Hoshoryu Becomes New Sumo Grand Champion

A significant milestone in the world of sumo wrestling occurred recently when Hoshoryu, a Mongolian wrestler, was promoted to the prestigious rank of yokozuna, or grand champion. This promotion took place during a ceremonial event held at the Meiji Shrine in Tokyo. Hoshoryu, whose real name is Sugarragchaa Byambasuren, is now the 74th yokozuna in the sport’s history. His rise to this elite status comes after a remarkable victory in a major tournament last week.
To achieve the rank of yokozuna, a wrestler must not only excel in competitions but also demonstrate exemplary conduct. This promotion is particularly noteworthy as it comes at a time when the sport was facing the possibility of having no grand champion for the first time in over 30 years. Hoshoryu’s ascent marks a new chapter in sumo, especially considering the legacy of his uncle, Asashoryu, a former yokozuna known for his controversial behavior. Hoshoryu has expressed his commitment to uphold the dignity of the title and to pave a different path than his uncle.
The Ceremony and Rituals of Promotion
The promotion ceremony for Hoshoryu attracted around 3,500 fans to the Meiji Shrine, where he participated in traditional rituals to receive his new title. The event was steeped in cultural significance, showcasing the deep-rooted traditions of sumo wrestling. During the ceremony, Hoshoryu donned the white rope belt that symbolizes the yokozuna rank. He performed a series of rituals that included clapping his hands, stamping his feet, and sitting in a low crouch for several minutes, all while the crowd applauded his efforts.
Despite his extensive preparation, Hoshoryu admitted to feeling more nervous than he had anticipated. “I practised a lot but I was still more nervous than I expected,” he shared after the ceremony. His dedication to performing the rituals correctly reflects the seriousness with which he approaches his new responsibilities as a yokozuna. Unlike other ranks in sumo, a yokozuna cannot be demoted; they are expected to retire if their performance declines. This adds a layer of pressure to the role, making Hoshoryu’s commitment to excellence even more crucial.
The Legacy of Mongolian Wrestlers in Sumo
Mongolian wrestlers have had a profound impact on the world of sumo over the past 25 years. Since the turn of the century, six of the seven wrestlers promoted to yokozuna have hailed from Mongolia. This dominance raises questions about the factors contributing to their success. Rob ร Nรฉill, president of the British Sumo Federation, suggests that the Mongolian national wrestling style, known as Bokh, plays a significant role. Bokh incorporates techniques like leg sweeps, which are legal in sumo but were less common among Japanese wrestlers until the influx of Mongolian fighters.
ร Nรฉill likens the situation to a kickboxer facing a traditional boxer, highlighting the unique advantages that Mongolian wrestlers bring to the ring. Their early exposure to wrestling, starting from a young age, also contributes to their prowess. “They’re also absolutely huge guys,” he added, noting that the absence of weight categories in professional sumo allows larger athletes to compete without restrictions. This combination of size, skill, and cultural background has enabled Mongolian wrestlers to excel in a sport that is deeply rooted in Japanese tradition.
The Life of a Sumo Wrestler
Becoming a professional sumo wrestler involves a complete lifestyle change. Wrestlers live, train, and eat together in a communal setting known as a stable. There are approximately 40 stables officially recognized by the Japan Sumo Association. This environment fosters a sense of camaraderie and discipline among the wrestlers. Training is rigorous and demanding, requiring a commitment to the sport that often spans years.
Wrestlers consume a special stew called chanko, which is designed to help them gain weight and build strength. Many former wrestlers open restaurants serving this dish near their stables, creating a unique culinary culture around sumo. Each stable is allowed to train only one foreign wrestler, which means that the majority of competitors are Japanese. However, the winner of the men’s amateur Sumo World Championships, which includes participants from nearly 90 countries, is invited to join a stable, providing a pathway for international talent.
Hoshoryu’s promotion to yokozuna not only highlights his personal achievements but also underscores the ongoing influence of Mongolian wrestlers in the sport. As he embarks on this new chapter, he carries the hopes of many fans and the legacy of his predecessors.
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