recursal/Fanatic-Fandom huggingface dataset:
Wakabayama Tsuyoshi

Wakabayama Tsuyoshi - 若葉山 強 (born November 7, 1946) is a former Japanese professional sumo wrestler from Shinjo, Yamagata. He made his debut in July 1962 and wrestled for Tokitsukaze stable. He reached the juryo division in January 1965. His highest rank was juryo 5 and he retired in January 1968.

## **Early Life**

Ito was born in Mogami District in Yamagata prefecture. In junior high school, he played the positions of outfielder and pitcher and was the fourth batter. After graduating junior high school, he joined professional sumo, entering Tokitsukaze stable, and made his professional debut in July 1962.

## **Career**

Initially wrestling under the shikona "Itogawa" (伊藤川), he won the jonokuchi yusho with a perfect 7-0 record in his first professional tournament. He was promoted to sandanme in January 1963 and makushita in September 1963. In his first makushita tournament, he finished with a perfect 7-0 record, but missed out on the yusho after losing to Wakanoshima in the playoff. Nevertheless, in November 1964 he won the makushita yusho and was promoted to juryo for the following January 1965 tournament.

At the time of his juryo promotion, he was only 18 years and 1 month old, and became the first sekitori born after World War II. He was ranked in juryo for a total of 14 tournaments. In July 1966 he was given the prestigious shikona "Wakabayama" (若葉山) which had been previously used by two other sekitori. His highest rank was juryo 5 which he achieved in January 1967, however, after two consecutive losing records, he was demoted down to makushita in May 1967. He retired from sumo after the January 1968 tournament at the young age of 21.

## **Retirement from Sumo**

### **Keirin Career**

After leaving sumo, he attended the Japan Institute of KEIRIN (JIK) and was a member of the 28th graduating class. He made his debut on February 14, 1971, at the Kawasaki Velodrome in Kawasaki, Kanagawa. At his highest, he was ranked at the A1 class. He raced a total of 2738 races and finished with 221 wins.

## **Fighting Style**

Wakabayama was a yotsu-sumo wrestler who prefers grappling to pushing and thrusting techniques. He favored a hidari-yotsu (right hand outside, left hand inside) position when gripping his opponent's mawashi (belt). His most common kimarite was yorikiri, or force out.

## **Record**

### **Division Results**

* **Total:** 171-170-2/340 (34 basho)
* **Juryo:** 100-108-2/207 (14 basho)
* **Makushita:** 42-49/91 (13 basho)
* **Sandanme:** 17-11/28 (4 basho)
* **Jonidan:** 5-2/7 (1 basho)
* **Jonokuchi:** 7-0/7 (1 basho)

### **Championships**

* 1 **Makushita** Championship (November 1964)
* 1 **Jonokuchi** Championship (September 1962)

## **Shikona History**

* Ito Tsuyoshi (1962.07 - 1962.07)
* Itogawa Tsuyoshi (1962.09 - 1966.05)
* Wakabayama Tsuyoshi (1966.07 - 1968.01)

## **Gallery**

Wakabayama during his time as a juryo wrestler (c. 1966)Wakabayama during his time as a Keirin cyclist
## **Sources**

* Wakabayama Tsuyoshi Japanese Wikipedia Article
* Wakabayama Tsuyoshi Rikishi Information
Toshinyama Noriyuki

Toshinyama Noriyuki -東心山 徳幸 (born July 28, 1974) is a former Japanese professional sumo wrestler from Tokunoshima, Kagoshima. He made his debut in January 1994 and wrestled for Tamanoi stable. His highest rank was makushita 10 and he retired in May 2010.

## **Early Life**

When Hirota was in high school, he won a sumo tournament in Kagoshima Prefecture. During his time in high school, he studied cooking, but he later dropped out in his third year to work at a sushi restaurant. He was later recruited into professional sumo by Tamanoi stable.

## **Career**

He made his professional debut in March 1994 alongside Tamakasuga and Asofuji and was given the shikona "Toshinyama" (東心山). He got off to a strong start and posted three consecutive 6-1 records from his debut. He was promoted to sandanme in September 1994 and makushita in November 1995. He briefly wrestled under his surname Hirota from March 2000 to May 2000 before reverting back to the shikona Toshinyama. In July 2000, he finished with a perfect 7-0 record, but missed out on the sandanme yusho after losing to Shotenyu in a playoff. Nevertheless, he was promoted to a career-best makushita 10 for the following September 2000 tournament. In November 2008, he won all seven of his matches, but missed out on the sandanme yusho again after losing to Keno in the playoff.

## **Retirement from Sumo**

Toshinyama retired from sumo in May 2010. In October 2011, he became the sushi chef for the fresh food market "SuperSanyo" (生鮮市場 さんよう) in Adachi, Tokyo.

## **Fighting Style**

Toshinyama was proficient in both yotsu-sumo (grappling) and oshi-sumo (pushing and thrusting) techniques. His most often used winning kimarite was yorikiri (force out), followed by oshidashi (push out).

## **Record**

### **Division Results**

* **Total:** 346-333-7/679 (99 basho)
* **Makushita:** 192-235/427 (61 basho)
* **Sandanme:** 136-95-7/231 (34 basho)
* **Jonidan:** 12-2/14 (2 basho)
* **Jonokuchi:** 6-1/7 (1 basho)

## **Shikona History**

* Toshinyama Noriyuki (1994.01 - 2000.01)
* Hirota Noriyuki (2000.03 - 2000.05)
* Toshinyama Noriyuki (2000.07 - 2010.05)

## **Gallery**

Toshinyama prepares for his upcoming match (c. 2005)
## **Sources**

* Toshinyama Noriyuki Japanese Wikipedia Article
* Toshinyama Noriyuki Rikishi Information
Tochitada Hideaki

Tochitada Hideaki - 栃忠 秀昭 (born March 1, 1941 - January 21, 2008) was a Japanese professional sumo wrestler from Tokuji, Yamaguchi. He made his debut in May 1959 and last wrestled for Kasugano stable. He reached the juryo division in May 1965. His highest rank was juryo 9 and he retired in September 1967.

## **Early Life**

Tomokage attended Hofu High School where he was a member of the sumo club. In 1957 he participated at the 22nd National Sports Festival of Japan held in Shizuoka and won the sumo championship during his first year in high school. He was seen to have a bright future, however, in May 1958 he sprained his left knee during training. Nevertheless, he was recruited for professional sumo and joined Kasugano stable.

