How does a sumo wrestler become yokozuna?
A · Advanced · Officials and tournaments · 1 of 2The top division, makuuchi, ranks yokozuna, then ozeki, sekiwake, komusubi and maegashira. Below are juryo, makushita, sandanme, jonidan and jonokuchi. Promotion to yokozuna needs two tournament wins in a row at ozeki, or an equal record, and the Association's judgement of character. A yokozuna is never demoted, but is expected to retire if results fall away.
How it works
- Makuuchi: up to 42 rikishi.
- Order: yokozuna, ozeki, sekiwake, komusubi, maegashira.
- Sanyaku: ozeki to komusubi group.
- Juryo: second division.
- Lower: four more divisions.
- Yokozuna promotion: two titles in a row.
- Character: also judged.
- Demotion: never for yokozuna.
The glossary has the yokozuna, the Ozeki, Sekiwake, komusubi, the makuuchi, the maegashira, the juryo and the lower divisions.
Tricky cases
Can a yokozuna be demoted?
No.
What if a yokozuna keeps losing?
They are expected to retire.
Must a yokozuna fight?
Yes, unless injured or ill.
Who can enter professional sumo?
Healthy men meeting height, weight and age limits.
Why the rule exists
Since a yokozuna cannot drop, the rank is given only on strong proof.
Where it differs
| Where | What changes | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Yokozuna | No demotion | J p8 |
| Promotion | Two titles | J p8 |
| Entry | Limits | N |
From the rule book
Japan Sumo Association, Sumo (introduction booklet), pages 4, 5 and 8, with the JSA recruitment page. Checked 15 October 2026. Official documents: JSA Sumo booklet and IFS Regulations on Refereeing 2024.