Kotomitsuki Keiji: The Sumo Sensation Who Shattered Records
A Champion's Rise to Fame
Kotomitsuki Keiji, born Keiji Tamiya on April 11, 1976, is a Japanese former professional sumo wrestler known for his impressive record-breaking achievements in the sport. He is celebrated for being one of the oldest men to reach the rank of ōzeki in the modern era, at the age of 31.
Early Life and Amateur Career
Kotomitsuki was born in Okazaki City, Japan. He graduated from Tottori Jhoku High School and went on to attend Nihon University, where he had an extremely successful college sumo career, winning a record 27 amateur national titles.
Professional Career
Kotomitsuki made his professional debut in March 1999, and due to his amateur achievements, he was given makushita tsukedashi status, allowing him to bypass the lower divisions. Initially fighting under the shikona of Kototamiya, he adopted the name of Kotomitsuki upon reaching the jūryō division in November 1999.
Rise to the Top
Kotomitsuki was promoted to the top makuuchi division in May 2000 but missed the entire tournament due to injury. However, on his proper debut three tournaments later, he was runner-up to yokozuna Akebono with an outstanding 13-2 record, earning him all three special prizes. He was immediately promoted to sekiwake.
Championship and Controversy
Kotomitsuki took his only top-division yūshō (championship) in September 2001, while ranked as a maegashira. However, his career was marred by controversy when he was expelled from professional sumo by the Japan Sumo Association on July 4, 2010, for his involvement in an illegal gambling ring.
Awards and Honors
- Won 13 special prizes (sanshō) throughout his career
- One of six wrestlers in the history of sumo to receive all three sanshō in the same tournament
- Achieved promotion to ōzeki in July 2007, at the age of 31
Legacy
Kotomitsuki Keiji's remarkable career is marked by his impressive record-breaking achievements, his rise to the top ranks of sumo, and his unfortunate fall from grace. Despite the controversy surrounding his expulsion, Kotomitsuki remains an iconic figure in the world of sumo, inspiring future generations of wrestlers.
FAQ
What is Kotomitsuki Keijis career highlights in sumo?
Kotomitsuki Keiji is a Japanese sumo wrestler who has had a successful career, holding the rank of ōzeki, the second-highest rank in professional sumo.
What tournaments has Kotomitsuki Keiji won in sumo?
Kotomitsuki Keiji has won several top division championships, including the Makuuchi division, and has also won several lower-division championships.
What is Kotomitsuki Keijis sumo fighting style?
Kotomitsuki Keiji is known for his Yotsu-zumai fighting style, which involves grasping his opponents arm and using his strength to force them out of the ring.
How has Kotomitsuki Keiji contributed to Japanese sumo culture?
Kotomitsuki Keiji has been an important figure in promoting sumo culture in Japan, and his achievements have helped to popularize the sport.
What is Kotomitsuki Keijis ranking in the sumo hierarchy?
Kotomitsuki Keiji has held the rank of ōzeki, which is the second-highest rank in professional sumo, and has been considered one of the top sumo wrestlers in Japan.
