In sumo wrestling, what is the wrestler’s retirement ceremony called?

In sumo wrestling, a wrestler’s retirement ceremony is called a danpatsu-shiki.

The Japanese term literally refers to a haircutting ceremony. During the event, people who have been important in the wrestler’s career take turns cutting a small lock of hair from the traditional topknot. The final cut is usually made by the wrestler’s coach, or oyakata, symbolizing the end of the wrestler’s active career.

The ceremony is normally held after retirement rather than immediately on the day a wrestler announces it. A wrestler may first receive an official retirement announcement and later hold a large public event at a major venue. Former stablemates, supporters, family members and fellow wrestlers can participate.

The danpatsu-shiki should not be confused with a dohyo-iri, which is a ring-entering ceremony before bouts. It also differs from a wrestler’s formal retirement announcement. Some wrestlers leave the sport without a large ceremony, but prominent wrestlers often hold one.