Rikishi
りきし
Industry & Occupation
Classification
Summary
Competitor who competes in strength and technique on the dohyo in sumo, Japan's traditional martial art and combat sport.
Description
Rikishi are athletes in sumo, Japan's traditional sport, who belong to a sumo stable (stable system) and develop their skills and physical strength through rigorous training and communal dormitory life. In bouts, starting from the tachiai clash, they use a variety of techniques like pushing, throwing, and twisting to force the opponent out of the dohyo or down to the ground for victory. They strive for ranking promotions and participation in official tournaments through daily diet management, weight control, and injury prevention. After retirement, they often become elders or stablemasters, guiding the next generation and participating in sumo association operations.
Future Outlook
While maintaining enduring popularity as part of Japan's traditional culture, openings are limited and competition is fierce. After retirement, many paths involve becoming stablemasters to guide successors or manage association operations, with new developments expected from its spread overseas.
Personality Traits
Discipline-oriented / Has endurance / Has fighting spirit
Work Style
Dormitory life / Nationwide tours / On-site resident / Sumo stable affiliation / Training
Career Path
New recruit → Juryo rikishi → Makuuchi rikishi → San'yaku (Sekiwake · Komusubi) → Ozeki → Yokozuna → Elder (stablemaster)
Required Skills
Pushing and thrusting / Shiko / Throwing techniques / Ukemi / Weight management
Recommended Skills
Flexibility training / Mental control / Nutrition management / Safety management
Aptitudes (Strengths Preferred)
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Learning Agility & Knowledge Acquisition | Need to continuously acquire techniques and tactics |
| Physical Stamina & Endurance | Superior physical stamina is required to endure rigorous training and bouts |
| Stress Tolerance | Ranking depends on wins and losses, exposing one to immense pressure |
Aptitudes (Weaknesses Acceptable)
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Creativity & Ideation | Few opportunities for original ideas since forms based on tradition are emphasized |
| Numerical & Quantitative Analysis | No mathematical calculations are needed during matches |
Aliases
- Sumo rikishi
- Sumo wrestler
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- Boxer
- Fighter
- Pro wrestler