1. Overview
Takayasu Akira is a Japanese professional sumo wrestler who has achieved the sport's second-highest rank, ōzeki. Born on February 28, 1990, in Tsuchiura, Ibaraki Prefecture, he made his professional debut in March 2005. He was the first wrestler born in the Heisei era to reach the top Makuuchi division. Takayasu maintained his ōzeki rank for 15 tournaments, a period marked by both strong performances and significant challenges, including multiple injuries and "kadoban" status (at risk of demotion). Throughout his career, he has been a seven-time tournament runner-up and has earned twelve special prizes-six for Fighting Spirit, four for Outstanding Performance, and two for Technique. He has also secured five gold stars by defeating yokozuna. He currently wrestles for Tagonoura stable.
2. Early Life and Sumo Background
Takayasu Akira's journey into the world of professional sumo began with a unique family background and a push from his father, despite his initial reluctance.
2.1. Childhood and Family
Takayasu Akira was born in Tsuchiura, Ibaraki Prefecture, Japan, on February 28, 1990. He comes from a mixed heritage family; his father, Eiji Takayasu, is Japanese from Ibaraki Prefecture, and his mother, Bebelita Bernadas, is Filipino from the island of Bohol. He has an older brother named Hiroyuki. His cousin is Satochi, the former drummer of the Japanese rock band Mucc. Takayasu's childhood friend is Sayaka Akimoto, a former member of the idol group AKB48. His shoe size was 14 in (35 cm) as of February 2018.
As a child, Takayasu was a baseball enthusiast, playing as a catcher on his junior high school team. His childhood nickname was "Maru-chan," due to his resemblance to the baseball player Domingo Martinez. His mother described him as a pampered second son who was never scolded. She would often bring his favorite Filipino dishes, such as Caldereta (a type of beef stew), Pancit Bihon (Filipino stir-fried noodles), and Sinigang, to the sumo stable, even after he joined. His father recalled that Takayasu lacked focus and only wanted to do enjoyable things. In junior high, he struggled academically, and after being told by a tutor that it was "too late" to catch up, his father encouraged him to pursue a path that suited him, even considering a trade. He often wore sandals to school because he couldn't find shoes that fit his large feet, but was still noted for his speed.
2.2. Entry into Sumo
Takayasu's entry into sumo was largely influenced by his father, who noticed his physical resemblance to fellow Ibaraki native and sumo wrestler Kisenosato. His father believed that if Takayasu joined a *yokozuna*'s stable, he might have a chance to become a *sekitori*. Despite Takayasu's initial strong refusal, his father took him to Naruto stable (now Tagonoura stable), where Kisenosato was, without an appointment. Takayasu was initially uninterested in sumo, but upon visiting Naruto stable, the then-stablemaster praised his large hands and feet, which quickly piqued his interest.
Upon joining the stable, Takayasu already possessed an impressive physique, standing at 71 in (180 cm) and weighing 265 lb (120 kg), with feet measuring 13 in (33 cm). This led to high expectations from the outset. However, the rigorous training environment at Naruto stable, where practice often lasted until the afternoon, was a stark contrast to his easygoing childhood. He ran away from the stable multiple times-seven times according to some accounts, and over ten times according to his father. He would cycle six hours from Matsudo, where the stable was located, back to his family home in Tsuchiura. His parents would take him to all-you-can-eat yakiniku before returning him, but he would often try to escape again by pretending to go to the restroom. On one occasion, he even jumped out of the car at a red light. His parents once prostrated themselves before the stablemaster, pleading for the other wrestlers to ease their *kawaigari* (intense training/hazing) on Takayasu. This act made Takayasu realize his own weakness and strengthened his resolve.
A turning point came in 2006 when his father suffered from kidney cancer and had a kidney removed, leading him to close his restaurant business. Takayasu later reflected that his father's desire for him to succeed in sumo deeply resonated with him during this difficult time, making him realize he could not be complacent. The late stablemaster, Naruto, who never scolded Takayasu, would sometimes call him to his room at night to offer him ice cream, a gesture Takayasu now appreciates, believing that Naruto understood him well. Naruto, recognizing Takayasu's talent, personally took him under his wing as an attendant, teaching him sumo techniques. When Takayasu reached the upper ranks of the *sandanme* division, he finally had the opportunity to train with Kisenosato, describing the experience as feeling "every joint in his body creak" from the sheer weight and power of his senior stablemate. This intense training, often exceeding 100 bouts a day, combined with a diet of 7-8 nutritious dishes per meal, strengthened his body and resolve.
