Sumo wrestlers stand apart in their own category, requiring a unique blend of strength, agility, and endurance unmatched in any other sport. Their prowess extends beyond mere physical power; they must possess the ability to lift opponents and forcefully propel them out of the ring, while also demonstrating quick reflexes to evade attacks and nimbleness to avoid being thrown themselves. In Japan, the average sumo wrestler towers at around 6 feet in height and weighs over 336 pounds, with some towering as high as 7 feet and tipping the scales at nearly 500 pounds. Today, we'll explore the towering figures of the heaviest sumo wrestlers ever recorded!

Orora Satoshi

One of the most colossal sumo wrestlers in history, Orora Satoshi, entered the world on April 26, 1983, in Zaigrayevo, Buryat ASSR, Soviet Union. From a young age, Orora displayed extraordinary size and stature. His interest with sumo began at the age of eight, when he watched the sport on television, igniting an unrelenting desire to pursue a career in sumo wrestling. At 16, Orora embarked on a journey to St. Petersburg with his family, marking the beginning of his training in sumo. Notably, he became the pioneering Russian professional sumo wrestler, breaking new ground in the sport. Orora made his debut in March 2000, tipping the scales at 190 kilogrammes (419 pounds). However, his weight continued to soar, reaching unprecedented levels by 2017, when he attained the title of the heaviest professional sumo wrestler in history, weighing a staggering 288 kilogrammes (635 pounds). Despite his immense size, Orora maintained a lighthearted attitude towards his weight, joking that while breaking records was not his initial aim, he would certainly secure a lasting place in history. In September 2018, Orora bid farewell to his illustrious career in professional sumo wrestling.

Yamamotoyama Ryuta

Yamamotoyama Ryuta, a retired Japanese sumo wrestler from Saitama Prefecture, got to the renowned top makuuchi division in January 2009. He made his professional debut in January 2007. Having joined the Onoe stable, Yama embarked on his journey in professional sumo wrestling. Notably, in 2007, he achieved a remarkable feat by establishing a new record as the heaviest new recruit, tipping the scales at 233 kilograms. Yama concluded his storied career in professional sumo wrestling in April 2011, leaving a legacy defined by his powerful presence and unprecedented performances on the dohyo.

Konishiki Yasokich

Konishiki Yasokichi, who was also known as "Konishiki" or "The Dump Truck," stands as one of the largest sumo wrestlers in history. Born in Honolulu, Oahu, Hawaii, in 1963, he began professional sumo in Japan in 1982, displaying gargantuan stature of over 600 (287 kg) pounds at his peak. Rising to the rank of Ozeki, the sport's second-highest honour, Konishiki clinched seven championships, becoming the first foreign-born wrestler to achieve this feat. After retiring in 1997, he transitioned into television and entertainment. 

Kenho Mitsuo

Kenho Mitsuo stands as another colossal figure in sumo wrestling history. Standing at 5'11" and weighing 250 kg, Kenho carved out an impressive path in the sport. His remarkable achievements include clinching three consecutive tournament victories from 2011 to 2013. Achieving his highest rank as an active wrestler, Makushita 59, underscores his talents and dedication. Renowned for leveraging his weight advantage skillfully, Kenho displayed exceptional abilities in flipping and throwing opponents during competitions. 

These men have gone through years of training to make a mark in the gruelling world of sumo wrestling. Their achievement is especially remarkable considering the fact that sumo wrestling is one of the oldest combat sports in the world.