Taro Akebono, the Hawaii-born sumo wrestler who made history as the first foreign grand champion in the sport, has passed away at the age of 54 in Tokyo. Akebono’s family confirmed that he died of heart failure while receiving care at a hospital in early April.
Akebono’s rise to becoming Japan’s 64th yokozuna in 1993 marked a turning point in sumo history, as he was the first non-Japanese wrestler to achieve the prestigious title. Standing at 6-foot-8 and weighing 466 pounds, Akebono’s towering presence and unique style of sumo helped to revitalize the sport’s popularity in the 1990s.
Despite facing initial skepticism and challenges due to his foreign nationality, Akebono quickly gained acceptance and respect within the sumo community. He went on to win a total of 11 grand championships, paving the way for a new era where foreign-born wrestlers dominated the top ranks of sumo in Japan.
Akebono’s rivalry with Japanese sumo legends Takanohana and Wakanohana captivated audiences and further fueled the sport’s resurgence in the 1990s. His impact on sumo was so significant that he was even chosen to demonstrate the sumo ring entrance ritual at the 1998 Winter Olympics in Nagano, showcasing his commanding presence to a global audience.
Born Chad George Ha’aheo Rowan in Waimanalo, Hawaii, in 1969, Akebono’s journey to becoming a sumo champion was a remarkable one. Moving to Japan in 1988 with little knowledge of the language or culture, he immersed himself in the rigorous training and discipline of sumo stables, quickly rising through the ranks with his sheer size and strength.
Akebono’s legacy extends beyond his sumo career, as he later became a naturalized Japanese citizen in 1996 and continued to contribute to the sport as a trainer and competitor in other disciplines such as kickboxing and mixed martial arts. He retired from sumo in 2001 due to chronic knee issues, but his impact on the sport and his dedication to his craft will always be remembered.
Survived by his wife, Christine Rowan, and their children, Akebono leaves behind a lasting legacy as a trailblazer in the world of sumo wrestling. His contributions to the sport and his unwavering passion for sumo will continue to inspire future generations of wrestlers around the world.