3. Sumo Career
Takayasu Akira's sumo career has been a journey of steady ascent, marked by significant milestones, impressive achievements, and persistent battles with injuries and the challenges of maintaining elite rank.
3.1. Debut and Lower Divisions
Takayasu made his professional debut in March 2005. He steadily progressed through the lower divisions, experiencing only a few losing records or "make-koshi" tournaments. His dedication bore fruit in September 2010 when he won the yūshō (championship) in the third-highest Makushita division with a perfect 7-0 record. This championship propelled him into the Jūryō division.
3.2. Juryo and Makuuchi Debut
His promotion to the Jūryō division in November 2010 was a historic moment, as he became one of the first two sekitori (wrestlers in the top two divisions) born in the Heisei era, alongside Masunoyama. Despite reaching the elite ranks, Takayasu chose to continue using his birth name, a decision his father insisted upon to promote the Takayasu family name. In his debut *jūryō* tournament, he nearly secured a second consecutive championship, finishing with an 11-4 record but losing to Toyohibiki in a playoff.
After two more strong performances in *jūryō*, Takayasu was promoted to the top Makuuchi division in July 2011. He expressed his happiness at reaching this long-sought position, attributing his rapid ascent through *jūryō* to his ability to wrestle without hesitation. His debut in *makuuchi* at *maegashira* 11 resulted in a 9-6 winning record. In January 2012, at *maegashira* 3, he became the first Heisei-born wrestler to compete in the final bout of a day, facing *yokozuna* Hakuhō. He reached his then-highest rank of *maegashira* 1 in May 2012, though he recorded a losing score there.
3.3. San'yaku Ranks
Takayasu achieved his best result in the top division up to that point in the January 2013 tournament, finishing as runner-up with a 12-3 record and earning his first Fighting Spirit prize. In March 2013, he secured his first kinboshi (gold star) by defeating *yokozuna* Harumafuji. He earned a second *kinboshi* against Harumafuji in July 2013, a victory that also brought him his first Outstanding Performance prize and his first promotion to the san'yaku ranks as komusubi. This made him the first Heisei-born wrestler to reach *san'yaku*. However, he lasted only one tournament at this rank, falling into a slump before bouncing back with an 11-4 record in July 2014, earning another Fighting Spirit prize.
In November 2014, he defeated two *yokozuna*, Harumafuji and Hakuhō, earning two more *kinboshi* and his second Outstanding Performance prize. This performance led to his second promotion to *komusubi* in January 2015, but he again struggled, finishing with a 6-9 record.
He withdrew from a tournament for the first time in his career in September 2015 due to a left shin muscle strain and left ankle ligament damage, but recovered with two winning records in subsequent tournaments. After a poor performance in March 2016, a 9-6 result in May led to his third promotion to *komusubi*. In the July 2016 Nagoya tournament, he achieved his first winning record at a *san'yaku* rank with eleven wins, defeating *ōzeki* Kotoshōgiku, Goeido, and Terunofuji, and was awarded the Technique prize. In September, he reached sekiwake for the first time and was in contention for the championship with a 10-2 record after twelve days, though he lost his final three bouts. He was still awarded his third Fighting Spirit prize.
3.4. Ozeki Promotion
Takayasu's consistent high-level performances in 2017 fueled speculation about his promotion to *ōzeki*. In January 2017, as *komusubi*, he finished tied for third place with an 11-4 record, earning his fourth Fighting Spirit prize. His wins included victories over *yokozuna* Kakuryū and Hakuhō, as well as three of the four *ōzeki*.
In March 2017, back at *sekiwake*, Takayasu started the tournament with an impressive 10 consecutive wins, a first in his career, putting him in contention for the Emperor's Cup alongside his stablemate and newly promoted *yokozuna* Kisenosato. Although he lost three consecutive bouts from Day 11 to 13, he finished the tournament with a strong 12-3 record, earning his third Outstanding Performance prize.
With 23 wins in the two preceding *san'yaku* tournaments, an 11-win performance in the May 2017 tournament would likely secure his *ōzeki* promotion. Japan Sumo Association (JSA) Chairman Hakkaku urged him to show greater consistency. Takayasu met the target, securing his eleventh win on Day 13 with a victory over Harumafuji, and was awarded his second Technique prize. Immediately after the tournament, Hakkaku announced an extraordinary meeting of the JSA board to consider Takayasu's promotion. On May 31, 2017, Takayasu was officially promoted to *ōzeki*. During his promotion speech, he stated, "I will devote myself to sumo and compete fairly so I can live up to my name as ōzeki." He also expressed his desire to win a championship to further his ambition of reaching *yokozuna*. He decided to continue using his birth name, "Takayasu Akira," as his *shikona*, a decision his father had insisted upon since his *jūryō* promotion to honor their family name.
