Ukrainian sumo wrestler Ansekin won the July tournament in Nagoya on Monday [1].
The victory marks a significant career milestone for the 22-year-old [1], as it secures his return to the prestigious Ozeki rank. Achieving 10 or more wins in a tournament is the threshold required for a wrestler in his position to regain that rank [1].
Ansekin said at a press conference on Tuesday following the conclusion of the event. This victory represents his third tournament win in the last three tournaments [1]. He said that his ambition for the event exceeded the minimum requirement for promotion.
"Before the tournament, I spoke with my master and decided to strive for the championship rather than just 10 wins," Ansekin said [1].
He said he was satisfied with the outcome and his return to the higher rank. He credited his success to the guidance of his stablemaster and said that he intends to continue following that direction to reach the highest possible rank in the sport [1].
The wrestler's ascent highlights a growing trend of international athletes succeeding in the traditional Japanese sport. By securing this third title, Ansekin has solidified his position as a top contender in the professional circuit, a feat rarely achieved by wrestlers of his age and origin [1].
His performance in the Nagoya basho ensures that he will enter the next tournament with one of the highest rankings in the sport. The victory concludes a period of intense competition where Ansekin focused on dominating the ring to ensure his promotion was undisputed [1].
“"I decided to strive for the championship rather than just 10 wins."”
Ansekin's rapid ascent and repeated championships underscore the increasing globalization of professional sumo. His return to the Ozeki rank at age 22 places him in an elite tier of athletes, suggesting a trajectory that could lead to the top rank of Yokozuna if he maintains this level of consistency.
