The current holder of the prestigious Yokozuna rank in professional sumo is Terunofuji Haruo.
Terunofuji Haruo: The Grand Champion
Terunofuji Haruo, whose real name is Gantulgyn Gan-Erdene, achieved the highest rank in sumo, Yokozuna, in July 2021. He is the 73rd wrestler in sumo history to attain this elite status. His journey to the top has been marked by remarkable resilience, overcoming significant injuries and setbacks to reach the pinnacle of the sport.
Terunofuji's career highlights include numerous championships and special prizes, showcasing his formidable skill and spirit. As of July 28, 2024, his notable achievements include:
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Highest Rank | Yokozuna (achieved July 2021) |
| Championships | - 10 Makuuchi (top division) - 2 Jūryō (second division) - 1 Makushita (third division) |
| Special Prizes | - Fighting Spirit (3 times) - Outstanding Performance (3 times) - Technique (3 times) |
For more detailed information, you can visit his official Wikipedia page: Terunofuji Haruo
The Significance of the Yokozuna Rank
The Yokozuna is the highest rank a sumo wrestler can achieve, symbolizing not only supreme strength and skill but also immense dignity and integrity. Unlike other ranks, a Yokozuna cannot be demoted; instead, they are expected to retire if their performance declines significantly. This makes the position incredibly challenging to maintain, requiring consistent dominance and exemplary conduct inside and outside the ring. Terunofuji's tenure as Yokozuna continues to exemplify the dedication and prowess required of a grand champion.
