Akebono Tarō

Akebono's childhood in Waimanalo, Hawaii played a significant role in shaping his character and preparing him to break cultural barriers in the world of sumo wrestling.

In March 1988, Akebono made his professional debut in sumo after developing the techniques and skills required. He took the name Akebono, meaning 'Dawn'.

Akebono was promoted to makuuchi, the top division in sumo, in September 1990. He made his top division debut in the same tournament as other notable wrestlers like Wakanohana, Takatōriki, and Daishōyama.

In March 1991, Akebono achieved a significant victory by defeating ōzeki Konishiki in the first-ever match between two non-Japanese wrestlers in the top division of sumo. This win showcased his skill and potential in the sport.

In January 1992, Akebono achieved a 13-2 record in the sumo tournament, narrowly missing the top division championship to Takanohana. This success led to his promotion to ōzeki.

In May 1992, Akebono won his first tournament championship in sumo, which led to his elevation to the ozeki rank.

In January 1993, Akebono achieved the prestigious rank of yokozuna after winning his second consecutive championship.

In July 1993, Akebono emerged victorious in the honbasho by defeating Takanohana and Wakanohana in consecutive matches, solidifying his status as a formidable yokozuna.

In May 1994, Akebono suffered a serious knee injury during a sumo tournament, leading to career-saving surgery in Los Angeles after winning his first ten matches.

In 1996, Akebono became a Japanese citizen, further solidifying his connection to Japan and the sumo community. This decision reflected his commitment to the country and its cultural traditions.

Grand champion Akebono, accompanied by a sword-bearer, participates in the annual New Year's dedication at Meiji Shrine in Tokyo, showcasing traditional sumo rituals.

In 1998, Akebono was chosen to represent Japan at the opening ceremony of the 1998 Winter Olympics in Nagano after Takanohana fell ill, showcasing his prominence in the sumo world.

From November 1998 to March 1999, Akebono missed three sumo tournaments due to a herniated disc, but made a successful comeback in May 1999 with an 11-4 record, overcoming retirement calls.

After winning his eleventh top division title in November 2000, Akebono decided to retire from sumo wrestling due to an injury and the daunting struggle to return to fighting fitness. He then became a coach in the Japan Sumo Association and trained wrestlers like Asashōryū.

After sitting out the tournament in January 2001, Akebono officially decided to retire from sumo wrestling rather than face the challenges of returning to fighting fitness.

In November 2003, Akebono left the Sumo Association to join K-1 due to financial problems caused by the failure of his restaurant and other difficulties. This transition allowed him to clear his debts by fighting for K-1.

Akebono made his mixed martial arts debut against UFC pioneer Royce Gracie at K-1 Premium 2004. Despite attempting to use his size advantage, Akebono was forced to submit by Gracie's omoplata/wristlock combination.

Akebono made his official wrestling debut in Japan at AJPW's Wrestle-1 event, facing the Great Muta in the Wrestle-1 Grand Prix Tournament and losing.

Akebono achieved victory over Voodoo-Murders member Giant Bernard in a singles match, showcasing his prowess in the wrestling ring.

Akebono appeared in New Japan Pro-Wrestling alongside Yutaka Yoshie, emerging victorious in a match against Black Strong Machine and Hiro Saito.

Akebono challenged Brock Lesnar for the IWGP Heavyweight Championship but was defeated after Lesnar secured the pinfall, showcasing Akebono's competitive spirit.

Akebono took part in the G1 Climax tournament in August 2007, showcasing his wrestling abilities by defeating notable opponents.

Akebono and Ryota Hama, known as S.M.O.P., won the All Asia Tag Team Championship by defeating Minoru Suzuki and Nosawa Rongai.

S.M.O.P. regained the All Asia Tag Team Championship by defeating Daisuke Sekimoto and Yuji Okabayashi.

Akebono signed a contract with All Japan, officially ending his freelancing days.

Akebono won the 2013 Ōdō Tournament by defeating Go Shiozaki in the finals.

Akebono defeated Suwama to win the Triple Crown Heavyweight Championship for the first time.

Akebono successfully defended his Triple Crown Heavyweight Championship against Takao Omori.

Akebono was forced to pull out of the Champion Carnival tournament due to being hospitalized with poor health.

Akebono officially relinquished the Triple Crown Heavyweight Championship due to his health issues.

Akebono won the World Tag Team Championship for the second time by defeating Jun Akiyama and Takao Omori.

Akebono won All Japan's premier tournament, the Champion Carnival, by defeating Suwama in the finals.

Akebono won the Triple Crown Heavyweight Championship for the second time by defeating Go Shiozaki.

Akebono announced the formation of a new company named Ōdō, with Motoko Baba's support. He became its president.

On 31 December 2015, Akebono fought a rematch against Bob Sapp at Rizin Fighting Federation Grand Prix event. He lost the fight by technical decision due to a cut on his head.

Akebono made his debut for AJPW splinter promotion Wrestle-1, teaming up with Ryota Hama.

Ōdō held its inaugural event at Korakuen Hall, with Akebono, Ryota Hama, and Taiyo Kea winning the main event.

Akebono's final recorded match took place for Dramatic Dream Team, where he was part of a losing team.

Motoko Baba, the widow of All Japan founder Giant Baba, passed away on 14 April 2018.

Akebono, a Hawaii-born sumo wrestler and former grand champion, passed away at the age of 54. He made history as the first foreign-born wrestler to achieve the prestigious title of 'yokozuna' in Japan.

Taro Akebono, the first foreign-born sumo wrestler to achieve the title of grand champion in Japan's national sport, passed away at the age of 54 in Tokyo. Born in Hawaii, he played a significant role in revitalizing the popularity of sumo in the 1990s.