Sumo 2025: Former Komusubi Endo Retires

Khoshnaw Rahmani, Jadetimes Staff

K. Rahmani is a Jadetimes news reporter covering sport.

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Image Source: Thomas Peter

The sumo world bids farewell to one of its most popular and technically gifted wrestlers. Endō Shōta, the former Komusubi, has officially announced his retirement in 2025 after more than a decade in professional competition. Known simply as Endo to fans, he was celebrated not only for his skill and fighting spirit but also for his charisma, which made him one of the most recognizable faces in modern sumo.

Endo’s Career Highlights

• Debut: Entered professional sumo in March 2013 after a decorated amateur career at Nihon University.

• Top Division: Reached the makuuchi division in September 2013, quickly becoming a fan favorite.

• Highest Rank: Achieved the rank of Komusubi in May 2018.

• Special Prizes: Collected multiple awards, including Technique Prizes (4), Outstanding Performance (1), and Fighting Spirit (1).

• Gold Stars: Earned seven kinboshi (gold stars) by defeating yokozuna, including victories over Hakuhō, Kakuryū, and Kisenosato.

Endo’s combination of technical mastery, graceful yotsu-zumo (grappling style), and calm demeanor made him a role model for younger wrestlers and a fan favorite across Japan.

Reasons for Retirement

Endo’s decision comes after recurring injuries and a series of absences in recent tournaments. By 2025, he had slipped down the rankings and was unable to maintain the consistency required at the top level. His retirement reflects both the physical demands of sumo and the natural cycle of generational change within the sport.

Legacy and Impact

• Fan Appeal: Endo’s good looks and approachable personality helped broaden sumo’s appeal to younger audiences and women, often filling arenas with enthusiastic supporters.

• Technical Influence: His mastery of grips and throws will continue to inspire rikishi in training stables.

• Cultural Symbol: Endo represented the balance of tradition and modernity in sumo, embodying discipline while also becoming a media figure.

While Endo steps away from active competition, speculation surrounds his next chapter. Many expect him to remain within the Japan Sumo Association as an elder (oyakata), where he could mentor the next generation. His popularity also makes him a likely figure in media, commentary, or promotional roles.

Endo’s retirement marks the end of an era. From his rapid rise in 2013 to his memorable victories over yokozuna, he leaves behind a legacy of skill, resilience, and charisma. For fans, his departure is bittersweet: the dohyo loses a beloved competitor, but his influence will endure in the stories, memories, and future wrestlers he inspires.