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Last Updated:
2024-09-22 08:20:01

Akebono Tarō

Japanese-American sumo wrestler and professional wrestler
Japanese-American sumo wrestler and professional wrestler

Akebono Tarō, born Chadwick Haheo Rowan, was the first non-Japanese-born wrestler to reach yokozuna. He won eleven tournament championships and later became a successful professional wrestler.

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1969
Akebono's upbringing in Waimanalo, Hawaii

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.

1988-03
Akebono's Professional Debut

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

1990-09
Akebono's makuuchi debut

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.

1991-03
Akebono defeats ōzeki Konishiki

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.

1992-01
Akebono's First Top Division Championship

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.

1992-05
Akebono's First Tournament Championship

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

1993-01
Akebono's Promotion to Yokozuna

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

1993-07
Akebono's Victory in Honbasho

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

1994-05
Akebono's Career-Saving Knee Surgery

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.

1996
Akebono becomes a Japanese citizen

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.

1997-01-08
Akebono performs ring-entrance ritual at Meiji Shrine

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.

1998
Akebono Represents Japan at 1998 Winter Olympics

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.

1999-03
Akebono's Comeback from Herniated Disc

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.

2000-11
Akebono's Retirement from Sumo Wrestling

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.

2001-01
Akebono's Retirement Decision

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.

2003-11
Akebono's Transition to Kickboxing and Mixed Martial Arts

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.

2004
Akebono's MMA debut against Royce Gracie at K-1 Premium 2004

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.

2005-08-04
Akebono's official wrestling debut in Japan

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.

2005-11-19
Akebono defeats Voodoo-Murders member Giant Bernard

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

2006-01-04
Akebono's appearance in New Japan Pro-Wrestling

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

2006-03-19
Akebono faces Brock Lesnar for the IWGP Heavyweight Championship

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

2007-08
Akebono participates in the G1 Climax tournament

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

2009-09-23
Akebono and Ryota Hama win All Asia Tag Team Championship

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

2012-07-01
S.M.O.P. regains All Asia Tag Team Championship

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

2013-09-01
Akebono signs contract with All Japan

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

2013-09-23
Akebono wins 2013 Ōdō Tournament

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

2013-10-27
Akebono wins Triple Crown Heavyweight Championship

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

2014-01-03
Akebono defends Triple Crown Heavyweight Championship against Takao Omori

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

2014-04-22
Akebono forced to pull out of Champion Carnival

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

2014-05-30
Akebono relinquishes Triple Crown Heavyweight Championship

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

2015-03-22
Akebono wins World Tag Team Championship for the second time

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

2015-04-25
Akebono wins All Japan Champion Carnival

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

2015-05-21
Akebono wins Triple Crown Heavyweight Championship for the second time

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

2015-12-04
Formation of Ōdō

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

2015-12-31
Akebono vs. Bob Sapp Rematch at Rizin Fighting Federation

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.

2016-03-13
Akebono's Debut for Wrestle-1

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

2016-04-20
Ōdō's First Event at Korakuen Hall

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

2017-04-11
Akebono's Last Recorded Match

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

2018-04-14
Motoko Baba's Death

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

2021
Death of Akebono, First Foreign-born Yokozuna in Sumo Wrestling

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.

2024-04-10
Akebono, First Foreign-Born Sumo Grand Champion, Dies at 54

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.

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Akebono Tarō
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