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Toyota Center Baku welcomed a special guest on October 19: Hakuho Sho, one of the greatest champions in sumo history and the 69th yokozuna, the sport’s highest rank.
Held following the Sumo World Championships 2026 in Baku, the Champion’s Journey event brought together the centuries-old traditions of sumo, Japanese culture and Toyota’s philosophy. The gathering was attended by media representatives, members of the Association of Japanese Martial Arts and Culture, Toyota representatives and the company’s customers.
During the meeting, Hakuho Sho, who devoted 25 years of his life to professional sumo, shared insights into his career, the history of the sport and its underlying philosophy. He emphasized that sumo is built not only on strength and competition, but above all on respect, discipline and self-control.
The event held particular significance as Hakuho Sho attended Toyota Center Baku in his new capacity as president of the International Sumo Federation (IFS). Having succeeded Akio Toyoda in the role, he said he would continue advancing Toyoda’s vision of “Sumo to the World”, aimed at developing the sport and expanding its global reach.
A question-and-answer session was another highlight of the event. When asked by an attendee which car he drives, Hakuho Sho replied, “Lexus LM”. His spontaneous answer sparked particular interest among those present.
The programme went beyond conversation, with Hakuho Sho demonstrating fundamental sumo movements and techniques to the guests. The event concluded with a special Champion Meets Champion photo session alongside the Toyota Land Cruiser.
The gathering at Toyota Center Baku brought two distinct worlds together around shared values: respect, strength, discipline and a constant pursuit of excellence.
The event concluded with a message from Hakuho Sho that reflected his commitment to the continued development of sumo worldwide: “One Team, One Dream.”
Ən son xəbərləri səhifəmizdən də izləyin
