A legendary sumo wrestler who held the highest rank of Yokozuna, celebrated for his impressive strength, technique, and dominance in the sport.
Zutsu Manemon, born Kakubari Manji, was a Japanese professional sumo wrestler who left an indelible mark on the sport. As the 18th yokozuna, he dominated the ring with his impressive physique and unmatched strength, earning him the nickname "Monster Child of Misawa."
Born on December 30, 1869, in Misawa, Otakazawa, present-day Shiroishi City, Manemon was destined for greatness. At the age of 13, he demonstrated extraordinary physical strength, effortlessly carrying two bales of rice. His impressive physique caught the attention of the wife of a former rikishi of the Isenoumi stable, who recruited him to join the Oguruma stable in Tokyo in 1884.
Initially, Manemon adopted the shikona, or ring name, Misawataki in honor of his hometown. However, he was ridiculed and nicknamed "konnyaku" (solidified jelly) due to his weak legs and back. Undeterred, he dedicated himself to rigorous training, which paid off as he rapidly rose through the ranks. In 1888, he changed his shikona to Zutsu, marking the beginning of his remarkable career.
Zutsu's strength and endurance earned him a promotion to juryo in 1892, despite a modest record of 3 wins and 6 losses. His impressive performances in the top makuuchi division propelled him to sekiwake just three tournaments later. In May 1899, he was promoted to ōzeki, solidifying his position as a force to be reckoned with.
Zutsu's yokozuna career was marked by unprecedented success. He never lost a bout as ōzeki and was awarded a yokozuna licence by the Yoshida family in April 1901. In May 1902, he achieved the best record in the tournament, remaining undefeated. This remarkable feat cemented his status as one of the greatest sumo wrestlers of all time.
Zutsu Manemon's remarkable career has inspired generations of sumo wrestlers, solidifying his place in the annals of Japanese sumo history. His unwavering dedication, unrelenting strength, and unshakeable endurance have made him an iconic figure, forever etched in the hearts of sumo enthusiasts worldwide.
Born in 1874
A legendary sumo wrestler who held the highest rank of Yokozuna, known for his unbeaten record and dominant performances in the ring. He is a celebrated figure in Japanese sports history.
Born in 1912
A legendary sumo wrestler who held the highest rank of Yokozuna, known for his unbeaten streak of 69 consecutive wins, a record that stood for over 50 years.
Born in 1914
A dominant force in the sumo ring, holding the highest rank of Yokozuna, renowned for his exceptional strength and technique.
Born in 1923
A legendary sumo wrestler who held the highest rank of Yokozuna, known for his dominant performances and impressive career longevity.
78 Years Old
A legendary sumo wrestler who held the highest rank of Yokozuna, known for his dominant career and impressive techniques in the ring.
