Shocking Twist in Sumo: Discover Japan’s New Champion!

TOKYO (AP) — Japan has a new sumo grand champion, known as yokozuna. His name is Onosato, and he weighs 191 kilograms (421 pounds). This is significant because he is the first Japanese wrestler to reach this top rank since 2017. Historically, the yokozuna title has seen a dominance of Mongolian wrestlers, with six of the last seven champions hailing from Mongolia.

“I’ll devote myself to training to uphold the title of yokozuna,” Onosato said, appearing humble yet determined. He aims to be a unique yokozuna. His journey to the top came after winning both the recent Summer Grand Sumo Tournament and another prestigious tournament in March.

At just 24 years old, Onosato, whose real name is Daiki Nakamura, is poised to inspire others. He comes from Ishikawa Prefecture, an area recently affected by a devastating earthquake and tsunami in January 2024, which killed around 600 people and caused extensive damage. His drive to succeed is not just for himself; he wants to uplift his hometown. “I want to cheer up the Ishikawa prefecture and the Noto region,” he stated.

Sumo, Japan’s national sport, has deep roots going back over a thousand years. The rituals involved often tie into Shinto, Japan’s indigenous religion. Wrestlers typically live in communal training facilities where strict traditions dictate their diets and attire. This creates a unique environment that fosters discipline and dedication.

Some recent statistics point to a growing interest in sumo among younger audiences, especially on social media, where highlights from tournaments often go viral. This surge in popularity could reignite interest in the sport and perhaps lead to a resurgence of Japanese champions in the future.

Onosato’s promotion sets the stage for an exciting rivalry with Hoshoryu, another yokozuna who was born in Mongolia. The two are expected to face off in July in Nagoya, promising an intense match that many fans are eagerly anticipating.

For more information on sumo wrestling and its traditions, you can visit the Japan Sumo Association’s official site here.

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