Ukrainian sumo wrestler Danylo Yavgusishyn, known as Aonisiki, has made history by becoming the first Ukrainian to win an elite professional sumo tournament in Japan. The 21-year-old athlete, who arrived in Japan as a refugee, has won the prestigious Emperor’s Cup. He is the first European to do so in nearly eight years.
Aonisiki, whose name symbolizes “blue” – one of the colors of the Ukrainian flag – has completed the 15-day tournament in Fukuoka. His record is 12 wins and three losses. In the final match, he defeated the grand champion Yokozuna Hoshoryu.
This puts him close to the second most crucial rank of Ozeki, which could be the fastest promotion in sumo history.
At the award ceremony, Danylo was asked about his feelings and noted that this was just the beginning of his journey.
The Ukrainian became the second representative of his country in the highest division of sumo. Thanks to his skill and rare techniques, he quickly won fans.
Experts predict that Aonisiki will become the first European to reach the highest rank of sumo, Yokozuna.
