What is Jonokuchi? A Clear Explanation of the First Step in Grand Sumo for New Wrestlers

Introduction
               

Supervisor・Tsuyoshi Mizuguchi

He began practicing sumo in sixth grade, later advancing to Hotoku Gakuen High School and Ritsumeikan University before joining the Kasugayama stable to enter professional sumo. After retiring in 2016, he appeared in a popular subscription-based drama series titled Sanctuary. Currently, he runs his own YouTube channel, “Osumo Gucchan-neru,” where he shares videos on sumo training, techniques, and his experiences from his time as a professional wrestler.

Jonokuchi is the lowest division in professional sumo, where every wrestler begins their career. Even the greatest Yokozuna once stood here. In this stage, basic techniques, etiquette, and mental discipline are built, forming the foundation for future success.

Overview and Position of Jonokuchi

Jonokuchi is the starting point in professional sumo. It is the very bottom of the ranking ladder, and every wrestler’s career begins here. The ranking system is strict and follows the order below.

Rank OrderNameMain Features
1YokozunaHighest rank, no demotion until retirement
2OzekiYokozuna candidate, demotion possible if underperforming
3Sekiwake / KomusubiKey ranks known as “Sanyaku”
4MakuuchiMain division with top tournament matches
5JuryoFirst salaried division
6MakushitaHighly competitive, just below salaried ranks
7SandanmeTraining ground for both young and experienced wrestlers
8JonidanBasic skill development division
9JonokuchiLowest division, for newcomers and demoted wrestlers

As shown in the table, Jonokuchi is the first step in a sumo career. Even Ozeki and Yokozuna began their journeys here.


Conditions for Being in Jonokuchi

The criteria for wrestlers in Jonokuchi are clearly defined.

ConditionDescription
New RecruitWrestler who has just passed the new recruit examination
DemotedWrestler dropped significantly in ranking due to poor performance or absence
Special ReturnReturning from injury or illness, restarting from a low rank

Meeting these conditions places a wrestler in Jonokuchi. Performance in this division greatly affects future progress, so every bout is crucial from the start.


Characteristics of Jonokuchi Matches

Jonokuchi bouts are typically held in the early days and early hours of a tournament, often before the venue fills up with spectators. This makes each match especially important for the wrestlers.

AspectDetails
Number of BoutsUsually 7 per tournament
PromotionWinning record (especially undefeated) leads to promotion to Jonidan
DemotionLosing record results in remaining in Jonokuchi
AudienceFewer spectators than upper divisions, but dedicated sumo fans watch closely

The Path from Jonokuchi to Higher Ranks

Many Yokozuna and Ozeki began their careers in Jonokuchi. Winning all matches can lead to rapid promotion, but this requires high concentration and consistent technique.

RecordPromotion/Demotion Possibility
7–0Immediate promotion to Jonidan
6–1High chance of promotion
4–3Possible promotion or retention
3–4 or lessLikely to remain in Jonokuchi

Foreign Wrestlers and Jonokuchi

For foreign wrestlers, Jonokuchi is the first stage of experiencing Japanese sumo culture. During this period, they must adapt not only to training but also to learning Japanese and adjusting to local customs. All foreign Yokozuna have gone through this division, making it a time that tests mental resilience and adaptability.


Conclusion

Jonokuchi is not just the bottom of the rankings. It is a critical period that shapes future success. The basic techniques and mental strength built here form the foundation for advancement. For fans, it’s a chance to spot future stars early, and for wrestlers, it’s the place where the dream of reaching the top begins.

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