Sumo referee
ぎょうじ
Industry & Occupation
Classification
Summary
A profession that judges matches and manages rituals on the sumo dohyo, overseeing the progress of bouts.
Description
The gyōji serves as the official referee in sumo wrestling, operating the gunbai on the dohyo to determine winners and losers. They declare the start and end of bouts, handle mono-ii challenges when there are disputes over outcomes, and make judgments. In addition to matches, they manage prize money, conduct dohyo etiquette and rituals, and assist with event operations during tours.
Future Outlook
While successor shortages due to declining birthrates and fewer stables are a challenge, stable demand is expected from the recovery of sumo popularity and the protection of traditional culture.
Personality Traits
Calm and composed / Strict and fair / Strong sense of responsibility
Work Style
Domestic tours / Events / Long hours / Seasonal fluctuations / Shifts
Career Path
Apprentice gyōji → Jonokuchi gyōji → Sandanme gyōji → Makushita gyōji → Jūryō gyōji → Makuuchi gyōji
Required Skills
Announcement skills / Dohyo etiquette / Gunbai handling / Sumo (competition rules)
Recommended Skills
Etiquette and manners / Foreign language skills / Japanese culture and history knowledge / Teamwork
Aptitudes (Strengths Preferred)
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Attention to Detail & Accuracy | Necessary to accurately discern the details of bouts. |
| Communication Skills | Important for clear vocal signals and coordination with other referees and wrestlers. |
| Problem Solving | Required to resolve disputes like mono-ii quickly and fairly. |
| Stress Tolerance | Necessary to make calm judgments under the attention of spectators. |
| Collaboration & Teamwork | To cooperate with other gyōji and referees for smooth event progression. |
Aptitudes (Weaknesses Acceptable)
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Creativity & Ideation | Judgments are based on traditional rules. |
| Numerical & Quantitative Analysis | Few tasks involve numerical analysis. |
Aliases
- Sumo gyōji
Related Jobs
- Referee
- Tokoyama
- Yobidashi