How Many Yokozuna at Once? Understanding the Rarity and Significance of Sumo's Highest Rank

The question of "how many yokozuna at once" is something that often sparks curiosity among both seasoned sumo enthusiasts and newcomers to the sport. When I first got hooked on sumo, it wasn't just the sheer power and grace of the rikishi that captivated me, but also the mystique surrounding the highest rank, Yokozuna. I remember watching a particular tournament where there were three Yokozuna competing, and it felt like a truly momentous occasion. The air in the arena, even through the television screen, seemed to crackle with anticipation. This rarity, this feeling that you're witnessing something truly special, is deeply tied to the very nature of the Yokozuna rank. To directly answer the question: there is no set limit on how many yokozuna can exist at any given time. However, historical precedent and the stringent criteria for promotion mean that there are rarely more than a handful, and often only one or two, actively competing.

The Elite Circle: Defining the Yokozuna Rank

The Yokozuna is the undisputed pinnacle of sumo wrestling. It's not merely a title; it's a status bestowed upon a wrestler who has demonstrated not only unparalleled skill and dominance in the ring but also immense dignity, strength, and grace outside of it. The promotion committee, known as the Yokozuna Deliberation Council, meticulously evaluates candidates. This council, composed of former wrestlers, sumo association officials, and respected cultural figures, looks for more than just wins and losses. They assess a wrestler's character, their attitude towards training, their respect for the sport's traditions, and their ability to inspire. It's this holistic approach that makes becoming a Yokozuna an extraordinary achievement and, consequently, keeps the number of active Yokozuna inherently small.

To truly grasp the significance of "how many yokozuna at once," we need to delve into the historical context and the evolving standards of promotion. Throughout sumo's long history, periods of abundance and scarcity of Yokozuna have occurred. For instance, in the early to mid-20th century, it wasn't uncommon to see three or even four active Yokozuna. However, the latter half of the 20th century and the beginning of the 21st century saw a notable shift. The criteria for promotion became even more rigorous, and the standards for maintaining the rank intensified. This led to periods where the sumo world celebrated the elevation of a new Yokozuna after long droughts, or conversely, mourned the retirement of the last active Yokozuna, leaving the rank vacant for a significant duration.

Criteria for Yokozuna Promotion: More Than Just Wins

Becoming a Yokozuna is an arduous journey, a testament to years, often decades, of dedication and sacrifice. The primary pathway to Yokozuna promotion involves achieving consistent success at the Ozeki rank, the second-highest division. Specifically, a wrestler is typically expected to win at least two consecutive tournaments (basho) while holding the Ozeki rank, or to demonstrate a performance equivalent to winning two consecutive championships over a sustained period. However, as I've observed and learned, simply achieving these win totals isn't a guaranteed ticket to the top. The Yokozuna Deliberation Council has considerable discretion.

The council's deliberation process is a critical element that influences how many yokozuna can be active simultaneously. They consider several qualitative factors, often referred to as the "three virtues" of Yokozuna: strength (力 - chikarashi), skill (技 - waza), and spirit (気 - ki). Strength and skill are quantifiable to some extent through tournament results, but spirit is more nuanced. It encompasses a wrestler's fighting spirit, their ability to overcome adversity, their sportsmanship, and their overall demeanor. A Yokozuna is expected to carry themselves with humility and dignity, even in defeat. A wrestler who shows arrogance or a lack of respect for the traditions of sumo, even if they are winning, might be overlooked for promotion.

My personal understanding of this process deepened when I followed the career of Kitanoumi. He was a dominant force in his era, and his promotion to Yokozuna was a celebrated event. But what truly struck me was how his consistent excellence, coupled with a dignified presence, made him the embodiment of the Yokozuna ideal. When you see such a wrestler, you understand why the bar is set so high. It’s about more than just winning matches; it’s about embodying the spirit of sumo itself. This meticulous evaluation process naturally limits the number of individuals who can attain and hold this esteemed position.

The criteria can be summarized as follows:

Sustained Excellence at Ozeki: Typically, winning two consecutive tournaments as an Ozeki or demonstrating equivalent dominance over a period.
Overall Career Record: A strong track record of success throughout their career, not just in recent tournaments.
Fighting Spirit and Determination: The ability to fight with tenacity and never give up, even when facing setbacks.
Dignity and Sportsmanship: A respectful attitude towards opponents, officials, and the traditions of sumo.
Physical and Mental Strength: The resilience to withstand the rigors of sumo and the mental fortitude to perform under immense pressure.

