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Kaio HiroyukiJapanese professional sumo wrestler of the rank of ozeki
Date of Birth: 24.07.1972
Country:  Japan |
Content:
- Kayō Shōta: A Revered Yokozuna Contender
- Early Career and Rise to Prominence
- Five Emperor's Cups without Yokozuna Promotion
- Resilience and Longevity
- Unmatched Career Accomplishments
- - Most fights fought (2,739)
Kayō Shōta: A Revered Yokozuna Contender
Hiroki Koga, known professionally as Kayō Shōta, is a renowned Japanese sumo wrestler who has held the rank of ōzeki for over two decades.
Early Career and Rise to Prominence
Kayō made his debut in 1988 alongside legendary wrestlers Takanohana, Wakanohana, and Akebono. Initially known as Koga, he progressed more gradually than his contemporaries, not achieving the same level of immediate success. However, by the end of 2003, all three aforementioned wrestlers had retired, leaving Kayō as the sole active ōzeki.
Five Emperor's Cups without Yokozuna Promotion
Throughout his career, Kayō has won the Emperor's Cup five times, a significant achievement. However, he has never been promoted to the highest rank of yokozuna, making him a unique case in sumo history. Despite this, Kayō is highly respected within the sumo community, especially at the Autumn Tournament in his hometown of Fukuoka.
Resilience and Longevity
Kayō's professional career has spanned over 20 years, despite sustaining several injuries. He has repeatedly stated that he would retire if he lost his ōzeki status, but has managed to maintain it through sheer determination. In July 2010, he suffered a severe shoulder injury in a match against Kotoōshū, which cast doubt on his participation in the September Aki basho and the continuation of his career. However, he defended his title in September, albeit with a minimal 8-7 record, and followed it up with an impressive 12-3 performance in November.
Unmatched Career Accomplishments
As of February 2010, Kayō holds several unsurpassed career achievements, including:
- Most fights fought (2,739)
- Most career victories (1,842)- Most tournaments ranked as ōzeki (100)
Preferred Techniques and Notable Achievements
Kayō is known for his powerful style of wrestling, employing grips, pushing, and throws. He is particularly renowned for his "kotenage" (arm-lock throw), which he has performed even when it posed a risk of injury. He was the last (and only in over 25 years) to execute the spectacular "ippondzui" (overarm throw) in makuuchi competition, against Musashimaru in November 2000.