3.5. Ozeki Career and Challenges
In his first tournament as an *ōzeki* in July 2017, Takayasu started strong with eight wins in his first ten matches, but a four-bout losing streak led to a 9-6 finish. In September, he injured his right thigh during a bout on Day 2 and was forced to withdraw, making him *kadoban* for the next tournament. He managed to save his rank in November 2017 with an 8-4 record but withdrew again on Day 12 due to the same thigh injury.
In January 2018, he achieved his best result as an *ōzeki* to date, finishing as runner-up to surprise winner Tochinoshin with a 12-3 record. He followed this with another 12-3 runner-up performance in March 2018, alongside Kaisei, despite starting with two losses. He injured his left upper arm before the May 2018 tournament and withdrew, missing the entire *basho* and becoming *kadoban* again. He retained his rank in July with a 9-6 record. In November 2018, he was runner-up for the fourth time in his career, finishing 12-3, one win behind Takakeishō.
In July 2019, he injured his left elbow during his Day 8 match with Tamawashi and withdrew after securing a majority of wins. His withdrawal, along with those of Takakeishō, Tochinoshin, and Gōeidō, marked the first time since the beginning of the Shōwa era (1926) that four *ōzeki* were absent from a tournament. The injury forced him to miss the entire September 2019 tournament.
After starting the November 2019 tournament with a 3-4 record, Takayasu made his *dohyō-iri* (ring-entering ceremony) on Day 8 but then suddenly withdrew from his match against Takarafuji due to lower back pain (acute lumbago). This unprecedented withdrawal after the ring-entering ceremony caused a stir among spectators. As a *kadoban* *ōzeki*, his losing record meant he was relegated to *sekiwake* for the next *basho*. His tenure as *ōzeki* lasted a total of 15 tournaments, tying him with Baruto for the 12th shortest *ōzeki* reign in history.
3.6. Return to San'yaku and Continued Activity
In January 2020, Takayasu, now a *sekiwake*, needed 10 wins for an immediate return to *ōzeki*, but he failed to achieve this, finishing 6-9 and being demoted to the *maegashira* ranks. He withdrew from the March 2020 tournament on Day 5 after four consecutive losses due to a left thigh injury.
He returned strong in July 2020 with a 10-5 record, his first double-digit score since March 2019. Another 10-5 performance in September 2020 paved the way for his return to the *san'yaku* ranks. He finished the November 2020 tournament as *komusubi* with a winning 8-7 record. In March 2021, Takayasu was two wins ahead of the field with only one loss entering Day 11, but he lost his final three matches, finishing 10-5 and missing out on a share of the Fighting Spirit prize. He moved up to *sekiwake* in May and produced another 10-5 record. However, he injured his lower back (acute lumbago) in training shortly before the July 2021 tournament and announced his withdrawal, although he returned to compete from Day 3. In September 2021, he withdrew from the tournament with a hip injury after being driven out of the ring by *yokozuna* Terunofuji on Day 11, resulting in a losing record and demotion back to *maegashira*.
Takayasu missed the January 2022 tournament after four individuals at his stable, including his stablemaster, tested positive for COVID-19. He returned in the March 2022 tournament, winning his first 10 bouts and ultimately finishing 12-3, but lost the *yūshō* playoff to new *sekiwake* Wakatakakage. For this effort, he earned his fifth Fighting Spirit prize, his first *sanshō* in almost five years. Soon after the *banzuke* (rankings) for the July 2022 tournament were released, Takayasu and a junior stablemate tested positive for COVID-19, leading to the withdrawal of the entire Tagonoura stable from the tournament. This was the second time in 2022 he had to sit out due to COVID-related rules.
Returning in September 2022, Takayasu was runner-up to Tamawashi with an 11-4 record, failing to beat Tamawashi on the final day to force a playoff. He received his sixth career Fighting Spirit prize for this performance. In the November 2022 Tournament, he entered the final day with a chance to win his first Emperor's Cup outright but was defeated by *maegashira* Abi, setting up a three-way playoff between himself, Abi, and *ōzeki* Takakeishō. Takayasu lost to Abi in the first playoff match after a hard clash at the *tachi-ai*, appearing stunned and needing assistance to stand up. Abi eventually won the playoff, marking Takayasu's third runner-up performance of the year. He received his fourth Outstanding Performance prize for his efforts.