## **Career**

He made his professional debut in May 1959 and was promoted to sandanme in January 1960 and makushita in July 1960. In January 1962, he changed his shikona from his surname to "Tochitada" (栃忠). In March 1965 he won the makushita yusho and was promoted to juryo for the May 1965 tournament. His first juryo run only lasted two tournaments and he was demoted back down to makushita in September 1965. In March 1966 he won his second makushita yusho and was promoted back to juryo in November 1965 where he remained for another seven tournaments.

## **Retirement from Sumo**

Tochitada retired from sumo in September 1967. After retiring, he worked at a construction company in Tokyo and was engaged with the fishing industry at his hometown. He died on January 21, 2008, at the age of 67.

## **Fighting Style**

Tochitada was a yotsu-sumo wrestler who prefers grappling to pushing and thrusting techniques. He favored a hidari-yotsu (right hand outside, left hand inside) position when gripping his opponent's mawashi (belt). His most common kimarite was yorikiri, or force out.

## **Record**

### **Division Results**

* **Total:** 230-190-8/420 (51 basho)
* **Juryo:** 61-74/135 (9 basho)
* **Makushita:** 129-108-8/237 (35 basho)
* **Sandanme:** 19-5/24 (3 basho)
* **Jonidan:** 14-2/16 (2 basho)
* **Jonokuchi:** 7-1/8 (1 basho)

### **Championships**

* 2 **Makushita** Championships
	+ 1st (March 1965)
	+ 2nd (March 1966)

## **Shikona History**

* Tomokage Michitada (1959.05 - 1961.11)
* Tochitada Hideaki (1962.01 - 1967.09)

## **Sources**

* Tochitada Hideaki Japanese Wikipedia Article
* Tochitada Hideaki Rikishi Information
Wakanoshima Toshiya

Wakanoshima Toshiya - 若乃洲 敏弥 (born May 5, 1941 - March 18, 1984) was a Japanese professional sumo wrestler from Chuo-ku, Fukuoka City, Fukuoka Prefecture. He made his debut in January 1957 and wrestled for Hanakago stable. He reached the makuuchi division in May 1965. His highest rank was maegashira 5 and he retired in November 1969.

## **Early Life**

Suzuki was born in Fukuoka's Chuo Ward on May 5, 1941. While attending junior high school he was a member of the judo club, however, after graduating junior high school he was introduced to Hanakago stable by a relative of Hanakago Oyakata (former maegashira Onoumi) and subsequently joined the stable.

## **Career**

### **Early Career**

He made his professional debut in January 1957 and was given the shikona "Kyushuwaka" (九州若). He was promoted to sandanme in July 1958 and makushita in November 1959. He changed his shikona to "Wakanoshima" (若乃洲) in September 1962. In September 1963 he won the makushita yusho with a perfect 7-0 record and was promoted to juryo for the following November 1963 tournament.

### **Juryo Career**

Wakanoshima posted three consecutive winning records from his juryo debut, however he went on a tow tournament slump in May and July 1964 and was regulated back to the lower-half of juryo. Nevertheless, he bounced back with four consecutive winning records and was promoted to makuuchi in May 1965.

### **Makuuchi Career**

Wakanoshima was ranked in makuuchi for two years from 1965 to 1967 with the exception of one tournament in juryo. His highest rank was maegashira 5 which he held in January 1966. In March 1967 he posted a disastrous 1-14 record and was demoted back down to juryo where he could only manage one win before pulling out of the tournament on the eighth day. He was subsequently demoted back down to makushita where he remained for two year before announcing his retirement after the November 1969 tournament.

## **Retirement from Sumo**

After retiring, Wakanoshima opened up a chanko restaurant in Chiyoda, Tokyo. He died on March 18, 1942, at the age of 42.

## **Fighting Style**

Wakanoshima was a yotsu-sumo wrestler who prefers grappling to pushing and thrusting techniques. He favored a migi-yotsu (left hand outside, right hand inside) position when gripping his opponent's mawashi (belt). His most common kimarite was uwatenage, or overarm throw.

## **Record**

### **Division Results**

* **Total:** 377-335-10/711 (77 basho)
* **Makuuchi:** 71-94/165 (11 basho)
* **Juryo:** 88-70-7/157 (11 basho)
* **Makushita:** 148-126-3/274 (39 basho)
* **Sandanme:** 40-24/64 (8 basho)
* **Jonidan:** 26-14/40 (5 basho
* **Jonokuchi:** 3-5/8 (1 basho)
* **Shinjo:** 1-2/3 (1 basho)

### **Championships**

* 1 **Makushita** Championship (September 1963)

## **Shikona History**

* Kyushuwaka (1957.01 - 1962.07)
* Wakanoshima Toshiya (1962.09 - 1967.09)
* Shima (1967.11 - 1969.11)

## **Gallery**

Wakanoshima wins the Makushita Yusho (c. 1963)Wakanoshima poses with his kesho-mawashi (c. 1967)
## **Sources**

* Wakanoshima Toshiya Japanese Wikipedia Article
* Wakanoshima Toshiya Rikishi Information
Takekuma Stable (2021)

Takekuma stable (武隈部屋, Takekuma-beya) is a stable of sumo wrestlers, one of the Dewanoumi group of stables. It broke off from Sakaigawa stable by its founder, Ozeki Goeido, and officially opened in February 2022.

As of January 2023 it has 6 active sumo wrestlers.

## **History**

The stable was established in February 2022 by former ozeki Goeido. In May 2022 Nishikawa (now Gonoyama) became the first member of the stable to be promoted to the juryo division.

## **Ring Name Conventions**

Many wrestlers in this stable have ring names or shikona that start in the character 豪 (read: go), meaning overpowering or powerful, in deference to the head coach, former Goeido. Examples include Gonoyama, Goseiryu and Gonowaka.

## **Owners**

* 2021-present: 14th Takekuma Gotaro (iin, former ozeki Goeido)

## **Notable Active Wrestlers**

* Gonoyama (best rank maegashira)
* Kanzaki (best rank makushita)
* Gonoumi (best rank makushita)
Tokohibiki (tokoyama)

Tokohibiki - 床響 (born August 21, 2001) is a Japanese professional sumo hairdresser from Ichinomiya, Aichi. He debuted in the May 2017 tournament and he belongs to Sadogatake stable. He reached the Fourth class in January 2023.

