A renowned sumo wrestler and coach who won numerous championships and later trained many successful sumo wrestlers. He is credited with modernizing sumo training methods and promoting the sport globally.
Kaiketsu Masateru, born Teruyuki Nishimori, was a Japanese sumo wrestler who reached the prestigious rank of ōzeki on two occasions and claimed two top division tournament championships. He is also remembered for his coaching career, during which he founded the Hanaregoma stable and served as the chairman of the Japan Sumo Association from 2010 to 2012.
Masateru was born on February 16, 1948. Before entering the world of sumo, he practiced judo while attending Nihon University. He made his professional sumo debut in September 1966 at the age of 18, initially fighting under his own surname of Nishimori.
After switching to the shikona of Hananishiki and later Kaiketsu, he reached the second highest jūryō division in January 1970. His breakthrough came in March 1972, when he finished as the tournament runner-up to Hasegawa, earning special prizes for Outstanding Performance and Technique.
Kaiketsu's achievements include:
After retiring from active competition in 1979, Kaiketsu became a coach under the name of Hanaregoma-oyakata. He founded the Hanaregoma stable and went on to mentor several prominent sumo wrestlers.
In 2010, he was appointed chairman of the Japan Sumo Association, a position he held until 2012. Kaiketsu's contributions to the sport of sumo have left a lasting impact, and he is remembered as one of the most respected figures in the sumo community.
Kaiketsu Masateru passed away on May 18, 2014, leaving behind a legacy that continues to inspire new generations of sumo wrestlers.
Throughout his life, Kaiketsu faced various health challenges, including hepatitis and lower back pain, which eventually led to his demotion from the rank of ōzeki. Despite these obstacles, he remained dedicated to the sport he loved, and his achievements continue to be celebrated to this day.
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A Mongolian sumo wrestler who held the highest rank of Yokozuna, known for his exceptional strength, technique, and dominance in the sport. He won numerous top division championships and was a beloved figure in Japan.
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