A remarkable achievement unfolded recently as Yavhusishyn Danylo, a 21-year-old sumo wrestler from Ukraine, claimed victory in a prestigious sumo competition in Japan. Known by his ring name Aonishiki, he won the November Grand Sumo Tournament on Sunday, defeating the highly-ranked wrestler Hoshoryu, originally from Mongolia. This win has garnered significant attention, highlighting Aonishiki’s rapid ascent in the demanding sport.
Expressing his elation after the match, Aonishiki stated, “It’s a feeling that words can’t express. It felt like I was just letting my body do its thing, using my own strength.” He credited his success to the disciplined training he undertook under his master’s guidance.
From Ukraine to Sumo Success
Aonishiki’s journey to this point is as inspiring as it is tumultuous. Originally from Ukraine, he began his athletic career with wrestling and judo, popular sports in his home country known for producing Olympic medalists. At the age of seven, he transitioned to sumo after observing athletes training at his judo facility, showcasing a natural talent for the sport. By 15, he achieved a commendable third place at the junior world sumo championships in Japan, where he befriended Arata Yamanaka, a fellow wrestler.
The outbreak of war in Ukraine in 2022 forced Aonishiki and his family to flee, moving to Germany as their homeland was engulfed in conflict. Reflecting on this upheaval, he remarked, “I thought it would be a shame to end my sports career there. I liked sumo, I felt I should try to compete in sumo somehow on the path I’d chosen.”
At 18, Aonishiki made the bold decision to travel alone to Japan, where Yamanaka, now captain of the sumo club at Kansai University, welcomed him into his home. He began training at the university’s sumo club, adopting the ring name Aonishiki, which means “blue,” symbolizing the colors of the Ukrainian flag.
Record-Breaking Rise in Sumo
Despite facing challenges in a new country and language, Aonishiki quickly acclimated, becoming fluent in Japanese and rapidly advancing through the sumo ranks. Weighing only 140 kilograms (approximately 308 pounds), he defied expectations by defeating heavier opponents, showcasing his skill and determination.
After joining the Tokyo-based Ajigawa stable, Aonishiki participated in just 13 tournaments, reaching the rank of Sekiwake, the third-highest position in sumo. This achievement is particularly notable in a sport where promotions and demotions are influenced by performance. Following his recent victory, the national sumo governing body convened an extraordinary meeting to discuss Aonishiki’s potential promotion to the rank of Ozeki, the second-highest title in sumo wrestling.
Despite the prospect of ascending to Ozeki, Aonishiki has set his sights even higher, stating, “There’s one more rank above this, so I want to aim for that,” with aspirations to ultimately achieve the prestigious title of Yokozuna.
Aonishiki’s journey reflects not only personal triumph but also the resilience of athletes facing adversity. His story resonates beyond the sumo ring, embodying hope and determination amidst challenging circumstances.