## **Career**

* May 2017 - Joined Kasugano stable as a tokoyama
* January 2023 - Promoted to fourth class tokoyama (yonto - 四等)
Yoshinoiwa Yoshiyuki

Yoshinoiwa Yoshiyuki - 吉ノ岩 義行 (born October 29, 1938) is a former Japanese professional sumo wrestler from Omura, Nagasaki. He made his debut in January 1956 and last wrestled for Nishonoseki stable. He reached the juryo division in May 1962. His highest rank was juryo 7 and he retired in July 1963.

## **Early Life**

At Omura Senior High School, Yoshimura was a member of the baseball club and played catcher. After watching a hanazumo (special exhibition) tournament, he aspired to become a sumo wrestler and was introduced into Nishonoseki stable by makushita wrestler Omiyama.

## **Career**

He made his professional debut in January 1956 and was given the shikona "Yoshinoiwa" (吉ノ岩) which is derived from his surname. After winning the sandanme yusho in September 1957, he was promoted to makushita in November 1957. He was promoted to juryo in May 1962 where he remained for seven consecutive tournaments.

## **Retirement from Sumo**

After falling back down to the unsalaried ranks in July 1963, he retired from sumo immediately. After retiring, he ran an udon-suki restaurant in Kobe, Hyogo.

## **Record**

### **Division Results**

* **Total:** 189-170-7/359 (43 basho)
* **Juryo:** 44-61/105 (7 basho)
* **Makushita:** 111-95-7/206 (28 basho)
* **Sandanme:** 13-3/16 (2 basho)
* **Jonidan:** 16-8/24 (3 basho)
* **Jonokuchi:** 5-3/8 (1 basho)

### **Championships**

* 1 **Sandanme** Championship (September 1957)

## **Shikona History**

* Yoshimura (1956.01 - 1956.03)
* Yoshinoiwa Yoshiyuki (1956.05 - 1959.09)
* Nishiumi (1959.11 - 1960.05)
* Yoshinoiwa Yoshiyuki (1960.07 - 1963.07)

## **Sources**

* Yoshinoiwa Yoshiyuki Japanese Wikipedia Article
* Yoshinoiwa Yoshiyuki Rikishi Information
Wakanami Yoshimitsu

Wakanami Yoshimitsu - 若浪 義光 (born May 6, 1914 - December 30, 1982) was a Japanese professional sumo wrestler from Esutoru, Karafuto. He made his debut in May 1935 and last wrestled for Tatsunami stable. He reached the makuuchi division in May 1940. His highest rank was maegashira 19 and he retired in January 1942.

## **Early Life**

Yoshimitsu Wakabayshi was born on May 6, 1914, in Higashikawa, Hokkaido. However, since the age of 9 he grew up in the town of Esutoru in Karafuto prefecture (now Uglegorsk, Sakhalin Oblast, Russia) - he would use this as his official birthplace when joining professional sumo. Prior to joining sumo, Wakabayashi was a member of the Japanese Military and was stationed in Manchuria where he was involved in the Mukden Incident. After his military career, he joined Tatsunami stable in 1935.

## **Career**

### **Early Career**

He made his professional debut in May 1935 and was given the shikona "Wakanami" (若浪). Since he was older than the other trainees, he rose up the rankings at a fast pace and even won the sandanme yusho in January 1937. He was promoted to juryo in May 1938 after only six tournaments in professional sumo. However, he suffered from a thiamine deficiency which stalled his progress. Nevertheless, he was promoted to makuuchi in May 1940.

### **Makuuchi Career**

In his top division debut, Wakanami finished with a poor 5-10 record and was demoted back down to juryo. This proved to be his only makuuchi appearance. Upon falling back down to juryo, he was given the new shikona "Wakanomori" (若乃森). However, he continued to post losing records and subsequently retired from sumo in January 1942 due to an inevitable demotion back down to makushita.

## **Retirement from Sumo**

After retiring from sumo, Wakanami remained in the Sumo Association as an elder under the name Oshima. He worked as a coach for Tatsunami stable before reaching the retirement age of 65 in 1979. He died three years later in 1982 at the age of 68.

## **Fighting Style**

Wakanami was a yotsu-sumo wrestler who prefers grappling to pushing and thrusting techniques. He favored a migi-yotsu (left hand outside, right hand inside) position when gripping his opponent's mawashi (belt). His most common kimarite was yorikiri, or force out.

## **Record**

### **Division Results**

* **Total:** 82-78/160 (14 basho)
* **Makuuchi:** 5-10/15 (1 basho)
* **Juryo:** 46-55/101 (7 basho)
* **Makushita:** 15-11/26 (2 basho)
* **Sandanme:** 6-0/6 (1 basho)
* **Jonidan:** 5-1/6 (1 basho)
* **Jonokuchi:** 5-1/6 (1 basho)

### **Championships**

* 1 **Sandanme** Championship (January 1937)

## **Shikona History**

* Wakanami Yoshimitsu (1935.05 - 1940.05)
* Wakanomori Yoshimitsu (1941.01 - 1942.01)

## **Sources**

* Wakanami Yoshimitsu Japanese Wikipedia Article
* Wakanami Yoshimitsu Rikishi Information
Tokonaru (tokoyama)

Tokonaru - 床鳴 (born February 25, 1975) is a Japanese professional sumo hairdresser from Aomori, Aomori. He debuted in the March 1990 tournament and he belongs to Tagonoura stable. He reached the First class in January 2021.

## **Career**

* March 1990 - Joined Naruto stable as a tokoyama
* Before 1999 - Promoted to fourth class tokoyama (yonto - 四等) sometime before 1999, the exact date is not published
* January 2001 - Promoted to third class tokoyama (santo - 三等)
* January 2011 - Promoted to second class tokoyama (nito - 二等)
* January 2021 - Promoted to first class tokoyama (itto - 一等)
Tokohide (tokoyama)

Tokohide - 床秀 (born September 29, 1977) is a Japanese professional sumo hairdresser from Kitakyushu, Fukuoka. He debuted in the March 1996 tournament and he belongs to Shikihide stable. He reached the Second class in January 2017.