Historical Peaks and Troughs in Yokozuna Numbers

The number of Yokozuna active at any given time has varied significantly throughout sumo's history, offering a fascinating glimpse into the sport's dynamics. Examining these historical patterns helps us understand why the current rarity of multiple Yokozuna is not an anomaly but rather a recurring theme, albeit with shifts in the underlying reasons.

In the early 20th century, and even prior, it was not uncommon for the top echelon of sumo to feature several Yokozuna simultaneously. For instance, during the Taisho and early Showa eras (roughly 1910s-1940s), periods with three or even four active Yokozuna were not unheard of. This was partly due to different promotion standards and perhaps a slightly less stringent evaluation process compared to modern times. Wrestlers like Futabayama Sadaji, considered one of the greatest of all time, commanded immense respect and often shared the top rank with contemporaries of similar caliber.

A notable period of flux occurred in the latter half of the 20th century. The 1970s and 1980s saw legendary Yokozuna like Kitanoumi, Takanosato, Chiyonofuji, and Hokutoumi, creating a vibrant era with multiple top-ranked wrestlers. Chiyonofuji, in particular, stands out for his remarkable career, often dominating tournaments and redefining what it meant to be a Yokozuna with his lean physique and exceptional technique. During his reign, there were often two or three other Yokozuna active, making for incredibly compelling tournaments. The competition among these giants was fierce, and each Yokozuna brought a unique fighting style and personality to the dohyo.

However, the late 1990s and early 2000s saw a significant decline in the number of active Yokozuna. This period is often referred to as a "dark age" by some fans because of the lack of dominant figures at the very top. Wrestlers like Takanohana II and Wakanohana III, while immensely popular and talented, faced injuries that hampered their careers. For extended periods, there was often only one active Yokozuna, or even none at all. For example, there were times when the sole active Yokozuna retired, leaving the rank vacant, and the sumo world eagerly awaited the promotion of a new one. This scarcity heightened the drama and anticipation whenever a new Yokozuna was finally crowned.

Let's look at some historical examples of Yokozuna numbers:

Era	Notable Yokozuna	Typical Number of Active Yokozuna	Key Characteristics
Taisho/Early Showa (1910s-1940s)	Futabayama Sadaji, Minanogawa Tōkichirō	2-4	Relatively higher number, strong nationalistic sentiment often associated with top wrestlers.
Post-War to 1970s	Azumafuji Kin'ichi, Tochinoumi Yutaka, Kashiwado Tsuyoshi, Taiho Kōki	1-3	Transition period, emergence of iconic figures like Taiho, who held the rank for a record 16 tournaments.
1980s-1990s	Chiyonofuji Mitsugu, Hokutoumi Nobuyoshi, Ōtakeyama Masao (Takanosato), Kitanoumi Toshimitsu	2-3	Golden era with legendary rivalries and multiple dominant Yokozuna. Chiyonofuji's era was particularly strong.
Late 1990s - Early 2000s	Takanohana II, Wakanohana III, Akebono Tarō, Musashimaru Kōyō	1-2 (often fluctuating, sometimes zero)	Challenges with injuries, fewer promotions, periods of vacancy in the Yokozuna rank.
Mid-2000s - 2010s	Asashōryū Akinori, Hakuho Shō, Chiyannokuni Toshiki, Kisenosato Yutaka	1-3	Resurgence with dominant Yokozuna like Asashōryū and Hakuho, followed by a period where Kisenosato was the sole hope.
Late 2010s - Present	Hakuho Shō, Kisenosato Yutaka, Kakuryu Rikisaki, Terunofuji Haruo	0-2	Hakuho's retirement marked a significant shift. Periods with no active Yokozuna, followed by the emergence of Terunofuji.

This table illustrates that the number of Yokozuna is fluid. It's not a static figure but rather a reflection of the current crop of elite talent and the strictness with which the promotion standards are applied. My personal fascination lies in how these ebbs and flows shape the narrative of sumo. When there are multiple Yokozuna, the competition for supremacy is intense and multifaceted. When there's only one, or none, the focus shifts to that individual (or the potential emergence of one), creating a different kind of narrative tension. It's a constant cycle of anticipation and resolution.

