Yokozuna facts for kids

Yokozuna is a special word that can mean two different things! It can refer to:

• Rodney Anoa'i, a famous American wrestler from the WWE, who used "Yokozuna" as his ring name.
• Yokozuna (sumo), which is the highest and most respected rank a sumo wrestler can achieve in Japan. It means "grand champion."

What is a Yokozuna in Sumo?

In the exciting world of sumo wrestling, a Yokozuna is the very best of the best. It's the highest rank a sumo wrestler can reach, like being the ultimate champion. This title is not just about winning matches; it also means the wrestler has great skill, strength, and a special spirit called hinkaku. This spirit includes qualities like dignity, grace, and humility.

Becoming a Grand Champion

To become a Yokozuna, a sumo wrestler must be incredibly strong and consistent. They usually need to win two major sumo tournaments in a row, or have a similar outstanding record. These tournaments are called basho and happen six times a year. A special committee then decides if a wrestler has the right skills and hinkaku to be promoted. Once a wrestler becomes a Yokozuna, they can never be demoted, even if they lose many matches. However, if they start losing too much, they are expected to retire from sumo.

The Special Yokozuna Ceremony

One of the most amazing things a Yokozuna does is the Dohyō-iri, which is a special ring-entering ceremony. Before the matches begin, the Yokozuna walks into the sumo ring wearing a thick, braided rope called a tsuna around their waist. This rope can weigh up to 33 pounds (15 kg)! Two other wrestlers help them: one carries a sword (the tachimochi), and another sweeps away bad luck (the tsuyuharai). The Yokozuna then performs a special dance to show their strength and purity, and to bless the ring.

68th yokozuna Asashoryū's Unryū-style Yokozuna Dohyō-iri

Famous Yokozuna Wrestlers

Throughout sumo history, only a small number of wrestlers have reached the Yokozuna rank. Each one is remembered for their incredible power and unique style. Some famous Yokozuna include Hakuhō, who holds the record for the most tournament wins, and Asashōryū, known for his fierce fighting spirit. These champions inspire many young sumo wrestlers to train hard and aim for the top.

A makuuchi match with the 69th yokozuna Hakuhō beating Dejima as the 68th yokozuna Asashōryū watches in the background

Images for kids

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  A Yokozuna (center) performing the ring-entering ceremony while flanked by a sword bearer on the left and dew sweeper on the right

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  The 11th Yokozuna, Shiranui Kōemon and the 13th Yokozuna, Kimenzan Tanigorō (1866)