Ichinojō Takashi, Mongolian sumo wrestler

Hailing from the picturesque Arkhangai Province in Mongolia, Ichinojō Takashi, born Altankhuyag Ichinnorov on April 7, 1993, became a prominent figure in the ancient sport of professional sumo. His journey into the Japanese national sport was marked by an exceptionally rare debut and a swift ascent through the ranks, quickly capturing the attention of sumo enthusiasts worldwide. His Japanese name, 逸ノ城 駿, is widely known within the sumo world, reflecting his adopted professional identity.

Ichinojō's entry into professional sumo was groundbreaking. He earned the unique distinction of being the second foreign-born wrestler, and critically, the very first of non-Japanese descent, to debut at an elevated rank within the prestigious third makushita division. This unusual starting position, a testament to his considerable success in amateur sumo, bypassed the lower divisions where most new recruits begin their professional journey. Typically, new recruits start at the very bottom, in divisions like jonokuchi, jonidan, and sandanme, before reaching makushita. His impressive amateur record clearly set him apart, prompting the Japan Sumo Association to grant this special dispensation.

His professional career continued with remarkable momentum. In an astonishing display of skill and power, Ichinojō secured the championship in the second highest division, jūryō, in only his third professional tournament, or basho. This rapid achievement underscored his potential and signaled his imminent rise to the sport's elite.

The momentum carried him into the pinnacle of sumo, the top makuuchi division, for his fifth professional tournament. Far from being overwhelmed, Ichinojō immediately made his presence felt, achieving the runner-up position. This incredible performance propelled him to the rank of sekiwake, one of the coveted "sanyaku" ranks, which are the highest ranks below Yokozuna and Ōzeki. This promotion, achieved in record time, marked the highest rank of his career up to that point, a clear indicator of his exceptional talent and dedication.

Beyond his technical prowess and rapid advancement, Ichinojō was also known for his formidable physical presence. As of September 2020, he stood out as one of the heaviest rikishi (sumo wrestlers) in the top division, a characteristic that often contributed significantly to his powerful and unyielding sumo style.

Frequently Asked Questions about Ichinojō Takashi

Who is Ichinojō Takashi?

Ichinojō Takashi, born Altankhuyag Ichinnorov, is a Mongolian professional sumo wrestler. He is notable for his rapid ascent through the sumo ranks and his unique debut at an elevated division due to his amateur success.

What is significant about Ichinojō's debut in sumo?

He was the first wrestler of non-Japanese descent, and the second foreign-born overall, to debut directly in the third makushita division. This was a rare exception granted because of his outstanding amateur sumo record, as most new wrestlers begin in much lower ranks.

What are Ichinojō's highest achievements mentioned in his early career?

He won the jūryō (second division) championship in only his third professional tournament. Shortly after, in his first tournament in the top makuuchi division, he was the runner-up and was subsequently promoted to the high rank of sekiwake.

From what country does Ichinojō Takashi originate?

He originates from Mongolia, specifically from Arkhangai Province.

What is a "rikishi" in sumo?

A rikishi is the Japanese term for a professional sumo wrestler.