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Kimurayama MamoruProfessional sumo wrestler
Date of Birth: 13.07.1981
Country:  Japan |
Content:
- A Sumo Warrior's Journey
- Joining Professional Ranks
- Rise to Sekitori Status
- Challenges and Achievements
- Consistency and Dedication
- Retirement and Legacy
- Style and Techniques
- Passing of a Warrior
A Sumo Warrior's Journey
Early Life and Amateur CareerBorn in Gobo, Wakayama Prefecture, Japan, Kimurayama made history by becoming the first professional sumo wrestler to hail from his prefecture. Despite winning the Toyo University amateur sumo championship, he fell short of the required wins in student tournaments to earn the coveted makunouchi tsukidashi status, which would have allowed him to enter the third professional division.
Joining Professional Ranks
In March 2004, Kimurayama embarked on his professional journey, joining the Kasugano stable, led by his fellow Wakayama native, former sekiwake Tochinowaka. His shikona, or ring name, "Kimurayama," is derived from his own family name, which was also borne by the late Soichiro Kimura, a renowned judge who managed the Kasugano stable in the early 20th century.
Rise to Sekitori Status
In January 2008, Kimurayama achieved the coveted rank of sekitori by advancing to the second division, jūryō. He secured his first tournament win with an impressive 12-3 record, propelling him into the top division, makuuchi, at the rank of maegashira #12.
Challenges and Achievements
Despite a strong start in makuuchi, Kimurayama faced setbacks and narrowly missed achieving the prestigious double-digit win count required for promotion. In 2010, however, he secured two tournament victories in jūryō, setting the stage for his eventual rise to maegashira #7, the highest rank he would reach.
Consistency and Dedication
Kimurayama remained a fixture in the top division, consistently competing in makuuchi tournaments despite injuries and adverse results. He fought with determination and perseverance, earning respect for his relentless spirit.
Retirement and Legacy
After the January 2014 tournament, Kimurayama chose to retire rather than demote to the makunouchi division. He successfully acquired the coveted "toshiyori-kabu," one of 105 licenses granted by the Japan Sumo Association. As Иватомо-оyakata, he now provides guidance and support to young wrestlers at the Kasugano stable.
Style and Techniques
Kimurayama favored pushing and thrusting techniques over belt-wrestling. He relied heavily on the oshi-dashi (push-out) technique to secure victories. His signature move was the side-step henka at the initial charge (tachi'ai), often followed by the hikiotoshi (pull-down) or tsukiotoshi (push-over) techniques. Notably, he competed in 670 consecutive matches without using the yokkiri (force-out) technique, which is commonly used in sumo.
Passing of a Warrior
On July 6, 2024, Kimurayama, a true icon of the sumo world, passed away, leaving behind a legacy of dedication, resilience, and the unwavering spirit of a true warrior.