The Impact of Multiple Yokozuna on Tournaments

When there are multiple Yokozuna competing, the dynamics of a sumo tournament, or basho, become incredibly heightened. The sheer presence of several wrestlers at the sport's apex creates an atmosphere of unparalleled excitement and unpredictability. Each match involving a Yokozuna is treated with immense gravity, and bouts between two Yokozuna are considered the ultimate spectacle.

Firstly, the competition for the championship (yusho) is naturally more intense. With multiple top contenders, it's less likely for one wrestler to run away with the title. This leads to more dramatic shifts in the standings throughout the 15-day tournament. A single loss for a Yokozuna can have significant repercussions, potentially opening the door for rivals. This constant pressure to perform flawlessly is what makes watching tournaments with several Yokozuna so captivating. You're witnessing a high-stakes chess match played out with raw power and skill.

Secondly, the bouts between Yokozuna themselves become focal points. These are not just matches; they are clashes of titans, often deciding the fate of the tournament. The rivalries that develop between multiple Yokozuna can define an era. Think of the legendary matchups between Chiyonofuji and Takanosato, or later, between Hakuho and Asashoryu. These were not just about winning; they were about establishing dominance and legacy. The outcomes of these specific bouts ripple through the entire tournament, influencing not only the championship race but also the morale and future performances of the wrestlers involved.

From a fan's perspective, as I am, having multiple Yokozuna means you have more than one reason to be glued to every single match. You're not just rooting for your favorite wrestler; you're watching history unfold, seeing the best of the best vie for ultimate glory. It elevates the entire sport.

Here's how multiple Yokozuna can impact a tournament:

Increased Championship Competition: More contenders mean a tighter race for the yusho, leading to greater suspense.
High-Profile Yokozuna vs. Yokozuna Bouts: These matchups become marquee events, often deciding the tournament's outcome.
Heightened Spectacle and Fan Engagement: The presence of multiple Yokozuna naturally draws more attention and interest.
Greater Pressure on Each Yokozuna: Every match is crucial, as even one loss can be costly in the championship race.
Development of Epic Rivalries: Long-standing rivalries between top-ranked Yokozuna define eras and become legendary.

The Significance of a Vacant Yokozuna Rank

Conversely, periods where the Yokozuna rank is vacant, or only has one active wrestler, carry their own unique significance and narrative. When the Yokozuna title is empty, or held by a single individual facing immense pressure, it often signals a period of transition or uncertainty in the sumo world. This scarcity, while potentially disappointing for fans seeking the ultimate showdowns, also amplifies the importance of the wrestlers vying for promotion and the singular figure(s) holding the rank.

A vacant Yokozuna rank creates a palpable sense of anticipation for a new champion to emerge. The focus intensifies on the top Ozeki wrestlers who are considered strong candidates for promotion. Their performance in subsequent tournaments becomes even more scrutinized, as the sumo association and fans alike are eager to see a new standard-bearer for the sport. This pressure can be a double-edged sword: it can either propel a wrestler to new heights or lead to performance anxiety.

When there is only one active Yokozuna, that individual becomes the singular symbol of sumo's prestige. All eyes are on them. They carry the weight of expectation not just to win, but to uphold the honor and dignity of the Yokozuna. Their victories are celebrated with immense enthusiasm, as they represent the continuation of sumo's highest ideals. However, their defeats are also felt more keenly, as they can leave the rank vulnerable or vacant.

My personal experience watching Hakuho dominate for so many years, often as the sole active Yokozuna for extended periods, was a masterclass in sustained excellence under extreme pressure. While some fans yearned for more rivals at his level, his consistent victories were a testament to his unparalleled skill and mental fortitude. Yet, the anticipation whenever an Ozeki like Kisenosato performed exceptionally well, hinting at a potential promotion, was electric. It demonstrated that even in eras with fewer Yokozuna, the allure of the rank and the possibility of a new champion always keeps the sport vibrant.

The impact of a vacant or single Yokozuna rank includes:

Intensified Focus on Ozeki Candidates: Wrestlers on the cusp of promotion become major storylines.
Heightened Pressure on the Sole Yokozuna: A single Yokozuna carries the full symbolic weight of the sport.
Narrative of Scarcity and Anticipation: The search for a new Yokozuna becomes a dominant theme.
Emphasis on Tradition and Legacy: The importance of upholding the Yokozuna's reputation is amplified.
Potential for Fan Disappointment: Lack of top-tier matchups can sometimes lead to decreased excitement for those seeking grand rivalries.

