25 Biggest Sumo Wrestlers: Heaviest Sumo Wrestler List
Sumo wrestling, the traditional Japanese sport, has captured the fascination of millions worldwide with its powerful athletes and captivating matches. The sport demands not only immense strength but also agility, stamina, and precise technique. Sumo wrestlers, known as rikishi, hold a special place in Japanese culture and are revered as celebrities. In this article, we explore the 25 biggest sumo wrestlers of all time, who have left an indelible mark on the sport.
- Orora Satoshi
Born: April 26, 1983, Zaigrayevo, Buryat ASSR, Soviet Union Height: 6’3” Weight: 292.6 Kg
Orora Satoshi is one of the largest sumo wrestlers in history. Inspired by sumo at a young age, he pursued a career in the sport and became the first Russian professional sumo wrestler. Orora reached a weight of 635 pounds, making him the heaviest professional sumo wrestler in history. He retired from professional sumo wrestling in September 2018.
- Yamamotoyama Ryuta
Born: May 8, 1984, Saitama, Japan Height: 6’4” Weight: 272 kg
Yamamotoyama Ryuta, also known as Yama, is a retired Japanese sumo wrestler who made waves with his enormous size. Standing at 6 feet 4 inches and weighing 600 pounds, Yama set a new record for the heaviest new recruit when he joined professional sumo. He retired from sumo wrestling in April 2011.
- Konishiki Yasokichi
Born: December 31, 1963, Honolulu, Oahu, Hawaii, U.S. Height: 6 ft 1⁄2 in Weight: 287 kg
Konishiki Yasokichi, fondly called “Konishiki” or “The Dump Truck,” was a behemoth in the sumo world. Hailing from Hawaii, he became a professional sumo wrestler in Japan in 1982. Konishiki weighed over 600 pounds at his heaviest and won seven championships during his career. He retired in 1997 and transitioned to become a television personality and entertainer.
- Kenho Mitsuo
Born: February 10, 1989 Osaki, Miyagi, Japan Height: 5’11” Weight: 250 Kg
Kenho Mitsuo is another giant of sumo wrestling history. With impressive weight and technique, he won several tournaments, showcasing his skills as a formidable opponent. Achieving the rank of Makushita 59, Kenho left a lasting impact on the sumo world.
- Amakaze Koichi
Born: July 7, 1991, Kagawa, Japan Height: 6’1” Weight: 176.6 kg
Amakaze Koichi, hailing from Kotohira, Kagawa, Japan, proved that size is not everything in sumo wrestling. Despite weighing 390 pounds, he showcased exceptional agility and skill. Rising to the top makuuchi division, Amakaze earned respect and admiration during his sumo career.
- Tominohana
Born: February 15, 1972, Keelung City, Taiwan Height: 6’1” Weight: 241.5 kg
Tominohana, a former sumo wrestler from Taiwan, displayed remarkable strength during his career. Weighing around 532 pounds at his heaviest, he left a lasting impression as one of the heaviest sumo wrestlers in history.
- Susanoumi Yoshitaka
Born: August 30, 1972 Chita, Aichi, Japan Height: 6’0” Weight: 240 kg
Susanoumi Yoshitaka, a homegrown talent from Japan, gained fame for his imposing size. At 529 pounds, he was one of the heaviest Japanese-born sumo wrestlers until Yamamotoyama surpassed him. Yoshitaka retired from professional sumo wrestling in March 2003.
- Musashimaru Koyo
Born: May 2, 1971, American Samoa Height: 6’2” Weight: 235 kg
Musashimaru Koyo, a legendary sumo wrestler from American Samoa, stood tall and mighty at 6 feet 2 inches and 518 pounds. He reached the prestigious rank of Yokozuna, the highest in sumo wrestling, and won a total of 11 championships during his illustrious career. Musashimaru retired from professional sumo in November 2003.
- Takaryu Naoya
Born: March 18, 1992, Kanazawa, Ishikawa, Japan Height: 5’11” Weight: 212 kg
Takaryu Naoya, one of the biggest sumo wrestlers in the world, showcased impressive skills in the ring. Weighing 467 pounds, he used his weight to great advantage, flipping and throwing opponents with ease. He announced his retirement from sumo in May 2021.
- Akebono Taro
Born: May 8, 1969, Waimānalo, Hawaii, United States Height: 6’8” Weight: 233 kg
Akebono Taro, an American-born sumo wrestler, was an imposing figure on the dohyo (sumo ring). Standing at over 6 feet 8 inches and weighing over 500 pounds, he was the first foreign-born wrestler to reach the rank of Yokozuna. Akebono won a total of 11 championships during his remarkable career.
Conclusion
The world of sumo wrestling has seen some of the most impressive athletes in history, with these 25 biggest sumo wrestlers leaving an enduring legacy in the sport. From towering heights to incredible weights, these rikishi showcased exceptional skill, agility, and strength, captivating audiences worldwide. While size plays a significant role in sumo wrestling, it is also a sport that requires technique, strategy, and determination. These legendary wrestlers have proven that sumo wrestling is a true testament to the power and grace of athletic prowess. As we celebrate their contributions to the sport, we eagerly anticipate the rise of new talents in
