Former yokozuna Terunofuji, who recently retired from professional sumo, has made headlines with his generous donation of a new sumo dojo, unveiled on February 22, 2025, at Shin-Yokohama Park. This initiative aims to inspire local children to engage with the sport of sumo and broaden its reach across the community.
The dojo, measuring 15 meters square and compliant with competition standards, provides Yokohama's youth with their first dedicated sumo training facility. At the opening ceremony, Terunofuji expressed his hopes: "I expect future sekitori, ozeki, and yokozuna to be born from Yokohama," he stated, emphasizing the dojo’s potential to nurture future champions.
Yokohama's Mayor Takeharu Yamanaka echoed these sentiments, saying, "I hope this dojo becomes a place for children to grow and interact," highlighting the dojo's expected role as more than just a training ground—it aims to be a community hub for the youth.
During the ceremony, local children, many of whom were members of sumo clubs, were invited to step onto the dojo’s ring, experiencing the exhilaration of wrestling with actual professional wrestlers from the Isegahama stable. Eight-year-old Sana Arai, who had practicing with her brother prior to the event, enthusiastically remarked, "The ground is solid and easy to practice on. I want to gain strength and beat bigger kids!" Her excitement showcases the dojo's impact as it not only teaches the sport but also boosts children’s confidence.
This sumo dojo not only serves as a training locale but also as part of Terunofuji's broader initiative to combat the declining interest and participation rates among younger generations. He took to heart the fact, stating, "There’s been a concerning drop from elementary to middle school; I’ve always wanted to create this dojo for young sumo enthusiasts." His financial support was supplemented by his supporters, amplifying the community's investment in this project.
Plans are already underway for the dojo to serve as the training base for the new Isegahama Yokohama Sumo Club, which will cater to elementary and middle school students. Set to begin operations this spring, the club promises to provide structured training and support for those interested in pursuing sumo.
Terunofuji, reflecting on the completion of the dojo, conveyed his relief and joy, stating, "I am happy to realize the dojo I've always dreamed of. I want many children to visit here." This sentiment is echoed not only by him but by many who see this dojo as the first step toward revitalizing the sport of sumo among younger generations.
This opening is not merely about bricks and mortar; it's about fostering community ties and presenting sumo as an accessible sport. With Yokohama’s new sumo dojo standing proudly, it poses hopes for nurturing not just future wrestlers but also amicable and physically active youth.
Terunofuji’s vision does not stop with this dojo, as he plans to expand his initiative to create more training facilities across Japan. "If possible, I would like to establish dojos nationwide. There are several candidate locations already under consideration," he mentioned, highlighting his commitment to the sport's growth on national levels.
This most recent donation symbolizes not only Terunofuji's dedication to sumo but also his vision of fostering the next generation of wrestlers. The enthusiasm shown at the dojo's opening is hopefully just the beginning of what will be many fruitful wrestling careers cultivated in Yokohama.