Ukrainian Refugee Reaches Historic Heights in Sumo Wrestling
TOKYO, JAPAN – Just 13 tournaments into his professional career, Ukrainian sumo wrestler Yavhusishyn Danylo has achieved a remarkable feat, reaching the rank of Sekiwake – the third-highest in the sport – and sparking discussion about a potential promotion to Ozeki. His rapid ascent comes as he rebuilds his life in Japan after fleeing the war in Ukraine.
Danylo’s story is one of resilience and determination. Arriving in Japan at 18 years old, he found refuge and training opportunities through a friend, Yamanaka, then captain of the sumo club at Kansai University. Yamanaka housed Danylo with his family and arranged for him to train with the university club, launching a career that has quickly captivated the sumo world.
Competing under the ring name “Aonishiki” – translating to “blue,” a color of the Ukrainian flag – Danylo quickly mastered the Japanese language and climbed the ranks. Despite being lighter than many of his opponents at 140 kilograms (308 pounds), he consistently defeated fellow university wrestlers.
He later joined the Tokyo-based Ajigawa stable to train and compete professionally.his recent win on Sunday prompted an exceptional meeting of the national sumo governing body to consider his promotion to Ozeki, according to NHK.
However,Danylo has set his sights even higher. “There’s one more rank above this, so I want to aim for that,” he stated, referring to the ultimate goal of Yokozuna, sumo’s highest title. His journey represents not only a personal triumph but also a powerful symbol of hope and perseverance amidst ongoing global conflict.