Takayasu was promoted to *sekiwake* for the January 2023 tournament, but withdrew after suffering four defeats in his first five matches due to a shinbone contusion. This led to his demotion to *maegashira* 7 for the March tournament, where he achieved a strong 10-5 record. During the May 2023 tournament, Takayasu withdrew on the first day due to a right thigh injury sustained during morning training, but returned to compete from Day 11. After posting consecutive 10-win results in the last two tournaments of 2023, Takayasu was once again elevated to *san'yaku* with the rank of *komusubi*. At the start of the January 2024 tournament, he withdrew after two days due to back pain, returned on Day 6, but withdrew again on Day 8 due to influenza and a recurrence of back pain. He also contracted an injury shortly before the start of the third day of the May 2024 tournament, forcing him to declare *kyūjō* (absence), despite a consecutive winning streak against Ōnosato and Wakamotoharu. He later returned and defeated *ōzeki* Hōshōryū and Kotozakura. On the opening day of the July 2024 tournament, he lost to *sekiwake* Kirishima and was seen clutching his chest. He withdrew the following day, diagnosed with a partial tear of his left pectoral muscle. He resumed training for the September tournament, remarking that he felt like he was "driving a car that has travelled 186 K mile (300.00 K km)," indicating the toll on his body.
4. Fighting Style
Takayasu Akira is primarily an oshi-sumo specialist, favoring pushing and thrusting techniques (`tsukitsukiJapanese`/`oshioshiJapanese`) over grappling for the opponent's `mawashi`. His most common winning *kimarite* (winning techniques) throughout his career have been `yori-kiri` (force out), `hataki-komi` (slap down), and `oshi-dashi` (push out). He also possesses a strong `left-hand grip` and is adept at `uwatenageuwatenageJapanese` (overarm throw). In his younger days, his quick attacks were effective against slower opponents. As he matured, his style evolved to include more body movements rather than pure power.
His physique is characterized by strong legs and hips, combined with a flexible upper body, allowing him to absorb and deflect opponents' thrusts. While he aimed to become a *yotsu-sumo* wrestler focusing on a left-hand grip before the November 2016 tournament, he abandoned this after a losing record, concluding that his pushing and thrusting style was more suited to him. He is also skilled at slapping down opponents who overcommit to attack.
However, Takayasu's fighting style has also presented challenges. His high hips and often loose armpits make him vulnerable when forced onto the defensive, especially against opponents skilled in quick, deep thrusts, such as Tochiōzan, against whom he has a significantly losing record (8 wins, 20 losses). He also struggles against highly mobile wrestlers. Critics have pointed out a tendency towards passivity, a lack of aggression, and a "jack-of-all-trades" approach that can lead to indecisive sumo, particularly after his demotion from *ōzeki*. His *tachi-ai* (initial charge) has been criticized for lacking consistent power, and he has been observed to be slow in his attacks, often reacting to his opponent rather than initiating. This mental aspect, including a tendency to freeze in crucial moments, has been cited as a reason for his repeated failures to win a championship. While some observers noted a period of increased speed and aggression around 2022, his self-management regarding injuries and his tendency to return to competition prematurely have also drawn criticism.
5. Personal Life
Takayasu Akira's personal life has seen significant developments, including his marriage and the growth of his family.
In October 2019, Takayasu announced his engagement to Konomi Mori, a popular enka singer. They first met in February 2016 at an NHK Welfare Sumo event. They reconnected in May 2017 at Tagonoura stable's *basho* victory party, where Mori was invited to perform alongside her mentor, Takashi Hosokawa. Being the same age, they quickly connected and began dating, with Takayasu proposing in the summer of 2019. They were officially married in July 2020.
The couple welcomed their first child, a daughter, in February 2021. Takayasu attributed his strong performance in the July 2020 tournament to the news of his wife's pregnancy, and his equally strong performance in March 2021 immediately followed his daughter's birth. This led to his popular nickname, "Papayasu." In August 2022, they welcomed their second child, a son. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the couple held their religious wedding ceremony in June 2023 at the Hokkaidō Shrine, followed by a reception in Tokyo later that month attended by over 700 guests, including politicians like Katsuei Hirasawa and Mori's mentor, Takashi Hosokawa.
