Sumo wrestling is full of unique systems and terms. One of them, “Rikishi Yoseiin” (力士養成員), may be unfamiliar to those new to the sport. This article provides a clear explanation of what a rikishi yoseiin is, tailored for sumo beginners and international fans. Understanding this term will help you better appreciate the world of sumo and its deep cultural traditions.
What is a Rikishi Yoseiin?
A rikishi yoseiin refers to sumo wrestlers ranked below the sekitori (juryo and above). These include wrestlers in the jonokuchi, jonidan, sandanme, and makushita divisions. The sumo ranking system is structured like a pyramid, with yokozuna at the top, followed by ozeki, sekiwake, komusubi, and maegashira in the makuuchi division. Below these are the juryo-ranked wrestlers, and further below are those considered rikishi yoseiin.
Only wrestlers who reach juryo or higher are referred to as sekitori, which is a title of professional status. Those ranked below this level are still in training and collectively called rikishi yoseiin. They are aspiring professionals, dedicating themselves to grueling practice with the goal of reaching the top.
Key Differences Between Rikishi Yoseiin and Sekitori
| Category | Rikishi Yoseiin | Sekitori (Juryo and Above) |
|---|---|---|
| Rank | Below Makushita | Juryo, Makuuchi |
| Salary | No base salary, only allowances | Monthly salary with bonuses |
| Mawashi (Belt) | Black cotton (for practice only) | Silk kesho-mawashi and competition-use |
| Ring Entrance | Not allowed | Allowed in ceremonial parades |
| Personal Freedom | Highly restricted | Relatively free |
The difference in status, income, and freedom between a rikishi yoseiin and a sekitori is significant. Still, all rikishi yoseiin strive daily to rise through the ranks.
A Day in the Life of a Rikishi Yoseiin
The life of a rikishi yoseiin is disciplined and centered around practice and responsibilities within the sumo stable.
| Time | Daily Routine |
|---|---|
| 5:00 – 6:00 | Wake up, clean, prepare for training |
| 6:00 – 10:00 | Morning practice (technique and strength) |
| 10:00 – 12:00 | Meal, bath, short break |
| 13:00 – 15:00 | Chores, errands, serving higher-ranked wrestlers |
| After 15:00 | Additional training or personal time |
| Around 21:00 | Sleep |
In addition to practicing, they often assist senior wrestlers with daily needs, which is part of their learning and discipline.
How to Become a Rikishi Yoseiin
To become a rikishi yoseiin, one must join a sumo stable (heya) and meet criteria set by the Japan Sumo Association.
| Criteria | Requirements |
|---|---|
| Age | Generally under 23 years old |
| Education | Minimum of junior high school graduate |
| Height | At least 167 cm |
| Weight | At least 67 kg |
| Health | Must pass a physical exam |
Once admitted, they start from the bottom rank of jonokuchi. Foreign nationals can also join if they meet the same criteria.
Hierarchy in a Sumo Stable
A strict hierarchy governs life in a sumo stable, and rikishi yoseiin are at the lower levels.
| Position | Main Responsibilities |
|---|---|
| Stablemaster | Head coach and manager of the stable |
| Sekitori | Role models, receive help from junior wrestlers |
| Makushita Level | Split duties between training and chores |
| Lower Divisions | Assist with cleaning, cooking, errands, etc. |
Following this hierarchy is essential for maintaining order and respect in sumo culture.
Foreign Wrestlers and the Yoseiin System
Today, many foreign wrestlers begin their careers as rikishi yoseiin and go on to become top-ranked sekitori.
| Country | Notable Wrestlers | Highest Rank Achieved |
|---|---|---|
| Mongolia | Hakuho, Asashoryu | Yokozuna (both retired) |
| Georgia | Tochinoshin | Former Sekiwake |
| Bulgaria | Kotooshu | Now an oyakata (stablemaster) |
These wrestlers start from the lowest ranks and face language and cultural barriers, but many overcome these to achieve greatness.
Life After Promotion to Sekitori
Promotion from rikishi yoseiin to sekitori brings dramatic changes—and new responsibilities.
| Aspect | Change |
|---|---|
| Salary | Stable income starts at juryo rank |
| Ring Entry | Allowed to wear ceremonial kesho-mawashi |
| Personal Life | Freedom to marry, own a car, live outside |
| Leadership | Expected to mentor junior wrestlers |
Becoming a sekitori is recognition of success as a professional sumo wrestler.
Life After Retirement
Not all rikishi yoseiin make it to the top. Many retire before reaching sekitori, and post-retirement paths vary.
| Pathway | Examples of Activities |
|---|---|
| Within Sumo | Coaches, trainers, administrative roles |
| Restaurant Business | Opening chanko-nabe or Japanese food shops |
| Media/Entertainment | TV appearances, sumo commentary, MMA |
| Regular Jobs | Utilizing their sumo experience in other fields |
Efforts are being made to support their second careers, and opportunities continue to expand.
Conclusion
Rikishi yoseiin are the foundation of sumo’s future. Despite the lack of fame and freedom, they train intensely, live with discipline, and aim to climb the ranks. Understanding their efforts helps fans appreciate the dedication and tradition that support each match.
For international fans and beginners, learning about rikishi yoseiin is an essential step to understanding the true spirit of sumo. Without their dedication, the grand stage of sumo would not exist.
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