Sumo has long been known as Japan’s national sport, but in recent years, it has begun to draw talented wrestlers from all around the world. Among them, one of the brightest new faces is Aonishiki Arata, a young rikishi (sumo wrestler) from Ukraine who has been turning heads with his skill, humility, and rapid rise through the professional ranks.
He’s also my favorite sumo wrestler right now.
Who Is Aonishiki Arata?
- Ring Name: Aonishiki Arata (安青錦 新大)
- Real Name: Danylo Yavhusyshyn (Данило Явгусишин)
- Birth Date: March 23, 2004
- Birthplace: Vinnytsia, Ukraine
- Stable (Heya): Ajigawa-beya (安治川部屋)
- Height / Weight: Around 182 cm / 140 kg
- Debut: September 2023 (Aki Basho)
Early Life and How He Discovered Sumo
Aonishiki grew up in Vinnytsia, a city in central Ukraine. Like many children, he began practicing judo when he was around six years old. However, he soon found himself drawn to sumo after seeing the sport’s simplicity and fast-paced intensity. At just seven years old, he joined a local sumo club — a decision that would eventually change his life.
Alongside sumo, Aonishiki also trained in wrestling, a sport where he proved to be a natural talent. By his mid-teens, he was competing internationally, even earning a third-place finish at the World Junior Sumo Championships in 2019.
His first connection with Japan came through international tournaments, where he met Japanese wrestlers and coaches. These experiences inspired him to move to Japan to pursue sumo professionally. He later joined Ajigawa-beya, led by the former sekiwake Aminishiki, who has been guiding his growth ever since.
His Style and Strengths
Aonishiki’s sumo combines speed, balance, and technique, rather than relying purely on size. He often attacks from a low stance, using sharp movements to get inside his opponent’s guard.
Despite being relatively light compared to many top-division rikishi, he compensates with strong grip control and an instinctive ability to shift his opponent’s center of gravity.
Fans and commentators have noted that his wrestling background gives him excellent body awareness and the ability to stay calm in chaotic grappling situations.
Current Rank
- Komusubi (小結) – The fourth-highest rank in sumo, placing Aonishiki among the elite wrestlers in the top division (as of September 2025).
Career Highlights
- Fastest Promotion to Top Division: Achieved promotion to the makuuchi division in just nine tournaments, tying the record for the fastest ascent since the six-basho system began in 1958.
- Special Prizes: Earned four special prizes (三賞) for outstanding performance.
- Kinboshi (Gold Star): Secured his first kinboshi by defeating Yokozuna Hoshoryu in July 2025, setting a record for the fastest kinboshi in the six-basho system.
Personality and Popularity
One reason Aonishiki has become a fan favorite — both in Japan and abroad — is his personality.
He is known for his gentle and humble nature, often thanking fans and reporters with a polite “arigatou gozaimasu.”
Despite the challenges of language and culture, Aonishiki has embraced life in Japan, frequently expressing gratitude for his stablemates, coaches, and supporters.
In interviews, he has mentioned his love for beef tongue (gyutan) and saunas, showing his easygoing and relatable side. His approachable character and quiet determination have earned him many admirers in both Japan and Ukraine.
Challenges and Future Prospects
Transitioning from Ukraine to Japan’s highly disciplined sumo world was no easy task. Aonishiki had to adjust to a new culture, language, and the demanding lifestyle of a sumo stable — but his progress has been remarkable.
Since his debut, he has quickly climbed through the ranks, impressing both coaches and veteran rikishi with his discipline and growth.
Looking ahead, many believe Aonishiki could become the first Ukrainian to consistently compete at the top of the makuuchi division. With his strong foundation, humility, and ever-improving technique, he has the potential to be one of the key figures representing sumo’s global future.
Why Aonishiki Matters
Aonishiki’s journey from Ukraine to Japan embodies the internationalization of sumo.
He represents a new generation of wrestlers who bring diverse backgrounds to this ancient Japanese sport — yet maintain deep respect for its traditions and spirit.
As he continues to rise, Aonishiki is not only chasing victories on the dohyo, but also bridging cultures through the shared language of strength, discipline, and respect.
Final Thoughts
I believe he will be promoted to Ozeki next year, and I have faith that he will one day reach the top rank of Yokozuna.
This young wrestler’s story is just beginning, so everyone, please keep an eye on him.
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