Takayasu Akira: The Pride of the Filipino Community in Japan

Takayasu's achievements in the sumo world and his representation of the Filipino community in Japan

Takayasu Akira, the first Japanese-Filipino Ōzeki Sumo Wrestler, has been making waves in the sumo world and has garnered significant recognition for his achievements. Born on February 28, 1990, in Ibaraki, Japan, Takayasu made his professional debut in 2005 and quickly rose through the ranks to reach the top makuuchi division in 2011. This feat made him the first wrestler born in the Heisei era to achieve such a milestone.

Takayasu wearing a Keshomawashi on his debut at Dohyō Eri on March 2005

Throughout his career, Takayasu has displayed impressive skills and resilience on the dohyō. He has been a runner-up in tournaments seven times and has earned twelve special prizes, including six for Fighting Spirit, four for Outstanding Performance, and two for Technique. Notably, he has achieved five gold stars for defeating yokozuna, the highest-ranked sumo wrestlers.

Takayasu on the dohyō

In May 31, 2017, Takayasu was officially promoted to the prestigious rank of ōzeki, the second-highest rank in sumo. He maintained this rank for 15 tournaments, demonstrating his consistency and dedication to the sport. Despite facing challenges and injuries along the way, Takayasu has always shown determination and a strong competitive spirit.

Takayasu Akira, the pride of the Filipino community in Japan

Beyond his sumo career, Takayasu has a multicultural background that has contributed to his unique identity. His father hails from Ibaraki Prefecture in Japan, while his mother, Bebelita Bernadas Takayasu is from the island of Bohol in the Philippines. This Filipino heritage has earned him a special place in the hearts of the Filipino community in Japan, as he has become a source of pride and inspiration for many.

Takayasu with his mother, Bebelita Bernadas Takayasu, on his wedding reception

Takayasu recently celebrated a joyous milestone in his personal life. He announced his engagement to enka singer Konomi Mori in October 2019. They tied the knot in July 2020 and had a baby girl in February 2021. Their second child, a boy, was born in August the following year. The couple also had a traditional Japanese Shinto wedding with Takayasu's clan at Tsukubasan Shrine (筑波山神社, Tsukubasan jinja) in Tsukuba, Ibaraki Prefecture on June 2, 2023. Their second Shinto wedding was held at Hokkaido Shrine and celebrated with Konomi Mori’s family, relatives, and friends on the 10th of June. A week later, on June 17, 2023, their grand wedding reception was held at the グランドプリンスホテル新高輪 Grand Prince Hotel Shin Takanawa and attended by numerous celebrity guests. This occasion marked a significant chapter in Takayasu's life, and fans from all around the world congratulated him on this happy union.

The bride and bridegroom with their parents

Takayasu's dedication to his craft, his impressive sumo skills, and his positive representation of the Filipino community in Japan have made him a beloved figure in the world of sumo. As he continues his sumo journey, fans eagerly anticipate his future performances and hope to witness more remarkable achievements from this talented wrestler.

Takayasu Akira is currently immersed in intense preparations for the upcoming Nagoya Grand Sumo Tournament, scheduled to take place from July 9 (Sunday) to 23 (Sunday), 2023. With unwavering dedication and a burning passion for the sport, Takayasu strives to exhibit his immense strength and skill on the dohyō.

To all Nipino (Filipino in Japan), let's rally behind Takayasu and show him our unwavering support. As he represents the spirit of resilience, determination, and unwavering Filipino pride, let us join in cheering for our beloved sumo wrestler, inspiring him to achieve greatness in the upcoming tournament and all future tournaments in his career. With our enthusiastic cheers and unwavering support, we can create an atmosphere of unity and encouragement that will propel Takayasu to new heights in his sumo career. Mabuhay ka AKIRA TAKAYASU!

Special thanks to Mrs. Bebelita Bernadas Takayasu for the support given while writing this article. 

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