1.
ōzeki, champion (second-highest sumo rank)
The second-highest rank in professional sumo wrestling, just below yokozuna (grand champion). Achieving ōzeki requires consistently strong tournament results.
彼は大関に昇進した。
He was promoted to ōzeki.
大関は横綱に次ぐ地位だ。
Ōzeki is the rank just below yokozuna.
大関が二場所連続で負け越すと、関脇に陥落する。
If an ōzeki has a losing record for two consecutive tournaments, they are demoted to sekiwake.
USAGE:
The sumo ranking system (番付) from top to bottom for the top division: 横綱 (grand champion), 大関 (champion), 関脇 (junior champion), 小結 (fourth rank). Historically, 大関 was the highest rank before 横綱 was established as a separate rank.
Promotion to 大関 typically requires about 33 wins over three consecutive tournaments. Unlike 横綱, an 大関 can be demoted for poor performance.
COMMON COLLOCATIONS:
- 大関に昇進する: to be promoted to ōzeki
- 大関陥落: demotion from ōzeki
- 大関昇進: promotion to ōzeki
- カド番大関: ōzeki on probation (must win to keep rank)