A Ukrainian refugee has become the first person from his country to win an elite-level sumo tournament.
Danylo Yavhusishyn - known by his sumo ring name Aonishiki - arrived in Japan as an 18-year-old in 2022 after the Russian invasion of his country. Now aged 21, he is the first Ukrainian to claim the prized Emperor's Cup and the first European in almost eight years to do so.
Aonishiki finished the 15-day tournament in Fukuoka, Japan, with a record of 12 wins and three losses and went on to win the championship play-off against Yokozuna grand champion Hoshoryu, a 26-year-old Mongolian who won last month's London tournament. In his winning ceremony interview, Aonishiki was asked if he felt satisfied with his results after three years in sumo.
No, I think this is just the beginning, he responded.
The name Aonishiki contains the Japanese character for blue - a reference to the Ukrainian flag. His journey to the top of sumo wrestling has captivated fans both in Japan and worldwide.
Aonishiki is only the second Ukrainian in the top division in sumo. He first tried sumo aged seven and has impressed in youth amateur sumo competitions. After fleeing to Germany with his family post-invasion, he moved to Japan by himself in April 2022, overcoming language barriers and cultural adjustments.
Despite being new to professional sumo, he has garnered a following with his unique techniques and dedication. He recently earned high praise at the Grand Sumo Tournament in London, where he was one of the most cheered wrestlers.
Aonishiki is now on the verge of being promoted to the second-highest rank of Ozeki, in what would be the fastest promotion in the sport's history, and is considered a strong candidate to become the first European to reach sumo's highest rank of Yokozuna grand champion.
