Churanoumi Becomes First Sumo Wrestler From Okinawa to Reach Sanyaku

Churanoumi became the first sumo wrestler from Okinawa Prefecture to reach sumo wrestling’s sanyaku ranks. He will make his sankyaki debut at Komusubi 1-East at the Kyushu Grand Sumo Tournament, which begins on November 6, 2026.

Churanoumi defeating Ozeki Kotozakura on day 5 of the Aki Basho in September 2026.

Churanoumi had reached his career-high rank of M2w for the March tournament before crashing back down to M6e after a 4-11 record. But he bounced back to M2w with a solid 9-6 record in May and held his own at 7-8 in July. I wrongly predicted a poor September tournament for him at M3w, but he posted a stellar 10-5 record, highlighted by wins against Ozeki Kirishima and Kotozakura, to earn his Komusubi debut in November. Churanoumi’s promotion is not only noteworthy on regional grounds. I quote again from the report:

At 33 years and five months, Churanoumi is the fourth oldest wrestler to reach sanyaku in the post-war era, while his 63 meets fought before rising to the position is the most for those who began their pro careers after graduating universities

Churanoumi made his top division debut in November 2023, so I will venture he will be very happy with his progress at the three-year mark. He will certainly be tested at his new rank at Komusubi, but he should be able to hold his own if he maintains his strong form from May, July (he had a solid 7-8 there), and especially September.

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