The Japan Sumo Association’s board has unanimously decided to promote sekiwake Onosato to the rank of ozeki, the second-highest rank in professional sumo. Onosato, whose real name is Daiki Nakamura and hails from Ishikawa prefecture, won the September grand tournament for his second victory in the makuuchi top division. Upon receiving news of his promotion, Onosato expressed his determination to honor the rank of ozeki and continue pursuing “sumodo,” or the way of sumo.
Onosato began his professional sumo career last year at the No. 10 rank in the makushita division. In just nine grand tournaments since then, he has achieved one of the fastest ascents up the sumo ladder since Japan’s Showa era (1926-1989). However, he still sports a “chonmage” topknot as his hair is not long enough for the characteristic “oicho” hairstyle worn by makuuchi and juryo wrestlers.
This promotion also marks a significant milestone for stablemaster Nishonoseki, as Onosato will be their first ozeki wrestler. Nishonoseki is a former yokozuna grand champion named Kisenosato.
this decision highlights Onosato’s impressive achievements and dedication to becoming an exceptional sumo wrestler.