## **Career**

* March 1996 - Joined Shikihide stable as a tokoyama
* January 2002 - Promoted to fourth class tokoyama (yonto - 四等)
* January 2006 - Promoted to third class tokoyama (santo - 三等)
* January 2017 - Promoted to second class tokoyama (nito - 二等)
Tokoasa (tokoyama)

Tokoasa- 床朝 (born November 29, 1962) is a Japanese professional sumo hairdresser from Kyoto, Kyoto. He was recruited in April 1978 and debuted in the May 1978 tournament and he belongs to Yamahibiki stable. He reached the First class in January 2009.

## **Career**

* May 1978 - Had his debut under Mihogaseki stable as a tokoyama
* May 1999 - Promoted to second class tokoyama (nito - 二等)
* January 2009 - Promoted to first class tokoyama (itto - 一等)
* October 2013 - Transferred to Kitanoumi stable due to the closure of Mihogaseki stable
Tokokado (tokoyama)

Tokokado - 床門 (born February 18, 1971) is a Japanese professional sumo hairdresser from Koza, Kanagawa. He debuted in the March 1986 tournament and he belongs to Shibatayama stable. He reached the First class in January 2017.

## **Career**

* March 1986 - Joined Hanaregoma stable as a tokoyama
* Before 1999 - Promoted to third class tokoyama (santo - 三等) sometime before 1999, the exact date is not published
* January 2006 - Promoted to second class tokoyama (nito - 二等)
* March 2013 - Transferred to Shibatayama stable due to the closure of Hanaregoma stable
* January 2017 - Promoted to first class tokoyama (itto - 一等)
Wakahikari Mitsumasa

Wakahikari Mitsumasa - 若晃 三昌 (born November 14, 1943) is a former Japanese professional sumo wrestler from Taito, Tokyo. He made his debut in March 1960 and last wrestled for Takashima stable. He reached the juryo division in March 1966. His highest rank was juryo 11 and he retired in May 1969.

## **Early Life**

Hideo Toda was born the second son of Tofu shop owners in Taito, Tokyo. He attended Shinobugaoka Junior High School and Nittaidai Ebara High School where he played catcher in the schools' baseball club. He was known for his rough and confrontational attitude which caused Isenishiki, who was a wakaimonogashira, to recruit him for professional sumo.

## **Career**

After dropping out of high school, he joined Takashima stable and made his professional debut in March 1960 under the shikona "Wakamitsune" (若三根). In March 1961 he transferred to Kumagatani stable (later renamed Takashima stable). In July 1962, he changed his shikona to "Mitsuhikari" (三晃) and was promoted to makushita in November 1963. In January 1966 he won the makushita yusho with a perfect 7-0 record and was promoted to juryo for the March 1966 tournaments.

He could only manage a 3-12 record in his first tournament as a sekitori and was demoted back down to makushita. In May 1968 he changed his shikona to "Wakahikari" (若晃). In November 1968 he won his second makushita yusho and was promoted back to juryo. However, in his return, he injured his cervical spine and had to withdraw from the tournament after only recording two wins.

## **Retirement from Sumo**

After losing his sekitori status, he retired two tournaments later in May 1969. After retiring, he ran a food stall in the Otemachi district of Chiyoda, Tokyo.

## **Fighting Style**

Wakahikari was a yotsu-sumo wrestler who prefers grappling to pushing and thrusting techniques. He favored a migi-yotsu (left hand outside, right hand inside) position when gripping his opponent's mawashi (belt). His favorite kimarite were shitatetange (underarm throw) and uwatenage (overarm throw).

## **Record**

### **Division Results**

* **Total:** 204-194-4/397 (56 basho)
* **Juryo:** 5-21-4/25 (2 basho)
* **Makushita:** 114-103/217 (31 basho)
* **Sandanme:** 56-42/98 (14 basho)
* **Jonidan:** 25-24/49 (7 basho)
* **Jonokuchi:** 4-4/8 (1 basho)

### **Championships**

* 2 **Juryo** Championships
	+ 1st (January 1966)
	+ 2nd (November 1968)

## **Shikona History**

* Toda Hideo (1960.03 - 1960.03)
* Wakamitsune (1960.05 - 1962.05)
* Mitsuhikari Kazuto (1962.07 - 1968.03)
* Wakahikari Mitsumasa (1968.05 - 1969.05)

## **Gallery**

Wakahikari, then known as Mitsuhikari, lifts weights
## **Sources**

* Wakahikari Mitsumasa Japanese Wikipedia Article
* Wakahikari Mitsumasa Rikishi Information
Tokoriki (tokoyama)

Tokoriki - 床力 (born October 9, 1992) is a Japanese professional sumo hairdresser from Nishitama, Tokyo. He debuted in the July 2011 tournament and he belongs to Dewanoumi stable. He reached the Third class in January 2022.

## **Career**

* July 2011 - Joined Dewanoumi stable as a tokoyama
* January 2017 - Promoted to fourth class tokoyama (yonto - 四等)
* January 2022 - Promoted to third class tokoyama (santo - 三等)
Tokoami (tokoyama)

Tokoami - 床旭美 (born April 13, 1986) is a Japanese professional sumo hairdresser from Miyakonojo, Miyazaki. He debuted in the January 2004 tournament and he belongs to Isegahama stable. He reached the Second class in January 2024.

## **Career**

* January 2004 - Joined Ajigawa stable as a tokoyama using the name Tokoami (床安美)
* May 2008 - Changed the writing of his ringname to 床旭美 (Tokoami)
* January 2009 - Promoted to fourth class tokoyama (yonto - 四等)
* January 2015 - Promoted to third class tokoyama (santo - 三等)
* January 2024- Promoted to second class tokoyama (nito - 二等)
Tokoryu (tokoyama)

Tokoryu - 床隆 (born September 3, 1984) is a Japanese professional sumo hairdresser from Hirosaki, Aomori. He debuted in the May 2003 tournament and he belongs to Sakaigawa stable. He reached the Second class in January 2024.

## **Career**

* May 2003 - Joined Sakaigawa stable as a tokoyama
* January 2009 - Promoted to fourth class tokoyama (yonto - 四等)
* January 2014 - Promoted to third class tokoyama (santo - 三等)
* January 2024- Promoted to second class tokoyama (nito - 二等)
Wakafuji Stable (Edo period)

Wakafuji stable (若藤部屋, Wakafuji-beya) was a stable of sumo wrestlers, part of the Tatsunami ichimon or group of stables. The stable was established in the late 18th century and closed in September 1948 with all its personnel transferring to Isegahama stable.

