Akebono became the first non-Japanese yokozuna in professional sumo.
Born Chad George Haaheo Rowan in Waimānalo, Hawaii, Akebono joined Azumazeki stable and made his professional debut in 1988. He reached the sport’s highest rank in January 1993, becoming the first wrestler born outside Japan to receive a yokozuna promotion.
His promotion followed strong performances at ōzeki, including tournament championships and the sustained excellence expected of a grand champion. At 203 centimetres, he was exceptionally tall for a top-level wrestler and used his reach and powerful pushing attacks effectively.
Konishiki was the first foreign-born ōzeki but did not become yokozuna. Akebono’s achievement was followed by fellow Hawaiian Musashimaru and later champions from Mongolia. Yokozuna is permanent: unlike lower ranks, a grand champion is expected to retire rather than be demoted.