Mongolian sumo wrestler who broke cultural barriers, becoming the first foreign-born wrestler to reach the top division in Japan's national sport. He paved the way for international sumo athletes .
Kakury Rikisabur, born Mangaljalavyn Anand, is a name synonymous with power, strength, and dominance in the world of professional sumo wrestling. As the 71st yokozuna in history, he has left an indelible mark on the sport, earning the respect and admiration of fans and fellow wrestlers alike.
Born on August 10, 1985, in Skhbaatar Province, Mongolia, Kakury's early life was far from the sumo ring. His father, a university professor, instilled in him a passion for basketball, not sumo. However, fate had other plans. At the tender age of 14, Kakury witnessed a sumo tournament featuring fellow Mongolians Kyokutenh and Kyokushzan on TV, and it was then that he knew his true calling.
Kakury's sumo journey began in earnest, and he rapidly rose through the ranks. He became a member of the top makuuchi division in November 2006 and secured the third-highest sekiwake rank in July 2009. His determination and prowess earned him promotion to the second-highest rank of ōzeki in March 2012.
After a string of impressive performances, including a runner-up finish to yokozuna Hakuhō, Kakury finally achieved the highest rank of yokozuna in 2014. This monumental milestone cemented his position as one of the greatest sumo wrestlers of all time.
Throughout his illustrious career, Kakury racked up an impressive tally of tournament wins, including five top division championships. He won his second tournament as a yokozuna in a thrilling playoff win over Terunofuji in September 2015. Despite facing injury setbacks, he persevered and claimed his fourth and fifth championships in March and May 2018, respectively.
In July 2019, he won his sixth championship, further solidifying his legacy in the sport. Kakury's remarkable resilience and dedication earned him a total of eight runner-up finishes throughout his career.
In 2020, Kakury took the significant step of obtaining Japanese citizenship and changing his name to Mangarajarabu Ananda. This move marked a new chapter in his life, as he began to transition from active competition to a more mentorship role.
In March 2021, Kakury announced his retirement from professional sumo wrestling, bringing an end to an era. He now serves as an elder in the Japan Sumo Association, where he is known as Otowayama. His wealth of experience and knowledge will undoubtedly inspire and guide the next generation of sumo wrestlers.
Kakury Rikisabur's remarkable career has left an indelible mark on the world of sumo wrestling. His dedication, perseverance, and natural talent have inspired countless individuals, solidifying his place as one of the greatest sumo wrestlers of all time.
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Mongolian sumo wrestler who held the highest rank of Yokozuna, known for his dominant career and cultural impact in Japan.
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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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