## **History**

The first Wakafuji first established the stable sometime during the late 18th century, however, he was unable to produce any sekitori and the stable closed down. In 1856, juryo wrestler Aratobi branched off from Isenoumi stable and re-established Wakafuji stable, however, he died in 1869 and all of his wrestlers transferred back to Isenoumi stable. The stable was later re-established by komusubi Aratora in the late 19th century and was inherited by his disciple, former maegashira Ageshio. The stable closed down in September 1948 with all personnel transferring to Isegahama stable.

## **Owners**

* 1936-1948: 9th Wakafuji (former maegashira Koshinoumi)
* 1907-1935: 8th Wakafuji (former maegashira Ageshio)
* 1883-1903: 7th Wakafuji (former maegashira Ageshio)
* 1880-1882: 6th Wakafuji (former komusubi Aratora)
* 1856-1869: 5th Wakafuji (former juryo Aratobi)
Shikimori Kazenosuke

Shikimori Kazenosuke - 式守 風之助 (born July 6, 2007) is a Japanese professional sumo referee from Kakegawa, Shizuoka. He was recruited in June 2023 and debuted in the July 2023 tournament and he belongs to Oshiogawa stable.

## **Career**

* July 2023 - Had his ring debut under Oshiogawa stable
* September 2023 - Promoted to Jonokuchi-kaku gyoji and took on the name Shikimori Kazenosuke (式守 風之助)
Tokodai (tokoyama)

Tokodai - 床大 (born July 24, 1970) is a Japanese professional sumo hairdresser from Sanjo, Niigata. He debuted in the November 1986 tournament and he belongs to Michinoku stable. He reached the First class in January 2017.

## **Career**

* November 1986 - Joined Michinoku stable as a tokoyama
* Before 1999 - Promoted to third class tokoyama (santo - 三等) sometime before 1999, the exact date is not published
* January 2007 - Promoted to second class tokoyama (nito - 二等)
* January 2017 - Promoted to first class tokoyama (itto - 一等)
Uehara Sho

Uehara Sho - 上原 昌 (born October 20, 1996) is a former Japanese professional sumo wrestler from Tsuruta, Aomori. He made his debut in September 2016 and wrestled for Musashigawa stable. His highest rank was jonidan 63 and he retired in January 2017.

## **Early Life**

Sho Uehara was born on October 20, 1996, in Tsuruta, Aomori. He attended Kinki University where he was a member of the school's sumo club. He had always aspired to become a professional sumo wrestler and decided to drop out of school midway in order to get a head start in his professional sumo career. He dropped alongside college teammates, Midorifuji and Nishikifuji, and subsequently joined Musashigawa stable, while Midorifuji and Nishikifuji joined Isegahama stable.

## **Career**

Uehara made his professional debut in September 2016 and finished with a 5-2 record in his first official tournament. However, he retired shortly after in January 2017 after only three tournaments in sumo.

## **Fighting Style**

Uehara was an oshi-sumo wrestler who prefers pushing and thrusting techniques to fighting on the mawashi. His most common kimarite used were oshidashi (push out) and oshitaoshi (push down).

## **Record**

### **Division Results**

* **Total:** 5-2-7/7 (3 basho)
* **Jonidan:** 0-0-7/0 (1 basho)
* **Jonokuchi:** 5-2/7 (1 basho)

## **Gallery**

Uehara gets measured upon joining sumo (c. 2016)Uehara joins alongside Midorifuji and Nishikifuji (c. 2016)Uehara during his time in maezumo (c. 2016)
## **Sources**

* Uehara Sho Rikishi Information
* Musashigawa Stable Blog Post on Uehara
Yukata

A **yukata** (浴衣) is a Japanese garment, a casual summer kimono usually made of cotton or synthetic fabric, and unlined.

## **Overview**

Yukata are worn by men and women. Like other forms of traditional Japanese clothing, yukata are made with straight seams and wide sleeves. Men's yukata are distinguished by the shorter sleeve extension of approximately 10 cm from the armpit seam, compared to the longer 20 cm sleeve extension in women's yukata. A standard yukata ensemble consists of a cotton undergarment (juban), yukata, obi, bare feet, sandals (geta), a foldable or fixed hand fan, and a carry bag (kinchaku). Kinchaku are used by both men and women to carry cellphones and other small personal items. For men, an optional hat may also be worn to protect the head from the sun. Yukata literally means bath(ing) clothes, although their use is not limited to after-bath wear. Yukata are a common sight in Japan during the hot summer months.

The yukata was originally worn as a bathrobe, but in Japan currently, it is generally worn only as a summer garment. There are few regions where yukata is worn traditionally as bathrobes all year round. However, in some hot spring areas (e.g., Kinosaki Onsen, Kusatsu Onsen) it is possible to experience all-year-round the authenticity of wearing a yukata as a bathrobe while visiting the various onsens in town.

Traditionally yukata were mostly made of indigo-dyed cotton but today a wide variety of colors and designs are available. As with kimono, the general rule with yukata is that younger people wear bright, vivid colors and bold patterns, while older people wear dark, matured colors and dull patterns. A child may wear a multicolored print and a young woman may wear a floral print, while an older woman would confine herself to a traditional dark blue with geometric patterns. Men in general may wear solid dark colors. Since the late 1990s, yukata have experienced increasing popularity.

Yukata are worn at outdoor summer events such as hanabi (fireworks) displays and bon-odori festivals. Yukata are also worn at traditional Japanese inns (ryokan), especially after bathing in hot springs (onsen). In some onsen resort towns like Kinosaki, Dogo, Kurokawa and Kusatsu, it is also common to see guests strolling around town in their yukata and geta while onsen-hopping.

## **Customs**

The left side of the yukata is wrapped over the right side (commonly reversed with right over left when dressing a body for a funeral) and secured with an obi sash tied in a bow with the excess or with the koshi-himo. Traditionally the bow is placed in the back as historically bows tied in the front have represented prostitution. In private, such as after a bath, the yukata may be simply belted. Yukata are often worn with wooden sandals called geta, but tabi are not usually worn.
Tomozuna Stable (1891)

Tomozuna stable (友綱部屋, Miyagino-beya) was a stable of sumo wrestlers which was established in 1891 and was shut down in December 1946. It was revived in 1961 by Komusubi Tomoegata *(see Tomozuna stable page for reincarnation).*

## **History**

The stable was established in 1891 by former maegashira Kaizan who belonged to Tamagaki stable during his active career. The stable was home to the 22nd yokozuna Tachiyama who was the most dominant sumo wrestler of his era. In May 1921, former komusubi Yahazuyama took over the stable, but the stable gradually declined and It closed down in December 1946 with all its personnel transferring to Tatsunami stable.

