Hawaii-born sumo wrestling legend Akebono Taro, who made history as the first foreign-born wrestler to achieve the prestigious title of yokozuna, has passed away at the age of 54.
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Akebono, born Chad George Ha’aheo Rowan, died in April, 2024, due to heart failure while under hospital care in the Tokyo area, his family confirmed in a statement.
“It is with sadness that we announce Akebono Taro died of heart failure earlier this month while receiving care at a hospital in the Tokyo area,” the family said.
His wife, Christine Rowan, shared that he passed away “within the past week” but chose to keep the details private until necessary arrangements were made.
Credit: Koji Sasahara/AP
Akebono rose to fame in the world of sumo wrestling after relocating to Tokyo in the late 1980s. In 1993, he achieved the remarkable feat of becoming the first foreign-born wrestler to attain the rank of yokozuna, the highest title in sumo.
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Standing at an impressive 6-feet-8 inches (2.03 meters) and weighing around 500 pounds (225 kilograms) at his prime, Akebono dominated the sport with his sheer size and skill.
The passing of Akebono prompted condolences from dignitaries, including the United States ambassador to Japan, Rahm Emanuel, who praised the sumo legend for his contributions to the sport and cultural exchange between the U.S. and Japan.
Throughout his illustrious career, Akebono secured 11 grand tournament victories before retiring from sumo wrestling in 2001.
A private celebration of his life will be held by friends and family, as stated by the family’s announcement. Akebono is survived by his wife, Christine, daughter, and two sons.
“The family kindly asks for privacy during this time of mourning,” the statement concluded.
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