Yokozuna Succession: The Enduring Cycle

The concept of Yokozuna succession is a fascinating aspect of sumo that directly influences how many yokozuna can be active at once. It's not a formal process with set dates or quotas, but rather an organic evolution driven by performance, the aging of existing Yokozuna, and the emergence of new talent. The cycle of a Yokozuna's career – from promotion to their peak, and eventual retirement – creates natural openings and closings in the elite ranks.

When a Yokozuna retires, whether due to age, injury, or a decline in performance, it creates a vacancy. This vacancy is keenly felt by the sumo world, and the pressure mounts on the remaining Yokozuna and the top Ozeki wrestlers. The deliberating council then has the crucial task of identifying the most worthy successor, a process that can sometimes take time and involve careful consideration of multiple candidates.

I recall the retirement of Hakuho, arguably the greatest Yokozuna of all time. His departure from the ring left a void that was deeply felt. For years, he had been the undisputed king of sumo, often competing against fewer rivals at his own level. His retirement immediately shifted the landscape, putting more pressure on the other Yokozuna (like Kakuryu and Terunofuji when he made his comeback) and opening the door for the Ozeki ranks to produce a new generation of potential Yokozuna. This succession is what keeps the sport dynamic and prevents stagnation. It ensures that there is always a pathway for aspiring wrestlers to reach the pinnacle, and for the sumo hierarchy to remain relevant.

The process of succession involves:

Retirement of Existing Yokozuna: Age and injuries naturally lead to retirements, creating vacancies.
Performance of Top Ozeki: Wrestlers consistently performing at a championship level as Ozeki are closely watched.
Deliberation Council's Assessment: The council evaluates candidates based on skill, spirit, and character.
Organic Emergence of Talent: Sometimes, a wrestler's dominance makes their promotion inevitable and widely anticipated.
Periods of Scarcity: It's common for the rank to be temporarily vacant or have fewer than ideal numbers as the sport navigates transitions.

The "Three Yokozuna Rule" Myth and Reality

A common misconception among some fans is the existence of a "three Yokozuna rule," suggesting that if there are already three Yokozuna, a fourth cannot be promoted. This is simply not true. There is no official rule limiting the number of Yokozuna to three or any other specific figure. The number of Yokozuna at any given time is determined solely by the performance and character of eligible wrestlers and the judgment of the Yokozuna Deliberation Council.

However, the idea behind this "myth" likely stems from the fact that having three or more active Yokozuna has been relatively rare in recent decades, especially compared to earlier eras. The extreme difficulty of reaching the Yokozuna rank in the modern era, coupled with the high standards for maintaining it, naturally leads to smaller numbers. When the council does consider promoting a fourth Yokozuna in a period where three already exist, it would indeed be a significant event, prompting considerable discussion and scrutiny.

The deliberation council's decisions are often influenced by the overall strength and depth of talent within the sport. If there are multiple Ozeki wrestlers who are demonstrably performing at a Yokozuna level and embodying the ideal qualities, the council might feel compelled to promote them, regardless of how many Yokozuna are already active. Conversely, even if there are few Yokozuna, if no Ozeki meets the stringent criteria, promotion will be withheld. It's all about merit and the council's interpretation of the Yokozuna ideal.

To clarify:

There is no official limit on the number of Yokozuna.
The number is determined by the quality of candidates and the deliberation council's judgment.
The perception of a "rule" likely arises from the historical rarity of having more than two or three active Yokozuna in recent times due to stringent promotion criteria.

The Role of Foreign-Born Yokozuna

The rise of foreign-born wrestlers achieving the Yokozuna rank has been a significant development in modern sumo and has directly influenced discussions about "how many yokozuna at once." Initially, sumo was an almost exclusively Japanese sport, with its ranks deeply intertwined with Japanese cultural identity. The promotion of Azumafuji in 1943, a Hawaiian of Japanese descent, marked a turning point, but it was the arrival of wrestlers from Mongolia in the late 20th century that truly brought the issue of foreign-born Yokozuna to the forefront.