## **Owners**

* 1921-1946: 7th Tomozuna (former komusubi Yahazuyama)
* 1891-1921: 6th Tomozuna (former maegashira Kaizan)

## **Notable Former Wrestlers**

* Tachiyama (the 22nd yokozuna)
* Wakashima (the 21st yokozuna) - *later left for Osaka Sumo*
* Yahatayama (former ozeki)
* Isenohama (former ozeki)
* Kunimiyama (former ozeki)
* Tachihikari (former ozeki) - *transferred to Takasago stable*
* Amagiyama (former maegashira)
Yamada Narihide

Yamada Narihide - 山田 成英 (born February 7, 1989) is a former South Korean professional sumo wrestler from Muju, North Jeolla Province. He made his debut in March 2004 and wrestled for Takanohana stable. His highest rank was jonidan 31 and he retired in September 2006.

## **Early Life**

Seongyeong Yu was born and in the city Muju in North Jeolla Province, however, his shusshin (birth-place) is listed as Gyeonggi Province. The sumo database lists his name as "Narihide Yamada" which is a Japanese name which indicates that he is either a Japanese-Korean or has lived in Japan prior to joining sumo. He entered the prestigious Takanohana stable at the age of fifteen in March 2004.

## **Career**

Wrestling under his Japanese family name of "Yamada" (山田), he struggled initially and fell back down to jonokuchi on multiple occasions. He established himself in the jonidan division after posting a strong 6-1 record in March 2005. He reached a career-best jonidan 31 in May 2006.

## **Retirement from Sumo**

Yamada sat out of the September 2006 tournament and his retirement from sumo was announced after the tournament.

After retirement he stayed in Japan and currently lives in Kawasaki, Kanagawa. According to his Facebook, he currently works as a cook at Four Seasons Hotel Tokyo at Otemachi.

## **Fighting Style**

Yamada was an oshi-sumo wrestler who prefers pushing and thrusting techniques to fighting on the mawashi. He won half of his bouts with a straightforward oshidashi, or push out.

## **Record**

### **Division Results**

* **Total:** 48-50-7/98 (16 basho)
* **Jonidan:** 30-40-7/70 (11 basho)
* **Jonokuchi:** 18-10/28 (4 basho)

## **Gallery**

Seongyeong Yu joins Takanohana Stable (c. 2004)Yamada during his time in maezumo (c. 2004)
Wakatakami Taro

Wakatakami Taro - 若高見 太郎 (born June 15, 1958 - September 18, 2006) was an American professional sumo wrestler from Honolulu, Oahu, Hawaii. He made his debut in July 1977 and wrestled for Takasago stable. His highest rank was makushita 40 and he retired in November 1983.

## **Early Life**

Bryn George was born on June 15, 1958, in Honolulu, Oahu, Hawaii, and is of Polynesian descent. He wrestled at Kahuku High & Intermediate School and finished second in the Hawaii State High School Wrestling Championship. and was recruited by Larry Aweau (a distant cousin of sekiwake Takamiyama and major sumo scout for Hawaii) to join Takasago stable.

## **Career**

Two days after graduating from Kahuku High School in 1977, George arrived at Haneda Airport where he was greeted by fellow Hawaiian Takamiyama. He made his professional debut under the ring name "Wakatakami Taro" (若高見) in the July 1977 tournament. His ring name Wakatakami literally translated to "Young Takami", where the Takami is derived from his mentor Takamiyama and the Taro is in honor of his stablemaster Asashio Taro. He produced a strong 6-1 record in his jonokuchi debut. He reached the sandanme division in May 1978, however, he found this division to be quite difficult and struggled to reach makushita. He was finally promoted to makushita in July 1981, but was unable to establish himself in the division. He reached a career-high makushita 40 in the July 1982 tournament. Wakatakami's retirement from sumo was announced after the November 1983 tournament.

## **Retirement from Sumo**

Due to a knee injury, Wakatakami announced his retirement prior to the November 1983 tournament. His danpatsu-shiki, or retirement ceremony, was held on October 1983 at the Tokyo Kaikan.

After sumo, he became an actor and was most known for his role as a sumo wrestler in the 1987 movie, *Hard Ticket to Hawaii*.

Bryn George died on September 18, 2006, in Hau'ula, Hawaii at the age of 48. He is survived by his mother and three brothers. His body was cremated.

## **Record**

### **Division Results**

* **Total:** 134-123-9/257 (39 basho)
* **Makushita:** 11-24/35 (5 basho)
* **Sandanme:** 86-75-7/161 (24 basho)
* **Jonidan:** 31-23-2/54 (8 basho)
* **Jonokuchi:** 6-1/7 (1 basho)

## **Gallery**

Wakatakami arrives in Japan with Takamiyama (c. 1977)Wakatakami serves Takamiyama water (c. 1977)Wakatakami during his time in maezumo (c. 1977)Wakatakami trains with Takamiyama (c. 1980)Wakatakami (right) pounds mochi with Konishiki (c. 1982)Wakatakami (middle) with Konishiki and Takamiyama (c. 1982)Wakatakami with fellow Americans Konishiki and Takamiyama (c. 1982)Wakatakami's danpatsu-shiki
(c. 1983)

## **Sources**

* Wakatakami Taro Rikishi Information
* George Wades Into Some Heavy Competition by Ferd Lewis (26 Mar 1977)
* Honolulu Advertiser, George Says Goodbye to Sumo by Ferd Lewis (25 Nov 1983)
* Big Happiness by Mark Panel (2006)
* Bryn George IMDB Profile
* Wakatakami Obituary
Tokomichi (tokoyama)

Tokomichi - 床路 (born November 13, 1987) is a Japanese professional sumo hairdresser from Himeji, Hyogo. He debuted in the May 2006 tournament and he belongs to Hakkaku stable. He reached the Third class in January 2017.

