Ishiura Masakatsu, Japanese sumo wrestler

Ishiura Shikanosuke (Japanese: 石浦 鹿介), whose birth name is Masakatsu Ishiura (石浦 将勝), is a distinguished Japanese professional sumo wrestler hailing from the coastal Tottori Prefecture. Born on January 10, 1990, Ishiura has carved a notable career within the highly disciplined and traditional world of professional sumo, known as Ōzumō.

His journey in professional sumo commenced in January 2013. However, unlike many who start from the very lowest ranks, Ishiura benefited from his strong amateur sumo background. Having excelled at Kindai University, a renowned institution for collegiate sumo, he was granted the status of makushita tsukedashi, allowing him to enter professional sumo at the rank of Makushita 15, significantly higher than the standard entry point of maezumo or jonokuchi. This expedited his ascent through the ranks, demonstrating his exceptional talent and preparation.

A significant milestone in his career was achieved in November 2016 when he made his debut in the prestigious makuuchi division, sumo's top tier. This rapid progression, reaching the pinnacle division in less than four years from his professional debut, highlights his formidable skill and dedication. Within the competitive landscape of makuuchi, Ishiura has showcased his agile and technical sumo style, often employing nimble movements and strategic throws.

His highest rank achieved to date within the makuuchi division has been maegashira 5. The maegashira ranks are just below the elite "sanyaku" ranks of komusubi, sekiwake, ōzeki, and yokozuna, signifying a wrestler who is among the sport's best. A testament to his fighting spirit and compelling performances, Ishiura has been awarded one special prize, specifically the Kantō-shō, or Fighting Spirit Prize. This award, one of the three sanshō (special prizes) given at the end of a tournament (the others being Outstanding Performance and Technique), recognizes wrestlers who display exceptional tenacity and achieve remarkable results.

Ishiura trains and competes for Miyagino stable (Miyagino-beya), one of the prominent training stables in sumo. This stable is particularly notable as its current head, or oyakata, is the legendary former Yokozuna Hakuho Sho, widely regarded as one of the greatest sumo wrestlers of all time. Training under such an illustrious figure provides Ishiura with unparalleled mentorship and a highly competitive environment, contributing to his development as a professional athlete.

Frequently Asked Questions About Ishiura Shikanosuke

When did Ishiura Shikanosuke make his professional sumo debut?
He made his professional sumo debut in January 2013.
What is Ishiura Shikanosuke's birth name?
His birth name is Masakatsu Ishiura (石浦 将勝).
What is the highest rank Ishiura Shikanosuke has achieved in sumo?
His highest rank has been Maegashira 5 in the top makuuchi division.
How many special prizes has Ishiura Shikanosuke received?
He has received one special prize, specifically the Fighting Spirit Prize (Kantō-shō).
Which sumo stable does Ishiura Shikanosuke belong to?
He wrestles for Miyagino stable, currently headed by the former Yokozuna Hakuho Sho.
Did Ishiura Shikanosuke have an amateur sumo background?
Yes, he had a distinguished amateur sumo career at Kindai University, which allowed him to enter professional sumo at a higher rank (makushita tsukedashi).