Hiyori Kon: The Sumo Sisterhood
How do you see yourself fitting into this deeply rooted Japanese traditional sport as a female wrestler, and what changes do you think your presence might bring to the sport?
In amateur sumo, when you step into the ring, you learn to respect each other as a human being, regardless of whether the opponent is male or female, young or old, strong or weak. I love sumo as a modern sport, and I believe it is my mission to spread it around the world.
What inspired you to become a sumo wrestler, and what challenges did you face as a woman in this traditionally male-dominated sport?
I was born and raised in Ajigasawa Town, Aomori Prefecture, where sumo wrestling is very popular. I started sumo naturally. Since amateur sumo exists as a modern sport, men and women enjoy sumo equally.
How have you trained to prepare for the physical demands of sumo wrestling, and what mental and physical techniques do you use to stay focused during competition?
In sumo, we value very basic training. Among them, the shiko is very important, and we step on it 200 times every day. When you step on the shiko, remove evil thoughts and have a dialogue with your body. Always think “how can I step more powerfully and heavily” and step on the shiko. It’s a very tough practice both physically and mentally.
As one of the first prominent female sumo wrestlers in the world, you have the potential to inspire and empower a whole generation of young women who might not have previously considered a career in sports. What message do you hope to send to these young women, and what kind of legacy do you hope to leave behind?
In sumo, if you fight thinking that you will lose to your opponent from the beginning, even if you can win, you will not win. In the end, the only person you can rely on when you step into the ring is yourself and the effort you’ve put in. If the effort is real, you can make your own way.
Tell me about the first time you beat a boy in sumo wrestling. What did it feel like? Can you remember back to that time?
At that time, I had no concept of gender as male or female. I simply fought with all my might as an opponent to defeat.
How has your life been since the Netflix documentary ‘Little Miss Sumo’?
My life has changed quite a bit. Attention to sumo has increased both in Japan and around the world. I think it would be great if more people came to like sumo.
What’s next for you? Are you training for another competition?
I aim to be number one in the world. In order to do that, we must first return to being number one in Japan.
Follow Hiyori Kon on Instagram here.
