In sumo wrestling, what is a kinjite?

In sumo wrestling, a kinjite is a forbidden move.

Kinjite are actions that can cause immediate disqualification during a bout. Examples include punching with a closed fist, kicking above the knee, hair-pulling, choking, gouging the eyes and deliberately striking the opponent’s ears. The rules distinguish these prohibited techniques from legal pushing, thrusting and belt grips.

The purpose of the restrictions is to preserve sumo as a controlled grappling sport rather than an unrestricted fight. A wrestler may be defeated even if the forbidden action was accidental, although the referee and judges determine what occurred. The wrestler who committed the foul can lose the bout, while the opponent is awarded the victory.

Kinjite should not be confused with ordinary losing conditions. Stepping outside the ring or touching the ground with a prohibited body part is a defeat, but it is not itself a kinjite. Likewise, a wrestler’s legal grip or throwing technique may look forceful without violating the foul rules.