Wrestlers like Akebono, Musashimaru, Asashōryū, Hakuho, Kakuryū, and Terunofuji have not only achieved the Yokozuna rank but have also dominated the sport for extended periods. Their success has challenged traditional notions and demonstrated that the spirit and skill of sumo transcend nationality. The promotion of these athletes has sometimes led to debate, but their sustained excellence and adherence to the Yokozuna's code of conduct have largely silenced critics.

The presence of multiple foreign-born Yokozuna, such as the period when Hakuho, Asashōryū, and Kakuryū were all active, highlights that the rank is awarded based on merit, not origin. This internationalization has arguably enriched the sport, bringing diverse perspectives and fighting styles to the top. It also means that the pool of potential Yokozuna candidates is no longer limited by geography, though the challenges of adapting to Japanese culture and sumo's strict hierarchy remain significant for all foreign wrestlers.

My personal view is that the success of these athletes is a testament to the universal appeal of sumo's discipline and competition. Watching Hakuho, a Mongolian, embody the grace and power expected of a Yokozuna resonated with fans worldwide, including myself. It proved that the essence of sumo – respect, discipline, and fighting spirit – is not bound by nationality.

Yokozuna and the Sumo Association's Strategy

The Japan Sumo Association (JSA) plays a crucial role in managing the sport, and this includes its approach to Yokozuna promotions and the overall number of top-ranked wrestlers. The JSA is keen to maintain the prestige and appeal of the Yokozuna rank, as it is intrinsically linked to the sport's popularity and commercial success. Therefore, decisions about promotions are made with a strategic eye on maintaining interest and ensuring the sport's continued relevance.

When the sport is perceived to be lacking a strong Yokozuna presence, the JSA might subtly encourage the promotion of deserving Ozeki, recognizing that a stable of top stars is vital for attracting sponsors, media attention, and fans. Conversely, if the rank is "overcrowded" with wrestlers who are not consistently performing at their peak, it could dilute the impact of the title. This is where the deliberating council's judgment becomes paramount.

The JSA also has to navigate the public perception and cultural significance of the Yokozuna. The introduction of foreign-born Yokozuna, while welcomed by many for the sport's internationalization, initially required careful management to ensure traditional values were respected. The number of Yokozuna active at any given time is therefore not just a matter of wrestling results, but also a strategic consideration for the future of sumo as a national sport with global reach.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Yokozuna Numbers

How many Yokozuna are currently active?

As of my last update, the number of active Yokozuna can fluctuate. It's not uncommon to see periods with zero, one, or two active Yokozuna. For instance, after the retirement of Hakuho Shō, the rank was vacant for some time before Terunofuji Haruo, who had previously achieved the rank, made a remarkable comeback and was promoted again. The sumo world is always watching closely to see if any Ozeki wrestlers will rise to meet the stringent criteria for promotion, which would increase the number of active Yokozuna.

The dynamic nature of the Yokozuna rank means that checking current sumo standings is the best way to get the most up-to-date information. This fluidity is a key characteristic of the sport and contributes to its ongoing narrative and appeal. The absence of a Yokozuna can build anticipation for new promotions, while the presence of multiple Yokozuna guarantees intense competition.

Why are there rarely many Yokozuna at the same time?

The rarity of having many Yokozuna at the same time is primarily due to the extremely high and multifaceted standards required for promotion. It's not enough to simply win tournaments; a wrestler must also embody the "three virtues" of Yokozuna: strength, skill, and spirit. This includes demonstrating unwavering fighting spirit, exceptional technique, physical prowess, mental fortitude, and above all, dignity and respect for the traditions of sumo. The Yokozuna Deliberation Council meticulously evaluates candidates, and their judgment is final. This rigorous process naturally limits the number of individuals who can attain and maintain the rank, ensuring it remains the most exclusive and prestigious title in sumo.

Furthermore, the physical toll of sumo means that even the most dominant wrestlers face challenges with injuries, which can prematurely end careers or hinder performance. Maintaining the Yokozuna rank requires consistent excellence over long periods, and very few wrestlers can sustain this level of performance throughout their careers. Consequently, the number of active Yokozuna often hovers around one or two, with occasional periods of three or more during exceptional eras.

What happens if a Yokozuna's performance declines significantly?

