Recently, the sumo world has mourned the loss of Akenoshi Taro, who is not only tall in stature, but also has left a strong mark on the history of the sport.
According to British media on April 11, Hawaii-born Chad Rowan, Akebo became the first foreign sumo wrestler to win the title of yokozuna (the highest level of sumo wrestling) in Japan. He died of heart failure at the age of 54, a news that left many heartbroken.
Growing up in rural Kurau Mountains near Honolulu, Hawaii, Akebono began his sumo career in the late '80s when he moved to Tokyo.
He is staggeringly tall, reaching 6 feet 8 inches (2.03 meters) and weighs around 500 pounds (225 kilograms) at his peak, making him unrivaled dominance in the sumo ring. His first Yokozuna title in 1993 marked the beginning of his legendary career, a title that paved the way for more than a decade of glory.
Aboreal's accomplishments were not limited to sumo wrestling, he was also a symbol of cultural exchange between the United States and Japan. U.S. Ambassador to Japan Rahm Emmanuel expressed his condolences, emphasizing Aboreal's role in blazing a trail for other foreign sumo wrestlers to succeed in traditional Japanese sports.
In the post, Emmanuel wrote: "I am deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Aurora, a giant in sumo wrestling, a proud Hawaiian, a bridge between the United States and Japan. ”
Over the course of his illustrious career, Aurora has won eleven major tournaments, cementing his status as one of the greatest sumo wrestlers of all time. His retirement in 2001 marked the end of an era, but his legacy continues to inspire players around the world.
A statement released by the family announced that a private Dawn Life Celebration would be held, which would be attended by friends and family. Dawning left behind a wife, daughter, and two sons, and his legacy transcends the boundaries of the movement.