Japan Sumo Association Demotes Former Yokozuna Terunofuji Following Violence Incident

The Japan Sumo Association (JSA) announced on Thursday, April 9, 2026, that it has issued a disciplinary demotion to Isegahama-oyakata, the former Yokozuna Terunofuji, after he admitted to physically assaulting one of his disciples. The decision follows an extraordinary board meeting held in Tokyo to address the conduct of the 34-year-old stablemaster.

Isegahama-oyakata has been demoted two ranks, moving from the position of Committee Member Status Elder to Elder. In addition to the rank reduction, the JSA has imposed a 10% salary cut for a period of three months. Despite the sanctions, he will remain the head of the Isegahama stable.

Details of the Altercation

The incident occurred in the early hours of February 21, around 3:00 a.m., at a members-only lounge in Tokyo. According to the JSA’s investigation, Isegahama-oyakata was attending a gathering with supporters when he noticed his disciple, Maegashira Hakunofuji, acting inappropriately. Reports indicate that a heavily intoxicated Hakunofuji had touched the thigh of a female acquaintance of one of the supporters.

In response, the stablemaster confronted the wrestler, telling him, “How many times are you going to pull this? You can’t just say you don’t remember because you drank too much. Do you understand?” The confrontation escalated when Isegahama-oyakata struck Hakunofuji once in the left cheek area with his fist, followed by a slap to the face with an open palm. While early reports suggested the use of a sake bottle during the assault, the JSA officially認定 (certified) that the violence was carried out with bare hands.

Hakunofuji, who received a strict warning from JSA Chairman Hakkaku (former Yokozuna Hokutouumi), had previously transferred to the Isegahama stable in the spring of 2024 following the virtual closure of the Miyagino stable—formerly led by Yokozuna Hakuho—due to separate violence issues.

Career Transition and Stable Influence

The disciplinary action comes at a pivotal moment in the career of the former Yokozuna. Terunofuji retired from active competition in January 2025. By June of that same year, he inherited the Isegahama stable from the previous master (former Yokozuna Asahifuji), who reached retirement age.

Isegahama-oyakata now leads the most powerful stable in professional sumo. His stable is currently the largest in the sport, consisting of 32 wrestlers, including seven sekitori (wrestlers in the top two divisions). This significant influence within the association has placed additional scrutiny on the stablemaster’s leadership and conduct.

Born in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia, on November 29, 1991, and a graduate of Tottori Johoku High School, the former Yokozuna’s rapid ascent to stable leadership has been mirrored by the high expectations placed upon him to maintain the sport’s integrity.

Mitigating Factors and Official Response

The JSA noted that the severity of the punishment was influenced by the stablemaster’s decision to self-report the incident. Under the association’s violence prohibition regulations, disciplinary actions can be mitigated or waived if the perpetrator voluntarily reports the case. Isegahama-oyakata reported the matter to the association and participated in hearings conducted by the Compliance Committee in late February.

Following the announcement of his demotion, Isegahama-oyakata issued a formal apology:

“I sincerely apologize for the trouble and concern my actions have caused many people. No matter the reason, violence is never permissible, and I deeply reflect on my actions. I will discipline myself strictly to ensure this never happens again, accept the punishment from the Japan Sumo Association with sincerity, and strive to regain everyone’s trust.”

The timing of the final decision was delayed from the end of March to April because the Compliance Committee required additional time to complete its investigation and submit its recommendations to the board.

Key Takeaways of the Disciplinary Action

• Rank Change: Demoted from Committee Member Status Elder to Elder (2-rank drop).
• Financial Penalty: 10% reduction in remuneration for three months.
• Status: Remains the head of the Isegahama stable.
• Incident Cause: Physical assault of Maegashira Hakunofuji following the wrestler’s inappropriate behavior toward a woman.
• Mitigation: Punishment was reduced due to the stablemaster’s voluntary self-reporting.

The Japan Sumo Association will continue to monitor the environment within the Isegahama stable to prevent further recurrences of violence. The next official update regarding stable management or further compliance reviews is expected during the association’s next scheduled board meeting.

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