Akebono was the first wrestler born outside Japan to become a yokozuna.
Born Chad George Haaheo Rowan in Hawaii, Akebono entered professional sumo in Japan and rose through the rankings under the shikona, or ring name, Akebono. He received yokozuna promotion in January 1993, making him the first foreign-born wrestler to reach sumo’s highest rank.
His promotion was historically important because it demonstrated that the top rank was open to wrestlers who were not born in Japan. Akebono was also the first wrestler from the Hawaiian United States community to become yokozuna. His large frame, long reach and powerful pushing style made him a formidable rival during the early 1990s.
Akebono later became a Japanese citizen and pursued professional wrestling after leaving sumo. He is sometimes confused with Musashimaru, who was the second foreign-born yokozuna, and with other Hawaiian wrestlers who reached high ranks. Akebono’s achievement remains a major milestone in sumo’s international history.