Wajima Hiroshi, Japanese sumo wrestler, the 54th Yokozuna

Hiroshi Wajima: The Collegiate Yokozuna of Sumo

Born on January 11, 1948, in Nanao, Ishikawa, and passing away on October 8, 2018, Hiroshi Wajima (Japanese: 輪島大士, Hepburn: Wajima Hiroshi) carved an indelible legacy in the annals of Japanese professional sumo. He ascended to the sport's most coveted and supreme rank, becoming its 54th Yokozuna, a title reserved for only the most dominant and respected sumo wrestlers. Wajima holds a unique distinction that sets him apart in the sport's long history: he remains the sole wrestler with a collegiate background ever to reach this pinnacle.

An Unconventional Path to Sumo's Highest Rank

Unlike the traditional route for most sumo aspirants who join stables directly from junior high or high school, Wajima's journey began in amateur sumo. He attended Nihon University, a prestigious institution in Tokyo renowned for its strong athletic programs, particularly in collegiate sumo. During his time at Nihon University, Wajima honed his technique and physique, accumulating an impressive array of titles, including four collegiate championships. This extensive amateur experience provided him with a sophisticated understanding of sumo techniques and a robust physical foundation, a significant advantage when he entered professional sumo.

Wajima made his professional debut in 1970, a relatively late start at the age of 22. Despite this, his transition and ascent through the ranks were remarkably swift, underscoring his exceptional talent and readiness for the rigors of the professional dohyo (sumo ring). His distinctive fighting style was characterized by a powerful "migi-yotsu" grip—a strong hold on his opponent's mawashi (belt) with his left hand, earning him the famous nickname "Golden Left Hand" (黄金の左, Ōgon no Hidari). This technique, combined with powerful throws and sweeps, often overwhelmed his adversaries.

Dominance and Retirement in Professional Sumo

Throughout his illustrious career, Hiroshi Wajima showcased consistent excellence, accumulating a formidable total of 14 tournament championships or yūshō. A yūshō signifies winning the most bouts in a single Grand Sumo Tournament, making 14 championships a remarkable achievement that places him among the all-time greats in sumo history. His sustained dominance and consistent performance culminated in his promotion to Yokozuna in July 1973, a testament to his exceptional skill and formidable presence in the ring. Wajima retired from active competition in March 1981, concluding a career marked by unparalleled collegiate success and significant professional achievements.

Transition to Coaching and Subsequent Controversies

Following his retirement as an active rikishi (sumo wrestler), Wajima embarked on a common path for distinguished former wrestlers, becoming the head coach of Hanakago stable. This role typically allows retired champions to mentor and guide the next generation of sumo wrestlers, passing on their invaluable knowledge and experience within the Japan Sumo Association. However, his tenure as a stablemaster was marred by significant controversies.

In 1987, Hiroshi Wajima faced severe allegations of selling his "toshiyori kabu" (elder stock), a highly valuable and official share in the Japan Sumo Association that grants a retired wrestler the right to remain involved in sumo as an elder or stablemaster. The sale of elder stock is strictly prohibited under the association's rules and is considered a profound breach of integrity. This scandal led to his highly publicized expulsion from the Japan Sumo Association, effectively forcing him to leave the traditional sumo world entirely.

A New Chapter: Professional Wrestling

After his abrupt and controversial departure from sumo, Wajima embarked on an unexpected new career in professional wrestling. He made his debut in 1986 with All Japan Pro-Wrestling (AJPW), a prominent Japanese professional wrestling promotion. While his professional wrestling career was comparatively brief relative to his extensive sumo career, it allowed him to continue performing in the public spotlight, showcasing his powerful physique and athletic prowess in a different form of combat sports entertainment. He participated in several notable matches, leveraging his fame and unique background to draw audiences.

Legacy of Hiroshi Wajima

Hiroshi Wajima's legacy in sumo is complex but profoundly impactful. He is celebrated not only for his impressive record of 14 yūshō and his powerful "Golden Left Hand" technique but primarily for his groundbreaking achievement as the only Yokozuna with a collegiate background. His story remains a unique chapter in sumo history, illustrating both extraordinary athletic triumphs and the profound challenges and strictures faced by those within and beyond the traditional dohyo.

Frequently Asked Questions About Hiroshi Wajima

Who was Hiroshi Wajima?

Hiroshi Wajima was a Japanese professional sumo wrestler who achieved the sport's highest rank, Yokozuna, becoming the 54th individual to hold this prestigious title. He is particularly renowned for being the only Yokozuna in sumo history to have a collegiate background.

What was unique about Hiroshi Wajima's path to Yokozuna?

Unlike most professional sumo wrestlers who join stables at a young age, Hiroshi Wajima first excelled in amateur sumo at Nihon University. He entered professional sumo relatively later, at age 22, after a distinguished collegiate career, making his rise to Yokozuna exceptionally unique.

How many championships did Hiroshi Wajima win?

During his professional sumo career, Hiroshi Wajima won a total of 14 top-division tournament championships, known as yūshō, a significant achievement that places him among sumo's elite.

Why did Hiroshi Wajima leave the sumo world?

Hiroshi Wajima was controversially expelled from the Japan Sumo Association in 1987 due to allegations of selling his "toshiyori kabu" (elder stock), which is strictly prohibited. This incident forced him to leave his coaching role at Hanakago stable and depart the sumo world entirely.

Did Hiroshi Wajima pursue another career after sumo?

Yes, after leaving the sumo world, Hiroshi Wajima transitioned into professional wrestling, making his debut with All Japan Pro-Wrestling (AJPW) in 1986. He leveraged his sumo fame in this new career, albeit for a shorter period compared to his sumo days.