Ukrainian wrestler Aonishiki claimed the first elite-level sumo championship for his country. He defeated top-ranked Hoshoryu in the deciding match of the Kyushu tournament in western Japan on Sunday.
Aonishiki, born Danilo Yavhushyshyn, left Ukraine more than three and a half years ago, shortly after Russia invaded. He adopted the ring name Aonishiki Arata and, at just 21, rose rapidly through the ranks. His achievement marks a milestone, as non-Japanese wrestlers have historically excelled in Japan, including Mongolians and Hawaiians.
Rising Star in Japan’s National Sport
Hoshoryu, born in Mongolia, ranks among the top wrestlers in Japan, alongside Japan-born Onosato. Despite fierce competition, Aonishiki outperformed them, demonstrating skill and determination uncommon for his age and experience. He credited his success to years of training and dedication, quickly adapting to the rigorous demands of professional sumo.
Aonishiki explained that his journey began after forming a friendship with a Japanese wrestler at a tournament in 2019. That connection inspired him to move to Japan and pursue sumo seriously, ultimately leading to this historic victory.
Ukraine’s Strong Wrestling Tradition
Ukraine has long excelled in Olympic wrestling, producing champions in Greco-Roman and freestyle disciplines. Its most recent gold-medal winner, Zhan Beleniuk, triumphed at the Tokyo Games, held in 2021 after pandemic delays.
Aonishiki’s rise highlights Ukraine’s wrestling legacy extending into professional sumo, showing that talent from his country can compete at the highest international levels. His championship win underscores both personal perseverance and the nation’s enduring athletic tradition.