Outside the ring, Takayasu is known for his calm demeanor, though his former stablemaster advised him to cultivate a more aggressive persona in the ring. He is not particularly adept at fan service, as evidenced by an anecdote from a 2017 celebration where he gave curt answers to questions from singer Takashi Hosokawa, leading to an awkward atmosphere. His wife has also shared that he is typically silent during meals, viewing eating as part of his professional duties.
Takayasu enjoys boiled fish, especially miso-simmered mackerel, though he was a picky eater who disliked vegetables before joining sumo. He is a fan of the manga series One Piece, reportedly owning all volumes as of 2017. He also has a talent for singing, having performed duets with artists like May J. and Kaori Mizumori at NHK Welfare Sumo events. He maintains a close relationship with his family, with his parents often driving him to tournaments in Tokyo.
6. Major Achievements and Awards
Takayasu Akira's career is marked by a series of notable achievements and consistent recognition for his performance and fighting spirit.
6.1. Career Record
As of the conclusion of the January 2025 tournament, Takayasu's career statistics are as follows:
- Total Career Record:** 759 wins, 576 losses, 156 absences (a winning percentage of .569)
- Total Career Tournaments:** 118
- Makuuchi Division Record:** 599 wins, 460 losses, 156 absences (a winning percentage of .566)
- Makuuchi Division Tournaments:** 81
- Ozeki Rank Record:** 113 wins, 57 losses, 55 absences (a winning percentage of .665)
- Ozeki Rank Tournaments:** 15
- San'yaku Rank Record:** 117 wins, 88 losses, 5 absences (a winning percentage of .571)
- San'yaku Rank Tournaments:** 14 (6 at Sekiwake, 8 at Komusubi)
He achieved a championship in the Makushita division once (September 2010). He has been a runner-up in the top Makuuchi division seven times, tying for ninth place historically for most runner-up finishes.
6.2. Special Prizes and Kinboshi
Takayasu has earned a total of 12 special prizes, placing him tied for tenth all-time. These include:
- Fighting Spirit Prize (敢闘賞Kantō-shōJapanese):** 6 times (January 2013, July 2014, September 2016, January 2017, March 2022, September 2022)
- Outstanding Performance Prize (殊勲賞Shukun-shōJapanese):** 4 times (July 2013, November 2014, March 2017, November 2022)
- Technique Prize (技能賞Ginō-shōJapanese):** 2 times (July 2016, May 2017)
He has also earned 5 gold stars for defeating *yokozuna* while ranked as a *maegashira*:
- 1 against Hakuhō
- 3 against Harumafuji
- 1 against Terunofuji
In addition to his professional tournament achievements, Takayasu has won the Japan Grand Sumo Tournament (a non-regular tournament) three times: in 2019, 2020, and 2025.
7. Detailed Career Statistics
As of the conclusion of the January 2025 tournament, Takayasu's career tournament results are as follows:
| Sumo career of Takayasu Akira | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Year | Hatsu Basho (Tokyo) | Haru Basho (Osaka) | Natsu Basho (Tokyo) | Nagoya Basho (Nagoya) | Aki Basho (Tokyo) | Kyushu Basho (Fukuoka) |
