rikishis

Rikishis are professional sumo wrestlers who compete in the sport of sumo in Japan. The term comes from the Japanese word "rikishi," meaning "sumo wrestler," and it refers to all members of the sumo profession regardless of rank. These athletes train under the guidance of oekesa, or stablemasters, who oversee daily schedules, diet, and discipline required to maintain the demanding lifestyle that sumo demands.

The ranking system for rikishis is divided into nine divisions, with the top division called makuuchi. Within makuuchi, elite rikishis achieve the title of yokozuna, the highest rank, followed by ōzeki, sekiwake, and komusubi. Lower-ranked rikishis compete in divisions such as jūryō, makushita, sandanme, and jonokuchi. Promotion between these divisions is decided by performance in the bi-monthly Banzuke, a tournament ranking list, with the top performers earning advancement while those who lose multiple bouts may face demotion.

Traditionally, rikishis follow a strict regimen that includes a diet centered on chankonabe, a high-calorie stew, alongside rigorous daily practice sessions called shiko and the formal training of various grip and footwork techniques. In addition to physical preparation, rikishis exhibit a ceremonial aspect of the sport, partaking in rituals such as ring-entering rituals, the throwing of salt to purify the dohyo, and the ceremonial hairpin, or keponoid, deployed during matches. Their discipline, strength, and adherence to sumo customs have made rikishis integral to the cultural heritage and popular appeal of the sport.