025 JOPT Grand Final, with over 160 poker tables creating a festival-like atmosphere.

Poker’s Growing Presence in Japan

With regulated live tournaments and a growing online scene, poker is becoming increasingly popular in Japan. Many poker sites that accept Japanese players offer easily accessible platforms for gamers who want to learn the game, practice, and compete. These sites cater to Japan’s poker community, providing safe and regulated environments for enthusiasts. The success of events like the RGPS Mission RunGood Japan is likely to expand online and nationwide participation in live poker.

Obara’s Path to Glory

Jun Obara, affectionately dubbed “misawa-san” by the tournament emcee, embodied the spirit of both RGPS and JOPT. Known for his skilful play and charismatic presence, Obara navigated a rollercoaster heads-up battle to claim the title. Early in the duel, he doubled up to take a commanding chip lead, and minutes later, he sealed the victory to a roaring crowd. The announcement of his win echoed through the venue, a testament to the entertainment-driven culture of Japanese poker.

Obara’s victory was more than a personal achievement, but it marked a milestone for international poker. As the first non-American to win a RunGood ring, he bridged two poker worlds, showcasing Japan’s potential as a global poker hub.

The Significance of RGPS in Japan

The RGPS Mission RunGood Japan was a bold step for the RunGood Poker Series, which has traditionally focused on U.S. stops, such as Jacksonville and Council Bluffs. The decision to partner with JOPT for its first international event paid off, drawing players from diverse backgrounds and showcasing poker’s universal appeal. The event’s success has sparked discussions about future international RGPS stops, with Japan now firmly on the poker map.

Key highlights of the event include:

• Historic Collaboration: The collaboration between RGPS and JOPT created a new model for poker events. This means they combined their efforts to organize poker games that bring together people from different cultures. It’s a significant achievement for these two groups in the poker world. It demonstrates how collaboration can make events more engaging and inclusive for everyone involved.
• Participation: A total of 1,585 people participated, highlighting the growing popularity of poker in Japan. This shows that many people in Japan are getting interested in playing poker. The large number of participants suggests that poker has captured the attention of many Japanese people.
• Cultural Fusion: The tournament combined the traditional American way of playing poker with the lively style of Japanese entertainment. This blend offered a special and unique experience for everyone involved.
• Venue Excellence: La Belle Salle boasts over 160 tables, providing an exceptional world-class location for hosting the JOPT Grand Final. This impressive venue ensures all guests and participants experience a top-tier atmosphere during the event.

Looking Ahead

The triumph of Jun Obara and the success of the RGPS Mission RunGood Japan signal a bright future for poker in Asia. With JOPT’s established infrastructure and RGPS’s innovative approach, more international collaborations seem inevitable. Poker fans can stay updated on upcoming RGPS events or explore Japan’s poker scene via trusted platforms. As the global poker community celebrates this milestone, Obara’s victory will be remembered as a pivotal moment in the game’s expansion.