A Yokozuna who experiences a sustained decline in performance, often marked by losing records in consecutive tournaments (a losing record is typically defined as winning fewer than half of their bouts, i.e., 7-8 or worse), faces immense pressure. Unlike other ranks, Yokozuna cannot be demoted. Instead, the wrestler is expected to retire voluntarily. The Yokozuna Deliberation Council will hold meetings to discuss the wrestler's performance and character. If the council believes the Yokozuna is no longer upholding the standards of the rank, they will strongly suggest retirement. While the wrestler is not technically forced to retire, societal and association pressure is immense, and a refusal to step down would be seen as a significant breach of tradition and respect for the sport. Most wrestlers, understanding the gravity of the situation and the importance of leaving the ring with honor, choose to retire rather than face continued scrutiny and potential disgrace.

This unique aspect of the Yokozuna rank underscores its status as more than just a competitive title. It’s a position of immense responsibility, requiring a wrestler to embody a certain ideal throughout their tenure. The expectation of voluntary retirement in cases of prolonged decline is a powerful mechanism for preserving the dignity and prestige associated with the Yokozuna name, ensuring that the rank is always associated with strength and excellence, even if that means fewer active Yokozuna at certain times.

Is there a difference in how Japanese and foreign-born wrestlers are treated for Yokozuna promotion?

While there have been historical debates and perceptions, the official stance and the general practice in modern sumo are that the criteria for Yokozuna promotion are the same for all wrestlers, regardless of their nationality. The Yokozuna Deliberation Council evaluates wrestlers based on their performance, skill, spirit, and character – the "three virtues" of sumo. The remarkable success and long reigns of foreign-born Yokozuna like Hakuho, Asashōryū, and Terunofuji demonstrate that nationality is not a barrier to reaching the sport's highest rank.

However, it's undeniable that foreign-born wrestlers face unique challenges. They must adapt to a completely different culture, learn a new language, and navigate the intricate social hierarchy of a sumo stable and the wider sumo association. These challenges can add an extra layer of difficulty to their journey. Furthermore, public perception and media coverage can sometimes differ, though the consistent excellence of top foreign wrestlers has largely led to widespread acceptance and admiration. Ultimately, when it comes to the crucial decision of Yokozuna promotion, the focus is on whether the wrestler embodies the qualities deemed essential for the rank, and this standard is officially applied equally to all.

What is the youngest and oldest age for a Yokozuna?

There isn't a strict age limit for becoming a Yokozuna, but the physical demands of sumo mean that wrestlers typically reach this elite rank in their mid-to-late twenties or early thirties, after years of dedicated training and competition. The youngest Yokozuna in history was Taihō Kōki, who was promoted at 22 years old in 1961. More recently, Kisenosato Yutaka was promoted at 30 years old in 2017, making him one of the older wrestlers to achieve the rank for the first time. Conversely, the oldest active Yokozuna was Hakuho Shō, who continued to compete and win tournaments well into his thirties before retiring at 36.

The age at which a wrestler achieves Yokozuna status often reflects their career trajectory and the time it took them to master the sport's complexities and achieve consistent dominance. Younger Yokozuna often signify a new era of dominance, while those promoted later in their careers might be seen as having earned their place through sheer perseverance and late-blooming brilliance. The ability to maintain the Yokozuna rank is more about sustained performance and physical resilience than a specific age bracket.

Conclusion: The Enduring Allure of Rarity

The question "how many yokozuna at once" doesn't have a simple numerical answer, and that's precisely what makes it so fascinating. The number is fluid, a dynamic reflection of talent, dedication, and the stringent, holistic standards of sumo's highest rank. We've explored the rigorous criteria for promotion, the historical ebb and flow of Yokozuna numbers, the profound impact multiple Yokozuna have on tournament excitement, and the unique significance of periods with fewer or no Yokozuna. The journey to Yokozuna is one of unparalleled challenge, demanding not just physical might but also unwavering spirit and impeccable character.

My personal takeaway from observing sumo over the years is that the rarity of having many Yokozuna is not a flaw but a feature. It is this very scarcity that elevates the rank, making each promotion a momentous occasion and each match involving a Yokozuna a spectacle of the highest order. The cyclical nature of succession ensures that the sport remains vibrant, with new aspirants constantly pushing towards the pinnacle, while the enduring legacy of past Yokozuna continues to inspire. The mystique surrounding the Yokozuna, amplified by their very exclusivity, is a core part of what makes sumo such a compelling and enduring sport.

How Many Yokozuna at Once? Understanding the Rarity and Significance of Sumo's Highest Rank