The Structure of Professional Sumo
Professional sumo wrestling in Japan is organized under the Japan Sumo Association (Nihon Sumo Kyokai), which oversees all aspects of the sport from training to tournaments.
The Six Divisions
Professional sumo is divided into six divisions, each with its own ranking system:
- Makuuchi (Top Division): The highest division, featuring the most skilled wrestlers. Includes ranks from Yokozuna down to Maegashira.
- Juryo: The second-highest division, serving as a bridge between the lower divisions and Makuuchi.
- Makushita: The third division, where many promising wrestlers develop their skills.
- Sandanme: The fourth division, typically for wrestlers with moderate experience.
- Jonidan: The fifth division, for newer professional wrestlers.
- Jonokuchi: The lowest division, where new wrestlers begin their professional careers.
Ranking System
Within Makuuchi, wrestlers are ranked in the following order (from highest to lowest):
- Yokozuna: Grand Champion - the highest rank, awarded for exceptional performance and character
- Ozeki: Champion - the second-highest rank
- Sekiwake: The third-highest rank
- Komusubi: The fourth-highest rank
- Maegashira: Ranked wrestlers numbered from 1 (highest) to 16 (lowest)
Stables (Heya)
Wrestlers belong to training stables called heya, where they live, train, and learn under the guidance of stablemasters (oyakata). Each stable has its own traditions and training methods.
Tournament Schedule
Six major tournaments (basho) are held each year: three in Tokyo (January, May, September) and one each in Osaka (March), Nagoya (July), and Fukuoka (November). Each tournament lasts 15 days.