Shōhōzan Yūya, Japanese sumo wrestler

Shōhōzan Yūya: A Resilient Force in Professional Sumo

Shōhōzan Yūya (Japanese: 松鳳山 裕也), born Yūya Matsutani (松谷 裕也) on February 9, 1984, is a distinguished Japanese professional sumo wrestler hailing from Chikujō, Fukuoka Prefecture. Known for his aggressive fighting style and tenacity within the *dohyō* (sumo ring), he has carved out a notable and enduring career in the challenging world of professional sumo.

Career Progression and Milestones

Shōhōzan embarked on his professional sumo journey in March 2006, beginning his ascent through the various divisions of the Japan Sumo Association. His dedication and skill were evident as he steadily climbed the ranks, ultimately achieving promotion to the prestigious top *makuuchi* division in November 2011. Reaching the *makuuchi* division represents the pinnacle of a sumo wrestler's career, as it comprises the sport's elite competitors, and it is a significant milestone that signifies a wrestler's establishment among the highest echelons of professional sumo.

Distinguished Achievements and Accolades

Throughout his career, Shōhōzan Yūya has accumulated a commendable array of achievements, reflecting his competitive spirit and consistent performance:

• Fighting Spirit Prizes: He has been awarded the *Kantō-shō*, or Fighting Spirit Prize, on three separate occasions. This special prize, one of the three *sanshō* (special prizes) awarded at the end of a *honbasho* (tournament), recognizes a wrestler who has displayed exceptional vigor, determination, and an unwavering fighting spirit, often exceeding expectations for their rank.
• Tournament Runner-Up: Shōhōzan has demonstrated his competitive prowess by finishing as runner-up in one top-division tournament, narrowly missing a championship title and underscoring his capability to challenge for the top honors.
• Kinboshi (Gold Stars): A particular highlight of his career includes earning five *kinboshi*, or 'gold stars,' for defeating reigning *yokozuna* (grand champions) during regular *honbasho* tournaments. These highly coveted accolades are awarded exclusively to *maegashira* (wrestlers not ranked in *sanyaku*) who achieve a victory over a *yokozuna*, signifying a major upset and a testament to the winner's strength, strategy, and ability to perform under pressure. Shōhōzan notably secured three of these *kinboshi* against the formidable Harumafuji and an additional two against Kakuryū, highlighting his consistent ability to challenge and overcome the sport's highest-ranked competitors.

Reaching Komusubi Rank

Shōhōzan Yūya has consistently proven his mettle by reaching the *komusubi* rank on five separate occasions, first achieving this esteemed position in 2013. *Komusubi* is the lowest of the *sanyaku* ranks, which are considered sumo's equivalent of an "officer class," sitting just below *sekiwake* and *ōzeki*, and significantly above the *maegashira* ranks. Achieving and maintaining a *sanyaku* rank, even *komusubi*, is a strong indicator of a wrestler's sustained performance at an elite level within the demanding professional sumo hierarchy, showcasing consistent victories against top-ranked opponents.

Frequently Asked Questions About Shōhōzan Yūya

What is Shōhōzan Yūya's birth name?

Shōhōzan Yūya was born Yūya Matsutani (松谷 裕也).

When did Shōhōzan Yūya make his professional sumo debut?

He made his professional debut in March 2006.

When did Shōhōzan Yūya reach the top *makuuchi* division?

He reached the top *makuuchi* division in November 2011.

How many *kinboshi* has Shōhōzan Yūya earned, and against whom?

Shōhōzan Yūya has earned five *kinboshi* (gold stars) in his career: three against *yokozuna* Harumafuji and two against *yokozuna* Kakuryū.

What is the highest rank Shōhōzan Yūya has achieved in sumo?

His highest rank achieved is *komusubi*, which he reached on five separate occasions, first in 2013.

What is a *kinboshi* in sumo?

A *kinboshi*, or 'gold star,' is a special achievement awarded to a *maegashira* (a wrestler not ranked in *sanyaku*) who defeats a *yokozuna* (grand champion) during a regular *honbasho* (tournament). It is a highly respected and rare feat in sumo.

What does the 'Fighting Spirit Prize' (*Kantō-shō*) mean in sumo?

The Fighting Spirit Prize (*Kantō-shō*) is one of the three special prizes (*sanshō*) awarded at the end of a *honbasho*. It recognizes a wrestler who has shown exceptional vigor, determination, and fighting spirit throughout the tournament, often exceeding expectations or overcoming significant challenges.