In recent years, more sumo wrestlers have been competing under their real names, which is helping to popularize even common Japanese names. No. 5 maegashira Yoshinofuji, who earned the Technique Prize at last month's Kyushu Grand Sumo Tournament, had been fighting as Kusano until the previous Autumn tournament.
When No. 5 maegashira Yoshinofuji claimed the Technique Prize at the Kyushu Grand Sumo Tournament in November for his impressive bouts, including a win over yokozuna Onosato, some spectators might have puzzled over his identity. Until the Autumn tournament in September, he had competed under his real name, Kusano. The new shikona, Yoshinofuji, combines three kanji characters and one katakana; the initial 'yoshi' signifies valuing duty and humanity. 'I want to cultivate this name while improving my rank,' Yoshinofuji stated.
Yet fans and the wrestler himself still associate him closely with Kusano, and adjustment has been slow. 'It still doesn’t register,' he admitted. 'There are times when I myself think, which is it again?'
In sumo, ring names carry the weight of tradition, akin to an actor's stage name. Lately, though, more wrestlers in the top makuuchi division opt for their real names. Prominent examples include former ozeki Takayasu and Shodai, as well as favored maegashira Ura. Former komusubi Endo, now the sumo elder Kitajin, stuck with his real name throughout his career until retiring just before the Kyushu event. Despite chances to change upon reaching sanyaku ranks—once even considering the name of ex-ozeki Shimizugawa—Endo's popularity kept him with his original moniker. It's uncommon for a everyday surname like Endo to gain such traction in sumo.
These names gain prestige through wrestlers' efforts and fan support. Yoshinofuji's recent success suggests his new identity may soon eclipse Kusano, establishing itself as a respected one.