What is a Sekitori? A Must-Know Guide for International Sumo Fans on Promotions and Lifestyle

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.

The word “sekitori” represents more than just a rank. It is a symbol of professional status and cultural responsibility in the world of sumo. This article offers an easy-to-understand guide to the position of sekitori, how one earns this title, and their role in Japanese tradition.

What Is a Sekitori? Their Unique Position in the Sumo World

Sumo wrestlers are classified by a strict ranking system, progressing through lower divisions such as Jonokuchi, Jonidan, Sandanme, and Makushita. Above these ranks lie the Juryo and Makuuchi divisions, and wrestlers who reach these top levels are called “sekitori”. Becoming a sekitori significantly changes a wrestler’s life and status. For example, they start receiving a monthly salary and wear elaborate kesho-mawashi (decorative aprons) during tournaments. They also gain assistants, known as tsukibito, and their place in society as professional athletes becomes well established.

CategorySekitori (Juryo and above)Below Sekitori (Makushita and lower)
DivisionJuryo, MakuuchiMakushita, Sandanme, Jonidan, etc.
Monthly SalaryOver ¥1,000,000None (only allowances)
Ring EntranceYes (with decorative apron)No
AssistantsHas tsukibitoBecomes a tsukibito
AttireSilk mawashi and kesho-mawashiSimple training mawashi

Clearly, the term sekitori represents the transition into full professional status in the world of sumo.

Difference Between Sekitori and Yokozuna

The terms “sekitori” and “yokozuna” are often confused, but they are distinct. Sekitori refers to all wrestlers in the top two divisions, whereas Yokozuna is the highest possible title, sitting atop the sekitori hierarchy. Achieving the title of yokozuna requires not only a string of victories but also outstanding performance, dignity, and exemplary character. Unlike other ranks, yokozuna cannot be demoted and must retire if they cannot uphold their status.

RankDescription
YokozunaHighest rank. Must show skill and dignity. Cannot be demoted
OzekiNext highest rank. Requires consistent performance
Sekiwake & KomusubiMid-tier in Makuuchi division
MaegashiraBasic Makuuchi rank
JuryoEntry-level sekitori rank

All yokozuna are sekitori, but not all sekitori are yokozuna. This distinction is key to understanding sumo’s structure.

How to Become a Sekitori

To become a sekitori, a wrestler must reach the upper part of the Makushita division and achieve outstanding results—typically winning six or seven out of seven matches. In addition to their record, the Sumo Association considers the quality of performance, potential, and even personality when deciding promotions.

Promotion CriteriaDescription
Win Record6–1 or 7–0 in upper Makushita
Match QualityDemonstrates strength, stability, and versatility
Opponent LevelWins against higher-ranked wrestlers
Attitude & PotentialConsidered by judging committee

Promotion to sekitori means a complete lifestyle shift, with better accommodations, travel, attire, and status. It’s a milestone that represents recognition of both skill and promise.

Daily Life of a Sekitori: Salary and Privileges

Once promoted, sekitori receive not just base salary but also bonuses for winning records, stipends for touring, and other incentives. This brings a new level of financial stability. They are given private rooms, allowed to travel by airplane or bullet train, and enjoy custom-fitted attire.

ItemSekitori Privilege
Monthly PayOver ¥1 million plus bonus
HousingPrivate rooms with amenities
MealsMore freedom in diet, access to private chefs
TravelAirplanes and Shinkansen allowed
AttireManaged by assistants

Their lifestyle changes dramatically—not just physically, but mentally. They also begin mentoring junior wrestlers, reinforcing their role as leaders in the sumo world.

Cultural Role of Sekitori: Guardians of Tradition

Sumo is deeply connected to Shinto traditions, and sekitori are its central figures. From ceremonial ring entrances to the final bow-drawing ritual, their presence is crucial. They are expected to lead by example not just in training, but in public behavior and etiquette.

Cultural DutyDescription
Ring-EnteringSignature ritual showcasing status
Bow-TwirlingClosing ceremony highlighting respect
Media AppearancesFan and press engagement
MentorshipCoaching and setting examples for juniors
Event AttendanceRepresents sumo at religious and public events

The sekitori is more than a competitor—they are living symbols of cultural continuity.

Foreign-Born Sekitori and Global Sumo Popularity

Recently, many foreign-born wrestlers, particularly from Mongolia and Georgia, have achieved sekitori status. These athletes work hard to learn Japanese, follow customs, and master the techniques and values of sumo.

CountryNotable Sekitori
MongoliaHakuho, Asashoryu, Terunofuji
GeorgiaTochinoshin
BulgariaKotooshu
BrazilKaio

Their presence has helped boost sumo’s international popularity and shown that the spirit of sumo transcends cultural boundaries. These wrestlers embody a fusion of global ambition and Japanese tradition.

Conclusion

A sekitori is not just a rank—it is a title earned through effort, skill, and character. These wrestlers carry the weight of tradition, the hopes of their stables, and the admiration of fans around the world. For international audiences, understanding the role of a sekitori means connecting more deeply with Japanese culture itself. They are heroes of the dohyo, and their journey is one of discipline, pride, and honor.

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