## **Career**

* May 2006 - Joined Hakkaku stable as a tokoyama
* January 2012 - Promoted to fourth class tokoyama (yonto - 四等)
* January 2017 - Promoted to third class tokoyama (santo - 三等)
Toyo University

Toyo University (東洋大学, *Toyo Daigaku*) is a university with several branches in Japan, including Hakusan, Asaka, Kawagoe, Itakura, and Akabane. The predecessor to Toyo University was *Shiritsu Tetsugakukan* (私立哲学館), which was founded at Rinsho-in Temple by Enryo Inoue in 1887. In 1906, the school was moved to its present site (Hakusan Campus) and its name was changed to Toyo University. The school's motto was "Protection of Country and Love of Truth"(護國愛理).

The University has a strong sumo program and has produced several top division wrestlers, including ozeki Mitakeumi. A list of all wrestlers who were members of Toyo University's sumo club is provided below. As of 2023, 21 members of Toyo University's sumo club have turned professional with 13 reaching the elite sekitori ranks.

## **List**

* Names in **bold** indicate a still active wrestler.
* Green row indicates wrestler reached the elite sekitori ranks.
Torakio Daiki

Torakio Daiki - 虎来欧 大輝 (born December 15th, 1996) is a former Bulgarian professional sumo wrestler from Plovdivtsi, Plovdiv. He made his debut in May 2017 and wrestled for Naruto stable. His highest rank was sandanme 15 and he retired in May 2019.

## **Early Life**

Ventsislav Nikolov Katsarov was born and raised in Plovidiv, Bulgaria. He was a successful freestyle wrestler and wrestled in the 2016 Junior World Championships, 120 kg category. He was scouted by fellow Bulgarian and ex-ozeki, Kotooshu, who was visiting Bulgaria in the summer of 2016. He was recruited into Kotooshu's newly established Naruto stable.

## **Career**

He was given the shikona "Torakio" (虎来欧) which means the "tiger from Europe". In his first professional tournament, he produced a strong 6-1 record and was promoted to jonidan for the following tournament. In this tournament, he was aiming for the jonidan yusho, but lost his last match to finish with a 6-1 record. Nonetheless, he was immediately promoted to the sandanme division. However, he could only produce two wins in his first sandanme tournament and was demoted back down to jonidan. He immediately returned to sandanme after one tournament in jonidan and would remain in the division for the rest of his career. In March 2019, he was promoted to a career-best sandanme 15.

## **Retirement from Sumo**

After losing his first six matches and barely winning his last in the March 2019 tournament, Torakio handed in his retirement papers on April 19th, citing personal reasons. His danpatsu-shiki, or retirement ceremony, was held in his stable. Upon retirement he returned to Bulgaria where he currently works as a fitness trainer.

## **Personal Life**

* According to his Facebook, he attended high school at Sts. Cyril and Methodius High School with Humanitarian Profile (ГХП „Св. св. Кирил и Методий“) and college at Higher School of Security and Economics (ВУСИ).

## **Fighting Style**

Torakio was a yotsu-sumo wrestler who prefers grappling to pushing and thrusting techniques. He won most of his bouts with a straightforward yorikiri, or force out. Due to his strength, he also liked to use lift out techniques to win. He used the extremely rare okuritsuriotoshi (rear lifting body slam) twice in the November 2017 tournament.

## **Record**

### **Division Results**

* **Total:** 40-29-8/69 (13 basho)
* **Sandanme:** 23-25-8/48 (8 basho)
* **Jonidan:** 11-3/14 (2 basho)
* **Jonokuchi:** 6-1/7 (1 basho)

## **Gallery**

Torakio gets recruited by fellow Bulgarian, Kotooshu (c. 2017)Torakio gets measured upon joining professional sumo (c. 2017)Torakio joins the newly opened Naruto stable (c. 2017)Torakio in Maezumo (c. 2017)Torakio defeats his opponent (c. 2017)Torakio graduates from sumo school (c. 2018)Torakio makes his way to the sumo stadium (c. 2018)Torakio prepares for his upcoming match (c. 2019)Torakio's retirement ceremony (c. 2019)

## **Sources**

* Torakio Daiki Rikishi Information
* Yajikora Article about Torakio
Wakayashima Masaki

Wakayashima Masaki - 若八洲 正己 (born December 29, 1960 - July 9, 2016) was an American professional sumo wrestler from Waianae, Oahu, Hawaii. He made his debut in July 1976 and wrestled for Futagoyama stable. His highest rank was sandanme 32 and he retired in September 1978.

## **Early Life**

Reid Asato began practicing sumo from an early age and was a member of the Oahu Sumo Club alongside John Collins (future Wakanonada). Asato and Collins first gained the attention of Futagoyama Oyakata (the 45th Yokozuna Wakanohana) during a trip to Japan in 1974 where the pair represented Hawaii at an amateur tournament. In March of 1976, Asato dropped out of Waianae High School to join Futagoyama stable alongside John Collins.

## **Career**

Asato made his professional debut in July 1976 under the shikona "Wakayashima" (若八洲). He had a strong start and he produced three consecutive winning records (kachi-koshi). He then started to struggle in the mid-jonidan ranks. In January 1978, he produced a perfect 7-0 record and claimed the jonidan yusho. As a result, he was promoted to a career-best sandanme 32 in March 1978.

## **Retirement from Sumo**

Beset by knee injuries, Wakayashima retired from sumo after the September 1978 tournament. After retiring from sumo, Asato returned to Hawaii before moving to the Los Angeles to become an actor. In the 1980s Reid Asato also participated in Amateur sumo tournaments in Hawaii.

After retirement, Asato became an actor. His first acting role was in 1986 where he portrayed a sumo wrestler in the comedy TV series, *Night Court*. He later portrayed Muto, a yakuza member, in the 1991 movie, *Showdown in Little Tokyo*. His most notable film appearance was when he acted as the Cyclops in the 1997 TV-mini series, *the Odyssey.* Other notable film/tv appearances include *New York Undercover (TV series)* and *2001: A Space Travesty*.

In addition to acting in movies, Asato also appeared in commercials and advertisements for Pepsi, Isuzu, Volkswagen, Chevrolet, Miller Beer and other major companies.

### **Death**

Reid Asato sadly passed away on July 9, 2016, in Brooklyn, New York, at the age of 55. He was a resident of Brooklyn, New York, at the time of his death. His body was cremated.

