Aonishiki Arata Becomes First Ukrainian to Win a Sumo Tournament

Ukrainian-born sumo wrestler Danylo Yavhusishyn, known professionally as Aonishiki Arata, has created history by becoming the first athlete from Ukraine to claim a major sumo tournament title. The 21-year-old secured victory at the Kyushu Grand Sumo Tournament after defeating Mongolian grand champion Hoshoryu in a decisive tie-breaker.

Historic Triumph at the Kyushu Tournament

Competing at the Fukuoka Kokusai Center, Aonishiki delivered a composed and powerful performance to seal the championship. His victory speech, given fluently in Japanese, reflected both gratitude and ambition as he expressed his goal of rising further in the sport’s rankings. His achievement marks a significant breakthrough for non-Japanese wrestlers emerging from conflict-affected regions.

Journey from War-torn Ukraine to Japan

Yavhusishyn left Ukraine shortly after the 2022 conflict escalated, initially taking refuge in Germany before moving to Japan to pursue professional sumo. Born in central Ukraine, he began practising sumo at the age of seven and became a national junior champion at 17. His age exempted him from military conscription, allowing him to continue his athletic career abroad.

Rapid Rise Through the Sumo Ranks

Since turning professional in July 2023, Aonishiki has moved swiftly through the divisions, reaching the upper ranks within a single year. His ascent is one of the fastest recorded since the modern six-tournament calendar was established in 1958. The Japan Sumo Association is expected to hold a special meeting to consider his promotion to the rank of ozeki, the position just below yokozuna.

Exam Oriented Facts

• Aonishiki Arata (Danylo Yavhusishyn) is the first Ukrainian to win a major sumo tournament.
• He won the 2025 Kyushu Grand Sumo Tournament after a tie-break victory over Hoshoryu.
• Aonishiki began practising sumo at age seven and turned professional in July 2023.
• His rise to the upper divisions is the fifth fastest since the 1958 tournament system began.

Future Prospects in Professional Sumo

Aonishiki’s win positions him as one of the most promising young wrestlers on the global stage. With discussions on a potential promotion underway, his success highlights both the internationalisation of sumo and the resilience of athletes who continue to excel despite displacement and adversity.