Kisenosato Yutaka: The Japanese Sumo Wrestling Legend
The Rise to Yokozuna
Kisenosato Yutaka, a Japanese former professional sumo wrestler, is best known for being the first Japanese-born wrestler to reach sumo's highest rank of yokozuna since Wakanohana in 1998. With a career spanning over two decades, he has made a significant impact on the sport, earning numerous accolades and breaking records along the way.
Early Life and Sumo Background
Born Yutaka Hagiwara on July 3, 1986, in Ashiya, Hyogo, Japan, Kisenosato moved to Rygasaki, Ibaraki at the age of two. He developed an interest in sumo wrestling at a young age and began his professional career in 2002, making his debut in the top makuuchi division in 2004 at just 18 years old.
Career Highlights and Major Works
- Reached the rank of ozeki in January 2012, earning three kinboshi (gold stars) by defeating yokozuna
- Scores over 20 double-digit winning records at the ozeki rank
- Secured the most wins in the calendar year in 2016, a feat achieved without winning a tournament that year
- Broke through at the January 2017 tournament, winning his first top division championship (yusho) with a 14-1 record and subsequently promoted to yokozuna
- Won his first tournament as a yokozuna in March 2017
Challenges and Controversies
Despite his impressive achievements, Kisenosato faced several challenges throughout his career, including:
- Failing to achieve the necessary number of wins to be promoted to yokozuna on four previous occasions (July 2013, January 2014, July 2016, and September 2016)
- Suffering a left chest muscle injury in March 2017, which led to a 15-tournament streak without a championship
- Missing eight straight tournaments, a record for a yokozuna, due to injuries and health concerns
Legacy and Retirement
In January 2019, Kisenosato announced his retirement from sumo, citing a desire to prioritize his health and well-being. He is now an elder of the Japan Sumo Association, going by the name of Nishonoseki Yutaka.
Personal Milestones and Quotes
"I'm happy to have been able to achieve my dream of becoming yokozuna, and I want to continue to work hard and be a role model for young sumo wrestlers." - Kisenosato Yutaka
Kisenosato's remarkable career serves as an inspiration to many, and his legacy continues to impact the world of sumo wrestling.
FAQ
What is Kisenosato Yutakas highest rank?
Kisenosato Yutaka is a former yokozuna, which is the highest rank in professional sumo wrestling. He achieved this rank in 2017 and held it until his retirement in 2019.
How many top division championships has Kisenosato Yutaka won?
Kisenosato Yutaka has won two top division championships, or yūshō, in his career. He won his first championship in 2017 and his second in 2018.
What is Kisenosato Yutakas career record?
Kisenosato Yutaka has a career record of 246 wins and 183 losses in the top division. He was known for his consistent performance and ability to compete at a high level for many years.
Why did Kisenosato Yutaka retire?
Kisenosato Yutaka retired in 2019 due to a series of injuries, including a left ankle injury that prevented him from competing at a high level. He announced his retirement at the age of 32.
What is Kisenosato Yutakas post-retirement career?
After retiring from sumo wrestling, Kisenosato Yutaka became a sumo elder and a coach at his former stable, Naruto Beya. He is also involved in various business ventures and appears as a sumo commentator on Japanese television.