| 2005 | Maezumo | East Jonokuchi 29 4-3 | East Jonidan 129 4-3 | East Jonidan 98 4-3 | East Jonidan 73 4-3 | - |
| 2006 | West Jonidan 48 2-5 | West Jonidan 78 3-4 | West Jonidan 98 5-2 | East Jonidan 44 3-4 | West Jonidan 67 4-3 | West Jonidan 41 5-2 |
| 2007 | West Jonidan 5 4-3 | East Sandanme 86 5-2 | East Sandanme 55 5-2 | West Sandanme 27 3-4 | West Sandanme 41 4-3 | East Sandanme 26 5-2 |
| 2008 | East Sandanme 2 3-4 | East Sandanme 11 4-3 | West Makushita 59 4-3 | West Makushita 51 3-4 | East Sandanme 5 4-3 | East Makushita 54 5-2 |
| 2009 | East Makushita 39 2-5 | East Sandanme 3 4-3 | East Makushita 54 4-3 | East Makushita 44 4-3 | West Makushita 36 5-2 | East Makushita 27 4-3 |
| 2010 | West Makushita 22 4-3 | West Makushita 18 5-2 | West Makushita 10 4-3 | East Makushita 6 2-5 | West Makushita 13 7-0 (Y) | East Jūryō 11 11-4 (P) |
| 2011 | East Jūryō 3 9-6 | Tournament Cancelled | East Jūryō 1 8-7 | East Maegashira 11 9-6 | East Maegashira 6 6-9 | West Maegashira 8 9-6 |
| 2012 | West Maegashira 3 6-9 | East Maegashira 7 10-5 | West Maegashira 1 5-10 | East Maegashira 5 6-9 | East Maegashira 9 10-5 | East Maegashira 4 5-10 |
| 2013 | East Maegashira 7 12-3 (F) | East Maegashira 1 5-10 (K) | East Maegashira 5 8-7 | East Maegashira 1 9-6 (O, K) | East Komusubi 1 5-10 | East Maegashira 3 3-12 |
| 2014 | East Maegashira 9 9-6 | East Maegashira 3 5-10 | East Maegashira 8 6-9 | West Maegashira 11 11-4 (F) | East Maegashira 2 7-8 | East Maegashira 3 10-5 (O, K, K) |
| 2015 | East Komusubi 1 6-9 | East Maegashira 3 3-12 | East Maegashira 8 10-5 | East Maegashira 2 6-9 | East Maegashira 3 1-3-11 | East Maegashira 12 9-6 |
| 2016 | East Maegashira 8 11-4 | East Maegashira 1 5-10 | East Maegashira 5 9-6 | East Komusubi 1 11-4 (T) | East Sekiwake 1 10-5 (F) | East Sekiwake 1 7-8 |
| 2017 | East Komusubi 1 11-4 (F) | West Sekiwake 1 12-3 (O) | West Sekiwake 1 11-4 (T) | East Ōzeki 2 9-6 | East Ōzeki 1 1-2-12 (K) | East Ōzeki 1 8-5-2 (K) |
| 2018 | East Ōzeki 1 12-3 (J) | East Ōzeki 1 12-3 (J) | East Ōzeki 1 0-0-15 (K) | East Ōzeki 1 9-6 | East Ōzeki 1 11-4 | East Ōzeki 1 12-3 (J) |
| 2019 | East Ōzeki 1 9-6 | East Ōzeki 1 10-5 | East Ōzeki 1 9-6 | East Ōzeki 1 8-3-4 (K) | East Ōzeki 1 0-0-15 (K) | East Ōzeki 1 3-5-7 (K) |
| 2020 | East Sekiwake 1 6-9 | East Maegashira 1 0-5-10 | Tournament Cancelled | East Maegashira 13 10-5 | East Maegashira 6 10-5 | West Komusubi 1 8-7 |
| 2021 | East Komusubi 1 9-6 | East Komusubi 1 10-5 | East Sekiwake 1 10-5 | East Sekiwake 1 7-6-2 | East Komusubi 1 4-8-3 | East Maegashira 5 6-9 |
| 2022 | East Maegashira 7 0-0-15 | East Maegashira 7 12-3 (P, F) | East Maegashira 1 6-9 | West Maegashira 4 0-0-15 | West Maegashira 4 11-4 (J, F, K) | East Maegashira 1 12-3 (PP, J, O) |
| 2023 | West Sekiwake 2 1-5-9 | West Maegashira 7 10-5 | East Maegashira 2 3-3-9 | East Maegashira 7 7-8 | East Maegashira 7 10-5 | East Maegashira 3 10-5 |
| 2024 | East Komusubi 1 2-4-9 | East Maegashira 8 11-4 (J) | East Maegashira 3 7-3-5 | East Maegashira 3 0-2-13 | East Maegashira 15 10-5 | West Maegashira 9 8-7 |
| 2025 | East Maegashira 6 8-7 | East Maegashira 4 | - | - | - | - |
