When it comes to Sumo wrestlers we always think they are Japanese but here in this list you’ll find 6 non Japanese sumo wrestlers who were best in the business.
Sumo wrestling is a kind of martial art in which two fighters wrestle on the circular platform. The homeland of this traditional sport is Japan. However, despite of the Japanese roots, many foreigners also mastered it and some even became the champion. Ukrainian paternal Taiho Koki won the Emperor’s Cup 32 times, the result is unsurpassed.
1. Taihō Kōki
Real name Koki Naya – professional sumo wrestler, the 48th Yokozuna. He became a Yokozuna in 1961 at the age of 21, the youngest ever. This living legend during his career won the Emperor’s Cup 32 times. This achievement has not yet been surpassed.
2. Takamiyama Daigorō
His real name was Jesse James, born in Happy Valley, Maui. He was the first ever foreign wrestler, who won the Imperial Cup – in 1972.
3. Yasokichi konishiki
Real name Salevaa Fuauli Atisanoe. He was the first non-Japanese-born wrestler to reach ōzeki, the second highest rank in the sport. During his career he won the top division championship on three occasions and was close to reaching the level of Yokozuna.
4. Akebono Tarō
The real name of Akebono Tarō was Chad Haaheo Rowan. One of the greatest Sumo wrestlers who become the first non-Japanese-born wrestler ever to reach Yokozuna (the highest rank in sumo).
5. Musashimaru Kōyō
Real name, Fiamalu Penitani. He was the second foreigner who achieved the mightiest rank in Sumo wrestling Yokozuna. He won over 700 top division bouts and took twelve top division tournament championships during his career.
6. Asashōryū Akinori
Asashōryū Akinori is born in September 27, 1980, in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia. He is the 68th Yokozuna in the history of the sport in Japan and became the first Mongol to reach sumo’s highest rank. He is one of the most successful sumo wrestlers and best in Non Japanese Sumo Wrestlers.
