Ōnomatsu Midorinosuke, Japanese sumo wrestler, the 6th Yokozuna (b. 1794)

Ōnomatsu Midorinosuke (Japanese: 阿武松 緑之助, born 1794, died January 20, 1852) was a legendary figure in the annals of Japanese sumo wrestling, renowned for his immense strength and skill. Hailing from Noto Province, an area now part of Ishikawa Prefecture on the Honshu island of Japan, he rose through the ranks to achieve the sport's most prestigious title.

The Sixth Yokozuna: A Legacy of Prestige

Ōnomatsu Midorinosuke holds the distinguished honor of being officially recognized as the 6th Yokozuna in sumo history. The title of Yokozuna represents the pinnacle of sumo wrestling, signifying not just unparalleled strength and technical prowess, but also dignity and integrity (品格, hinkaku). While the formal system for recognizing Yokozuna was solidified much later, in the late 19th century, earlier great wrestlers like Ōnomatsu were posthumously or retroactively granted the title, acknowledging their historical significance and the public's perception of them as grand champions. His ascent to this revered status solidified his place among the sport's early elite, long before the modern Grand Sumo Tournament system was established.

Master and Mentor: Training a Future Yokozuna

Beyond his achievements in the sumo ring, Ōnomatsu Midorinosuke left a profound impact through his mentorship. He notably trained ōzeki Tsurugizan Taniemon, who himself would later ascend to become the 9th Yokozuna. This master-disciple relationship highlights a crucial aspect of sumo's enduring tradition, where knowledge, techniques, and the spirit of sumo are passed down through generations. The success of his protégé underscores Ōnomatsu's capabilities not only as a wrestler but also as a teacher, further cementing his legacy in the sport's lineage of champions.

Origins in Noto Province

Born in Noto Province (能登国, Noto no Kuni), a historical province of Japan, Ōnomatsu's regional origins connect him to a specific part of Japan. This area corresponds to the modern-day Noto Peninsula in Ishikawa Prefecture, located on the coast of the Sea of Japan. The pride in a wrestler's provincial roots was, and remains, a significant aspect of their identity within the sumo world, often influencing their fan base and public image.

Frequently Asked Questions about Ōnomatsu Midorinosuke

Who was Ōnomatsu Midorinosuke?

Ōnomatsu Midorinosuke was an influential Japanese sumo wrestler from Noto Province, living from 1794 to 1852. He is officially recognized as the 6th Yokozuna, the highest rank in professional sumo.

What is the significance of being the "6th Yokozuna"?

Being the 6th Yokozuna places Ōnomatsu among the earliest grand champions of sumo history. While the Yokozuna rank was not formally established until later, these early holders were retrospectively recognized for their exceptional dominance and popular acclaim during their active careers, laying the foundation for the prestigious title.

Who did Ōnomatsu Midorinosuke train?

He famously trained Tsurugizan Taniemon, who himself went on to achieve the rank of ōzeki and later became the 9th Yokozuna, demonstrating Ōnomatsu's influence as a mentor and contributing to sumo's rich lineage of champions.

Where was Noto Province located?

Noto Province (能登国) was a historical province of Japan, and its territory corresponds to the modern-day Noto Peninsula in Ishikawa Prefecture, located on the coast of the Sea of Japan.