The Japan Sumo Association (JSA) officially promoted Mongolian wrestler Hoshoryu to yokozuna, the sport's highest rank, during an extraordinary board meeting held on Wednesday, January 29, 2025. This promotion marks Hoshoryu as the 74th yokozuna and the sixth from Mongolia, reflecting the continuing influence of Mongolian wrestlers in the traditional Japanese sport.
At just 25 years of age, Hoshoryu, whose real name is Sugarragchaa Byambasuren, earned this distinction after winning the New Year Grand Sumo Tournament held at Tokyo's Ryogoku Kokugikan arena. Hoshoryu finished the tournament as one of the joint leaders with a record of 12 wins and 3 losses but secured his place at the pinnacle of sumo through a dramatic three-way playoff. His victory not only crowned him with his second Emperor's Cup but also solidified his path to becoming yokozuna.
"I will continue to work hard with a strong determination to not tarnish the title of yokozuna," Hoshoryu said during his promotion ceremony at Tatsunami stable, demonstrating his awareness of the responsibilities accompanying the rank. Speaking shortly after the promotion was formally announced, he expressed his dream come to fruition, stating, "This has been my dream ever since I entered the sumo world. I can't find the words to describe this happy feeling. I will try to elevated myself higher and higher. No matter what happens, I will stand strong."
Hoshoryu's ascension to yokozuna resounds significantly within the sumo community, especially following the retirement of Terunofuji, the previous yokozuna who stepped down due to persistent injuries. His departure left many concerned about the sport's representation at the highest level, as the absence of another grand champion would have marked the first time since 1993 when no yokozuna was active.
Hoshoryu's rise is particularly noteworthy as he is the nephew of legendary yokozuna, former champion and 68th overall, Azashoryu, who was instrumental in paving the way for Mongolian wrestlers on the sumo stage. Reflecting on his uncle's legacy, Hoshoryu shared, "My uncle's name won't leave me even after I reach yokozuna, but I want to establish something unique to define myself as Hoshoryu."
Promoted to ozeki after triumphing at the Nagoya Grand Tournament in July 2023, the 25-year-old Hoshoryu's illustrious sumo career began in 2018 when he made his professional debut at the New Year Grand Sumo Tournament. Remarkably, Hoshoryu achieved yokozuna status after competing in just 42 tournaments, making it the sixth-fastest promotion on record since the establishment of the current system back in 1958 which features six grand tournaments each year.
During the recent New Year Basho, Hoshoryu faced early challenges, including unexpected losses against lower-ranked opponents. By the mid-way point of the tournament, his promotion seemed far from guaranteed, prompting doubts among fans and analysts alike. Nevertheless, he rallied with six consecutive victories, culminating at the tournament's end.
His performance during the nail-biting playoff showcased his versatility as a wrestler, utilizing various techniques typical of his explosive wrestling style. Described as neither solely relying on pushing nor thrusting, Hoshoryu often incorporates arm throws and leg kicks to secure victories. Hoshoryu's commitment to hard work has earned him respect among fans, as evidenced by Masayuki Yamauchi, head of the Yokozuna Deliberation Council, who remarked on the wrestler being "tried and tested" during the New Year tournament.
With his recent success hailed by friends and family as well as former wrestlers, Hoshoryu aims to embody the virtues of determination and resilience. He vowed to uphold the rich traditions of sumo as he commented on the emotional weight of wearing the yokozuna title: "I will devote myself with the spirit of ‘kihaku issen’ (mental strength to stand strong and instant inspiration)."
Hoshoryu’s promotion now positions him as the sole yokozuna set to compete at the Spring Grand Sumo Tournament at Edion Arena Osaka starting March 9. The wrestling community is eager to witness how this talented athlete will navigate the challenges of his elevated status, especially considering how heavy the mantle of yokozuna can weigh on its bearers.
Looking forward, Hoshoryu's ambition does not merely rest on gaining the title of yokozuna. He aspires to earn multiple tournament titles over the course of his career, echoing the achievements of his family legacy. The sporting world eagerly anticipates how Hoshoryu will define his legacy amid significant expectations.
With this promotion, Hoshoryu not only secures his place among sumo's elite but also continues to inspire upcoming wrestlers aiming to follow similar paths. Sumo enthusiasts worldwide will be closely watching as he embarks on this new chapter, bearing the hopes of many.