Onosato Vows to Excel as an Unrivaled Yokozuna

On Wednesday, the Japan Sumo Association formally declared Onosato Daiki’s promotion to Yokozuna, the highest rank in sumo wrestling. This accomplishment comes after participating in only 13 professional tournaments, marking one of the swiftest ascents in the sport’s history.

The 24-year-old, who is 1.92 meters tall and weighs 191 kilograms, becomes the 75th yokozuna. He surpassed the previous record for the fastest promotion, held by the late Wajima, by eight tournaments.

Onosato is also the first wrestler born in Japan to attain the yokozuna rank since Kisenosato in 2017, who retired in January 2019.

“I am genuinely delighted. From now on, responsibilities will only increase. I intend to maintain my concentration and persist in working diligently,” Onosato stated.

“This represents uncharted territory for me. I aim to preserve my individual approach, remain true to myself, and strive to become an exceptional and unmatched yokozuna,” he further commented.

Remarkably, Onosato is the first wrestler in history to be promoted to yokozuna without a single losing record in his professional journey, underscoring his consistent performance and dominance.

His promotion occurs merely four months after Hoshoryu was elevated to the top rank in January. The two are scheduled to compete against each other for the first time as yokozuna during the forthcoming July tournament in Nagoya.

Nishonoseki Gunemon, who chairs the Japan Sumo Association, lauded Onosato’s achievement and voiced great anticipation for his leadership contributions to the sport.

“My expectation is that he will set a good example and uplift the entire sumo community,” Nishonoseki remarked.

“While strength is crucial, I also wish for him to serve as a role model for fellow wrestlers. I hope he competes with a strong awareness of the duties that come with being a yokozuna,” he concluded.