## **Record**

### **Division Results**

* **Total:** 42-42-7/84 (14 basho)
* **Sandanme:** 4-17/21 (3 basho)
* **Jonidan:** 33-23-7/56 (9 basho)
* **Jonokuchi:** 5-2/7 (1 basho)

## **Gallery**

Wakayashima with his stablemate Wakanonada (c. 1976)Wakayashima (middle) after winning the jonidan yusho (c. 1978)Wakayashima is interviewed after the jonidan yusho (c. 1978)

## **Sources**

* Wakayashima Masaki Rikishi Information
* Honolulu Advertiser Article: Hawaii adds two, 1976... by Ferd Davis
* Reid Asato IMDB Profile
* Reid Asato Obituary
Wakatenryu Yuzo

Wakatenryu Yuzo - 若天龍 祐三 (born January 1, 1940) is a former Japanese professional sumo wrestler from Nakagyo-ku, Kyoto City, Kyoto. He made his debut in March 1955 and wrestled for Hanakago stable. He reached the makuuchi division in September 1961 and has one kinboshi. His highest rank was maegashira 1 and he retired in July 1969.

## **Early Life**

He attended Kyoto Municipal Nishinokyo Junior High School where he was a member of the baseball club. After graduating from junior high school, he was recruited by former sekiwake Tenryu. He subsequently joined Hanakago stable and made his professional debut in March 1955.

## **Career**

### **Early Career**

He was given the shikona "Wakatenryu" (若天龍), named after his recruiter Tenryu. He was promoted to sandanme in September 1956 and makushita in November 1957. In July 1960 he produced a 6-1 record at the rank of makushita 2 and he was promoted to juryo for the following September 1960 tournament.

### **Juryo Career**

In his first tournament as a sekitori, Wakatenryu finished with a solid 10-5 record. In July 1961, he produced a strong 11-4 record at the rank of juryo 3 and was promoted to makuuchi for the following September 1961 tournament.

### **Makuuchi Career**

Wakatenryu was ranked in the top division for a total of 29 tournaments with his highest rank being maegashira 1. He never managed to reach the san'yaku level or earn any special prize. The highlight of his career came in November 1965 when he defeated Yokozuna Tochinoumi to earn his first and only career kinboshi. He fell down to juryo on several occasions, but he would eventually return to makuuchi. He won a total of two juryo yusho as well. His last makuuchi appearance came in January 1969 and he announced his retirement shortly after in July 1969.

## **Retirement from Sumo**

After retiring, he worked for a private company and coached the company's sumo club. He later opened up his own company in 1990 called "Kayukawa Kyogo" (粥川工業) in Nishinomiya, Hyogo.

## **Fighting Style**

Hananofuji was a yotsu-sumo wrestler who prefers grappling to pushing and thrusting techniques. He favored a hidari-yotsu (right hand outside, left hand inside) position when gripping his opponent's mawashi (belt). His most common kimarite was uwatenage, or overarm throw.

## **Record**

### **Division Results**

* **Total:** 533-493-2/1025 (82 basho)
* **Makuuchi:** 195-238-2/432 (29 basho)
* **Juryo:** 204-171/375 (25 basho)
* **Makushita:** 83-52/135 (17 basho)
* **Sandanme:** 25-15/40 (5 basho)
* **Jonidan:** 24-16/40 (5 basho)
* **Shinjo:** 2-1/3 (1 basho)

### **Championships**

* 2 **Juryo** Championships
	+ 1st (September 1962)
	+ 2nd (January 1964)

## **Shikona History**

* Wakatenryu Tatsu (1955.03 - 1960.07)
* Wakatenryu Yuzo (1960.09 - 1969.07)

## **Gallery**

Wakatenryu poses with his kesho-mawashi (c. 1967)Wakatenryu's retirement ceremony (c. 1969)Wakatenryu's tegata
## **Sources**

* Wakatenryu Yuzo Japanese Wikipedia Article
* Wakatenryu Yuzo Rikishi Information
Tsurugizan Taniemon II

## Tsurugizan Taniemon

Tsurugizan Taniemon - 剣山 谷右エ門 (born January 20, 1852 - November 21, 1910) was a Japanese professional sumo wrestler from Kamojima, Awa. He made his debut in May 1883 and last wrestled for Ikazuchi stable. He reached the makuuchi division in May 1883 and has two top division championships. His highest rank was ozeki and he retired in June 1892.

## **Career**

### **Osaka Sumo Career**

Born in Kamojima, Awa Province (currently Tokushima prefecture), Kumakichi Hara's father was a former Osaka sumo wrestler who fought under the name "Hibikiya Kumakichi" (響矢 熊吉). Hara joined Osaka sumo's Inagawa stable and made his professional debut in 1870. He reached makuuchi in May 1875 and was eventually promoted to ozeki in 1879. He was later given the shikona "Tsurugizan" (剣山) which was the name of a mountain in his hometown, however, he left Osaka sumo for the more competitive Tokyo sumo in 1882.

### **Tokyo Sumo Career**

Upon joining Tokyo sumo, he joined yokozuna Umegatani's Ikazuchi stable and made his debut in May 1883 at the komusubi position. After four tournaments as komusubi, he was promoted to sekiwake in May 1885 and subequently ozeki in January 1886. He won the equivalent of two makuuchi yusho, both in 1886, as the modern yusho system was not introduced until 1909. After six years as ozeki, he retired in June 1892.

## **Retirement from Sumo**

After retiring from sumo he remained in the sumo world as an elder under the name Musashigawa. He worked as a ringside judge during his post-sumo career and died on November 21, 1910, at the age of 58.

## **Record**

### **Division Results**

* **Total:** 70-26-79-14draws-1hold/111 (19 basho)
* **Makuuchi:** 70-26-79-14draws-1hold/111 (19 basho)

### **Championships**

* 2 Unofficial **Makuuchi** Championships
	+ 1st (January 1886)
	+ 2nd (May 1886)

## **Shikona History**

* Tsurugizan Kumajuro (1883.05 - 1883.05)
* Tsurugizan Taniemon (1884.01 - 1892.06)

## **Gallery**

19th century woodblock print of ozeki Tsurugizan Taniemon
## **Sources**

* Tsurugizan Taniemon Japanese Wikipedia Article
* Tsurugizan Taniemon Rikishi Information