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 Order | Name | Main Features |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Yokozuna | Highest rank, no demotion until retirement |
| 2 | Ozeki | Yokozuna candidate, demotion possible if underperforming |
| 3 | Sekiwake / Komusubi | Key ranks known as “Sanyaku” |
| 4 | Makuuchi | Main division with top tournament matches |
| 5 | Juryo | First salaried division |
| 6 | Makushita | Highly competitive, just below salaried ranks |
| 7 | Sandanme | Training ground for both young and experienced wrestlers |
| 8 | Jonidan | Basic skill development division |
| 9 | Jonokuchi | Lowest 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.
| Condition | Description |
|---|---|
| New Recruit | Wrestler who has just passed the new recruit examination |
| Demoted | Wrestler dropped significantly in ranking due to poor performance or absence |
| Special Return | Returning 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.
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Number of Bouts | Usually 7 per tournament |
| Promotion | Winning record (especially undefeated) leads to promotion to Jonidan |
| Demotion | Losing record results in remaining in Jonokuchi |
| Audience | Fewer 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.
| Record | Promotion/Demotion Possibility |
|---|---|
| 7–0 | Immediate promotion to Jonidan |
| 6–1 | High chance of promotion |
| 4–3 | Possible promotion or retention |
| 3–4 or less | Likely 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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