Sumo sensation Hoshoryu crowned 74th Yokozuna
On January 29th 2025, sumo wrestler Hoshoryu was officially elevated to the prestigious rank of Yokozuna, becoming the 74th to earn the title.
At the first tournament of the year in 2025, he emerged victorious in a three-way playoff between sumo who all held 12 wins and 3 losses, securing his second championship and sealing his promotion to Yokozuna with his performance.
The Japan Sumo Association convened a ranking arrangement meeting and an emergency board meeting at the Kokugikan in Tokyo on the same day.
Two association envoys were then dispatched to the Tatsunami stable to formally inform Hoshoryu and his stablemaster, Tatsunami, of this momentous promotion.
This marks the first time in three and a half years that a new Yokozuna has been appointed, following Terunofuji’s promotion after the Nagoya tournament in 2021.
At the promotion ceremony, he expressed his unwavering determination with the same resolute words he uttered upon his promotion to Ozeki: “I will work hard with a spirit of courage so as not to tarnish the name of Yokozuna.”.
In a subsequent press conference, Hoshoryu expressed his overwhelming joy, stating, “I’m so happy I can’t find the words. I’ve been incredibly excited since the final day of the tournament and haven’t been able to sleep properly. I’m hoping to finally get some restful sleep from today onwards.”.
When asked about the significance of his chosen words, he explained, “Ever since my promotion to Ozeki, upholding the integrity of this rank has been my paramount concern. I’ve strived tirelessly towards this goal. Regardless of the challenges, I am committed to facing them with strength and giving my absolute best.”.
He further outlined his aspirations as a Yokozuna, declaring, “I aim to become a truly formidable Yokozuna. I will dedicate myself to rigorous training and strive for double-digit championship victories.”.
He also shared his long-term ambitions, stating, “Since entering the world of sumo, becoming a Yokozuna has been my ultimate goal. I’ve always aspired to reach the pinnacle. The frustrations of defeat and the exhilaration of victory have fueled my journey. I am determined to achieve unprecedented feats and demonstrate the true essence of my sumo.”.
Hoshoryu, a 25-year-old Mongolian wrestler, is the nephew of the legendary Asashoryu, the 68th Yokozuna who achieved 25 championship titles during his career.
Hoshoryu’s sumo journey began at a Japanese high school where he was studying abroad.
Upon graduation, he joined the Tatsunami stable and made his professional debut at the New Year tournament in 2018.
Standing tall at 188 cm and weighing 148 kg, he possesses exceptional physicality, a formidable fighting spirit, and a diverse repertoire of techniques.
He swiftly ascended through the ranks, making his debut in the top division just two years after his professional debut.
Three years later, he achieved the prestigious rank of Komusubi.
Since his entry into the san’yaku ranks, he has achieved a winning record in nine consecutive tournaments, setting a stable record.
At the Nagoya tournament two years ago, he secured his first championship with an impressive 12-3 record, subsequently earning him promotion to Ozeki.
At the Kyushu tournament last year, his sharp and decisive starts to each match proved highly effective. Although he ultimately lost a crucial match on the final day, he still achieved a commendable 13-2 record.