The sumo wrestler who became a yokozuna-slayer after World War II
In short: In the high-stakes world of professional sumo, defeating a yokozuna is a rare feat. But Fujinokawa Seigō has done it four times in a row, a feat unmatched by any wrestler since the end of World War II. This rising star is rewriting the history books from the Isenoumi stable.
Born Seigō Saitō in Edogawa, Tokyo, on February 22, 2005, the wrestler's path to stardom was shaped by his lineage. The son of former maegashira wrestler Ōikari, he entered professional sumo in January 2023. He initially competed under the shikona Wakaikari, but upon his promotion to the top makuuchi division in July 2025, he adopted the traditional Isenoumi stable name, Fujinokawa. Before turning professional, he served as the sumo club captain at Saitama Sakae High School. Although he received several university offers, he chose to join the Isenoumi stable early following advice from the tenth generation Koyama.
Fujinokawa's rise has been marked by remarkable consistency and an uncanny ability to upset the sport's highest-ranking wrestlers. By July 2026, he achieved a historic milestone by tying the record for the most consecutive wins against a yokozuna, securing four straight victories. This feat had not been seen in the sport since Musashiyama's consecutive wins over yokozuna Miyagiyama during the January 1931 tournament.
His dominance is underscored by his performance against the era's elite. During the July 2026 tournament, he defeated both Yokozuna Ōnosato and Yokozuna Hōshōryū, maintaining a perfect record against them. His technical prowess has been recognized through multiple special prizes, including the Kanto-sho (Fighting Spirit Prize) and awards for Technique and Outstanding Performance. As he continues to climb the ranks, his career trajectory suggests he is one of the most significant talents in modern sumo. His exceptional skill was further highlighted during the September 2026 tournament when he defeated every wrestler ranked as ōzeki. This impressive run earned him an unconditional Fighting Spirit award.
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- Summary by Intellect · source: Fujinokawa Seigō
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