Can Aonishiki Become Sumo's First European-Born Yokozuna? (2026 update)

Aonishiki’s rise through professional sumo has been nothing short of historic. In less than two years, the 21-year-old Ukrainian has gone from making his debut to competing among the sport’s elite. Now, as an ozeki, he has the opportunity to go where no European-born wrestler has ever gone before. In this video, we look at the rise of Aonishiki, the European wrestlers who came close before him — Kotoōshū, Baruto and Tochinoshin — and what it will take to possibly reach the rank of Yokozuna. CHAPTERS: 0:15 - Who is Aonishiki? 2:22 - European wrestlers who came close 6:17 - Why Aonishiki is doing well 8:25 - Aonishiki's biggest obstacles to reaching yokozuna 🔗 More Sumo Analysis: • Sumo Spiffy’s November 2025 breakdown of Aonishiki’s fights → https://youtu.be/mxXaAfenbRs • My recap of what happened in 2025 → https://youtu.be/43obbP7RfmM • Visit my website → https://www.sumojojo.com 🎵 Music: "Violin Huasteco" by Jimena Contreras 🎵 Music: "Spatial Entaglement" by The Grey Room + Density & Time 🎵 Music: "Sizzr" by Schwartzy #sumowrestling #aonishiki #sumo