| Key: W-L-A = Wins-Losses-Absences F = Fighting Spirit Prize O = Outstanding Performance Prize T = Technique Prize P = Playoff(s) Y = Tournament Winner (Yūshō) J = Runner-up (Jun-Yūshō) K = Gold Star D = Demoted from Ōzeki C = Kadoban | ||||||
8. Makuuchi Matchup Record
As of the conclusion of the January 2025 tournament, Takayasu's Makuuchi division matchup record against active and retired wrestlers is as follows:
| Wrestler Name | Wins | Losses | Wrestler Name | Wins | Losses | Wrestler Name | Wins | Losses | Wrestler Name | Wins | Losses | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Aoiyama | 12 | 12 | Asasekiryū | 4 | 0 | Asanoyama | 3(1) | 2(1) | Asahishō | 1 | 0 | |
| Atamifuji | 1 | 3 | Abi | 6 | 8(2) | Aminishiki | 2 | 9 | Amūru | 2 | 0 | |
| Arawashi | 4 | 0 | Aran | 0 | 6 | Ikioi | 13 | 4 | Ishiura | 1 | 0 | |
| Ichinojō | 8 | 6 | Ichiyamamoto | 2 | 2 | Ura | 4 | 3 | Endō | 18 | 9 | |
| Enho | 0 | 1 | Ōshōma | 1 | 0 | Abukatsukazu | 0 | 2 | Abusaki | 5 | 5 | |
| Ōhō | 3 | 0 | Ōsunaarashi | 3 | 0 | Ōnosato | 1 | 0 | Okinoumi | 16 | 5 | |
| Kaisei | 12 | 5 | Gagamaru | 6 | 2 | Kagamiō | 1 | 0 | Kagayaki | 5 | 1 | |
| Kakuryū | 10(1) | 13 | Kitataiki | 8 | 2 | Kimurayama | 1 | 0 | Kyokushūhō | 3 | 2 | |
| Kyokutenhō | 3 | 1 | Kirishima | 7 | 9 | Kimpuzan | 1 | 2 | Gōeidō | 19(1) | 13(1) | |
| Gōnoyama | 2 | 4(1) | Kurokai | 1 | 0 | Kotoekō | 2 | 1 | Kotoshōgiku | 2(1) | 2 | |
| Kotozakura | 4(1) | 4(1) | Kotoshōgiku | 16 | 12 | Kotoshoho | 6 | 2 | Kotoyūki | 3 | 1 | |
| Saga Tsuyoshi | 2 | 1 | Sadanoumi | 8 | 1 | Sadanofuji | 3 | 1 | Satoyama | 1 | 0 | |
| Shimanoumi | 3 | 0 | Jōkōryū | 4 | 3 | Shōdai | 9 | 19 | Shōtenrō | 6 | 3 | |
| Shōnannoumi | 3 | 0 | Shōhōzan | 9 | 6 | Shirokuma | 1 | 0 | Sōkokurai | 4 | 2 | |
| Daiamami | 1 | 0 | Daieishō | 11 | 11 | Daishōhō | 0 | 1 | Daido | 3 | 0 | |
| Takakeishō | 10 | 11 | Takanosho | 3 | 2 | Takanoshō | 3 | 5 | Takamisakari | 1 | 0 | |
| Takarafuji | 23 | 6(1) | Gōfū | 4 | 10 | Tamaasuka | 2 | 0 | Tamawashi | 21 | 18(1) | |
| Chiyofuji | 2 | 3 | Chiyoshōma | 7 | 3 | Chiyotaikai | 12 | 3 | Chiyonokuni | 6 | 1 | |
| Chiyomaru | 2 | 1 | Terutsuyoshi | 2 | 0 | Terunofuji | 13 | 12 | Tenkaihō | 0 | 1 | |
| Tokitenkū | 5 | 4 | Tokushōryū | 4 | 3 | Tosayutaka | 1 | 0 | Tochiōzan | 8 | 20(1) | |
| Tochinoshin | 14(1) | 9 | Tochinohana | 1 | 0 | Tochinowaka | 4 | 6 | Tobizaru | 7 | 2 | |
| Toyonoshima | 5 | 7 | Toyohibiki | 7 | 5 | Nishikigi | 6 | 1 | Nishikifuji | 5 | 2 | |
| Hakuōhō | 0 | 2 | Hakuhō | 2 | 21(1) | Baruto | 2 | 2 | Harumafuji | 5 | 15 | |
| Hidenoumi | 0 | 2 | Hiradoumi | 4 | 2 | Fujiō Higashi | 3 | 1 | Bushōzan | 1 | 0 | |
| Hōshōryū | 9(1) | 2(1) | Hōchizan | 2 | 0 | Hōmashō | 4 | 3 | Hokuseihō | 1 | 0 | |
| Hokutofuji | 16 | 11(1) | Homarefuji | 1 | 1 | Masunoyama | 2 | 1 | Mitakeumi | 24 | 10 | |
| Midōfuji | 4 | 4 | Miyabiyama | 5 | 1 | Myōgiryū | 10 | 15 | Meisei | 5 | 4 | |
| Toyoyama | 1 | 1 | Yoshikaze | 11 | 10 | Ryūden | 6 | 2 | Rōga | 3 | 1 | |
| Wakaarashio | 2 | 3 | Wakatakakage | 4 | 8 | Wakamotoharu | 5 | 2(1) |
- Other: In playoffs (including *tomoe-sen*), Takayasu has one loss each against Wakatakakage and Abi.
