In a significant change aimed at enhancing security, the Japan Sumo Association announced on May 9, 2025, that the amount of cash wrestlers receive in their prize money envelopes on the dohyo will be reduced from 30,000 yen to just 10,000 yen. This decision comes ahead of the Summer Tournament, which kicks off on May 11, 2025, at the iconic Ryogoku Kokugikan.
The association's move follows growing concerns regarding theft due to the substantial amounts of cash that wrestlers, particularly those ranked Juryo and above, were carrying. As a result, there were discussions within the wrestlers' association about transitioning to cashless payments, although the current plan retains a cash component.
Under the new system, wrestlers will now receive 10,000 yen in cash on the dohyo, while the remaining 20,000 yen will be deposited directly into their bank accounts. This change aims to alleviate security risks for both the wrestlers and the association, which previously managed around 70 million yen in cash specifically for prize money.
Each prize, known as a "kensho," remains valued at 70,000 yen, from which a handling fee of 10,000 yen is deducted, leaving the winning wrestler with 60,000 yen. Previously, wrestlers would receive 30,000 yen in cash on the spot, with an additional 30,000 yen deposited into a separate account. Now, they will benefit from a larger deposit of 50,000 yen, which is designed to help cover potential tax obligations that may arise after retirement.
The Japan Sumo Association's decision reflects a broader trend as the number of prize money applications continues to grow, with a total of 2,916 applications submitted for the upcoming Summer Tournament. This figure is on par with the 2,955 applications from the January tournament, also held at Ryogoku Kokugikan.
One of the key reasons for the change is the increasing complexity of managing the cash prizes. With the rising number of kensho, stuffing each envelope with 30,000 yen had become a cumbersome task for the officials. By reducing the cash amount in each envelope, the association hopes to streamline operations and ease the burden on its staff.
Despite the reduction in cash received on the dohyo, the overall financial implications for wrestlers remain relatively unchanged compared to previous years. The adjustments are expected to encourage wrestlers to save more, as many will see an increase in their bank deposits. This is particularly beneficial for wrestlers as they prepare for life after retirement, where expenses for suits and travel can add up.
In terms of popularity, the upcoming tournament has seen a significant interest in kensho applications. The wrestler Daikanto has been designated the most popular choice, receiving an impressive 310 kensho. This is nearly double the amount for the second-ranked Hoshoryu, who has 158 kensho, while Kotozakura follows closely with 145. Other notable mentions include Osho with 126, Oushohma with 120, Hogyokudo with 113, and Kirishima with 109, all surpassing the 100 kensho mark.
Additionally, this tournament has welcomed 15 new sponsors, including Fan Style, a real estate company based in Naha City, which is noteworthy as it marks a rare occurrence for Okinawan companies to sponsor kensho in the last decade.
The Japan Sumo Association's proactive approach to addressing security concerns and operational efficiency highlights its commitment to adapting to the evolving landscape of professional sumo wrestling. As the Summer Tournament approaches, fans and wrestlers alike are eager to see how these changes will impact the competition and the overall experience on the dohyo.
