Who decides a sumo bout?
I · Intermediate · Officials and tournaments · 3 of 4The gyoji enters with the rikishi, signals the start, watches the bout and points the fan at the winner. Ringside judges may overrule the call or order a rematch after conferring. In IFS sumo a head judge decides after a majority vote of the judges; a bout lasting three minutes is restarted.
How it works
- Gyoji: starts, watches, calls.
- Winner: shown with the fan.
- Judges: may overrule.
- Rematch: torinaoshi.
- Pro judges: five former rikishi.
- IFS panel: head judge, gyoji, four judges.
- IFS decision: majority, head judge.
- Over three minutes: rematch.
The glossary has the gyoji, the shimpan, the torinaoshi, the kachi-nanori, the gyoji's calls and the toshiyori.
Tricky cases
The gyoji calls the wrong winner. Can it change?
Yes, if the judges overrule.
When is the decision final?
At the formal winner's announcement.
Who referees a yokozuna's bout?
A top-ranked gyoji.
Can a bout be replayed?
Yes, a torinaoshi.
Why the rule exists
Judges round the ring see angles the referee cannot, so close bouts are checked.
Where it differs
| Where | What changes | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Pro | Five judges | J p6 |
| IFS | Head judge | I 17 to 19 |
| Long bout | Rematch | I 22 |
From the rule book
Japan Sumo Association, Sumo (introduction booklet), page 6, with International Sumo Federation, Regulations on Refereeing (in force 6 September 2024), Articles 2, 4, 16 to 22 and 29. Checked 15 October 2026. Official documents: JSA Sumo booklet and IFS Regulations on Refereeing 2024.