- (Parentheses indicate wins or losses by default/forfeiture. Bold indicates active wrestlers as of January 2025 tournament.)
9. Episodes and Evaluation
Takayasu's career is rich with anecdotes and has drawn various evaluations from sumo commentators and observers, highlighting aspects of his personality, performance, and challenges.
Takayasu is generally described as a calm individual, though his former stablemaster, 13th Naruto, advised him to "change his personality" once he stepped into the ring to display more fighting spirit. This aspect of his personality sometimes manifests as a reserved demeanor in public. For instance, at a celebration after the September 2017 tournament, while his stablemate Kisenosato interacted warmly with guests, Takayasu remained expressionless, even when asked about his relationship status by singer Takashi Hosokawa, leading to an awkward silence. His wife has also noted that he is typically silent during meals, as he views eating as a professional duty.
On the *dohyō*, Takayasu has had some notable moments. As of April 2017, he had never lost on his mother's birthday, September 16, a personal superstition. In a rare incident during the November 2019 tournament, he suddenly withdrew from his Day 8 match due to acute lumbago after completing his *dohyō-iri* (ring-entering ceremony), causing a stir among spectators. This withdrawal, being in a *kadoban* tournament, led to his demotion. His rank fluctuations in 2020 were significant, with a 27-rank change over five tournaments, the most among wrestlers who competed in all five *basho* that year.
Takayasu has received sponsorships, including prize money from Tachihi Holdings, a real estate development company. He is known for wearing unique *kesho-mawashi* (ceremonial aprons), including one featuring Charlie Chaplin. He has also been seen entering the arena wearing *somenuki* (dyed cloths) with designs like irises (shōbushōbuJapanese, a pun on "victory" in Japanese) and lilies.
He has participated in various public events, such as a talk show at Boat Race Edogawa in June 2017, where he revealed that watching a boat racer's victory had motivated him during a tough period in his *ōzeki* promotion bid. He is also recognized for his singing talent, performing at NHK Welfare Sumo events.
His family name, "Takayasu," is said to have originated in Yao, Osaka, where Emperor Tenji built Takayasu Castle in 667, and the local clan became the Takayasu氏. His success has even led to a "Takayasu fever" in areas associated with his name, such as the shopping street near Takayasu Station in Osaka and a ramen shop named "Chuka Soba Takayasu" in Kyoto, which gained increased recognition.
Within his stable, Takayasu has continued the tradition of his former stablemaster, Naruto, by treating new apprentices with ice cream. He is known for giving intense training to promising wrestlers, such as Abusaki and Takakeishō, often engaging in numerous practice bouts. He uses a water bag for core training, emphasizing its importance.
His relationship with other wrestlers includes a deep respect for Hakuhō, whom he considered a constant target and motivator throughout his career. He also has a unique relationship with Ōnosato, who is the apprentice of his senior stablemate, making Ōnosato his "nephew-disciple," and they frequently train together.
Commentators have offered various evaluations of Takayasu. While his physical strength and ability to win long bouts have been noted, some, like former *yokozuna* Musashimaru, have criticized his tendency to be passive, waiting for opponents' moves rather than initiating attacks. This "too cautious" approach and a perceived mental weakness in crucial moments have been cited as factors preventing him from securing a championship. His frequent injuries and withdrawals, particularly in recent years, have also raised concerns about his self-management and the sustainability of his career, with some suggesting that his quick returns to the *dohyō* might exacerbate his physical issues. However, his resilience and determination to continue striving for a championship, even after demotion from *ōzeki*, are consistently highlighted as admirable qualities. He has expressed a "grassroots spirit" as a middle school graduate, aiming to outperform university-trained elite sumo wrestlers.
10. External Links
- [http://sumodb.sumogames.de/Rikishi.aspx?shikona=takayasu&heya=-1&shusshin=-1&b=-1&high=-1&hd=-1&entry=-1&intai=-1&sort=1 Takayasu Akira Rikishi Information] (Sumo Reference)
- [https://twitter.com/akira228taka Takayasu Akira's Official Twitter]
- [https://www.facebook.com/100004030924819 Takayasu Akira's Official Facebook]