A rikishi (力士) is a professional sumo wrestler. The term literally translates from Japanese as "powerful man" or "man of strength." These athletes are dedicated to the ancient Japanese martial art of sumo and undergo rigorous training and adhere to a strict lifestyle dictated by the sport's traditions.
Definition and Role
A rikishi is distinguished from an amateur sumo practitioner by their enrollment in the Japan Sumo Association and their participation in professional sumo tournaments (honbasho). They are the central figures of sumo, performing the ritualistic and competitive aspects of the sport. Their lives are highly structured, often beginning at a young age, and are governed by the rules and customs of their sumo stable (heya) and the broader sumo world.
Etymology
The word "rikishi" is composed of two kanji characters:
- 力 (riki): meaning "power," "strength," or "force."
- 士 (shi): meaning "gentleman," "samurai," "warrior," or "man." Thus, "rikishi" signifies a person who possesses great strength or power, particularly in a martial or athletic context. While often translated simply as "sumo wrestler," it carries a more respectful and traditional connotation than a mere generic term.
Lifestyle and Training
Rikishi live communally in sumo stables (heya) under the guidance of a stablemaster (oyakata), who is a retired rikishi himself. Their daily routine is highly disciplined, typically involving:
- Early Morning Training (Asageiko): Beginning before dawn, this involves intense physical exercises, sparring (mokuso), and fundamental sumo techniques.
- Communal Meals: Rikishi consume large quantities of food, particularly chanko-nabe, a high-protein stew, to gain and maintain the substantial body mass necessary for sumo.
- Chores and Hierarchy: Junior rikishi are responsible for stable chores and serving their senior counterparts, reflecting a strict hierarchical structure within the heya.
- Strict Regulations: They adhere to strict rules regarding appearance (e.g., traditional topknot or chonmage), dress (e.g., yukata or kimono in public), and conduct.
Hierarchy and Status
The world of rikishi is highly stratified. All professional sumo wrestlers are ranked on the banzuke, a list published prior to each tournament. Ranks are divided into several divisions, with the top two—makuuchi and juryo—considered the elite professional ranks (sekitori). Rikishi in these divisions receive salaries, more privileges, and higher social standing. Lower-ranked rikishi (deshi) receive only allowances and must perform various duties for their stable. The ultimate goal for a rikishi is to reach the highest rank of yokozuna, an honor bestowed upon very few.
Physical Characteristics
Rikishi are famously large, with many weighing over 150 kg (330 lbs) and some exceeding 200 kg (440 lbs). This massive physique is crucial for generating the force and inertia required to push, pull, and throw opponents in the sumo ring (dohyo). Despite their size, they possess remarkable agility, balance, and strength, developed through years of specialized training. While weight is important, muscle mass, technique, and mental fortitude are equally critical for success.