In a remarkable ascent within Japan’s revered sumo wrestling tradition, 21-year-old Ukrainian-born wrestler Aonishiki Arata has been promoted to the prestigious ozeki rank, just one step below the ultimate title of yokozuna. The Japan Sumo Association announced his elevation during an elaborate ceremony on Wednesday, marking a significant milestone in his burgeoning career. Born Danilo Yavhushyshyn in Vinnytsia, Ukraine, Aonishiki moved to Japan following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine over three years ago, a decision influenced by his earlier friendship with a Japanese wrestler. His rapid rise to ozeki, achieved in just 14 tournaments, is the fastest since the current tournament system was established in 1958. Aonishiki’s promotion was cemented after his victory in a high-profile tournament in western Japan, where he triumphed over Mongolian-born yokozuna Hoshoryu in the decisive match. Despite his relatively smaller stature for a sumo wrestler—weighing between 125 to 135 kilograms—Aonishiki’s success is attributed to his low body position and impressive strength, including a bench press of 210 kilograms. Fluent in Japanese, which he learned after arriving in the country, Aonishiki has endeared himself to the Japanese public. He credits his parents, now living safely in Germany, for supporting his passion, even when he struggled academically. With his eyes set on the yokozuna rank, Aonishiki continues to inspire as a symbol of resilience and determination in the world of sumo.