A major sumo wrestler scandal has erupted in Tokyo after the arrest of former top-division rikishi Amuru. The Russian-born athlete, whose real name is Nikolay Ivanov, was detained Sunday alongside an Uzbek national over disturbing allegations.
The sumo wrestler scandal involves serious charges of sexual assault and theft. Police claim the 41-year-old ex-wrestler and his 34-year-old accomplice met their victim at a Tokyo restaurant in April. Afterward, they allegedly lured the woman to a Shibuya karaoke bar where the crimes occurred.
Authorities report the suspects forcibly stole ¥40,000 while committing nonconsensual sexual acts. The sumo wrestler scandal has sent shockwaves through Japan’s traditional sports community. Investigators remain tight-lipped about whether either man has confessed.
Ivanov enjoyed a notable 16-year career in professional sumo before retiring in 2018. The former wrestler reached makuuchi division’s No. 5 maegashira rank at his peak. His fall from grace marks one of sumo’s most dramatic downfalls in recent memory.
The sumo wrestler scandal comes during a sensitive period for Japan’s national sport. Sumo has worked to improve its image following past controversies involving violence, gambling, and match-fixing. This latest incident threatens to undermine those efforts.
Legal experts suggest the charges could carry severe penalties if proven. Sexual assault convictions in Japan often result in multi-year prison sentences. The robbery charge may extend any potential jail time further.
As the investigation continues, sumo officials face mounting pressure to address the sport’s disciplinary protocols. Many fans express disappointment that another sumo-related scandal has tarnished the ancient sport’s reputation.
The case has drawn international attention due to the foreign backgrounds of both suspects. Japan’s sumo community now grapples with uncomfortable questions about foreign recruits’ conduct outside the dohyo.
This developing story represents perhaps the most damaging sumo wrestler scandal since the hazing death of a young wrestler in 2018. The coming weeks will reveal whether sumo’s governing body implements meaningful reforms in response.
