Akebono Taro, the first non-Japanese yokozuna in sumo wrestling history, sadly passed away at 54 from a heart attack. Born in Hawaii as Chadwick Haheo Rowan, he initially pursued basketball, earning a university scholarship. He rose to fame in sumo, achieving yokozuna status in 1993 and later becoming a Japanese citizen.

The family of Akebono, confirmed his passing due to heart failure in a Tokyo hospital earlier this month. His wife Christine Rowan informed The Associated Press of his death recently, explaining a delay in the announcement due to personal matters. Akebono, a native Hawaiian, moved to Tokyo in the late 1980s, achieving his first grand sumo championship in 1993. The U.S. Ambassador to Japan, Rahm Emanuel, expressed his condolences and highlighted Akebono’s role as a cultural bridge between the U.S. and Japan, as well as his impact on sumo wrestling.

Akebono won 11 tournaments and was noted for his imposing stature (203 cm, 233 kg).

After his sumo career, Akebono Taro transitioned to K1 and mixed martial arts (MMA). In K1, a stand-up fighting sport combining techniques from various martial arts, Akebono participated in several high-profile fights, showcasing his ability to adapt to different combat sports formats.

In MMA, he fought against well-known fighters, including an iconic match against Royce Gracie. Despite facing challenges and not achieving the same level of success as in sumo, Akebono’s foray into these sports was a notable aspect of his post-sumo career.

Despite health challenges in recent years, including major issues seven years ago, his death has deeply saddened the sports world.