A dominant force in sumo wrestling, holding the top division championship title a record 32 times and earning a promotion to the sport's highest rank of yokozuna at just 21 years old.
Shhzan Yya, born Yya Matsutani on February 9, 1984, is a Japanese former professional sumo wrestler who made a name for himself in the sport with his impressive skills and achievements. Known for his powerful performances on the ring, Yya rose to the top makuuchi division in November 2011, earning him a reputation as one of the most formidable sumo wrestlers of his time.
Before becoming a professional sumo wrestler, Yya was an avid baseball and judo player in his junior high school years. However, after transferring to an industrial and science high school in Fukuoka, he joined the sumo club, where he was scouted by the coach. This marked the beginning of his sumo journey, which would take him to great heights.
In Komazawa University, Yya was a regular on the sumo team and managed to become the runner-up for the championship at a national competition. His performances at this level earned him many invitations from various sumo stables, but he chose to enter Matsugane, which later changed its name to Nishonoseki and then Hanaregoma.
Yya made his professional debut in May 2006, fighting under his own surname of Matsutani. Although he didn't achieve makushita tsukedashi status, he posted a decent jonokuchi debut with a 5-2 record. In the next tournament, he took the jonidan championship with a perfect 7-0 record and a playoff victory over fellow up-and-comer Sakaizawa.
Three strong tournaments in sandanme got him promotion to the third makushita division in March 2007. He continued to make his mark in the sport, earning three Fighting Spirit prizes, five kinboshi or gold stars for defeating yokozuna, and becoming the runner-up in one tournament.
Yya's impressive performances on the ring earned him several awards and honors, including three Fighting Spirit prizes, five kinboshi or gold stars for defeating yokozuna, and the rank of komusubi on five separate occasions.
Yya's contributions to the world of sumo wrestling are undeniable. He inspired a generation of sumo wrestlers with his dedication, perseverance, and skill. His legacy continues to inspire young sumo enthusiasts, and his achievements serve as a benchmark for excellence in the sport.
After retiring from competition in June 2022, Yya leaves behind a lasting legacy that will be remembered for years to come. His impact on the sport of sumo wrestling is a testament to his hard work, discipline, and passion for the sport.
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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.
