Ozeki (大関) is the title of a ranking given to sumo wrestlers. The Ozeki, or champion rank, is immediately below Yokozuna, which is the pinnacle of the sumo ranking system. Until the yokozuna rank was introduced, Ozeki was the highest rank in sumo.
A rikishi at the rank of sekiwake or komusubi who wins approximately 33 bouts over three consecutive basho may earn the rank of ozeki. The quality of his sumo is also taken into account. Given the high standard required for promotion, compared to the lower ranks it is appropriate that the name literally means "the great barrier".
Unlike a yokozuna, an ozeki may be demoted if he has two consecutive makekoshi tournaments (tournaments in which he posts a losing record). After the first such result, the ozeki is kadoban and he must get a kachikoshi, or a majority of wins, in the next basho or he will be demoted to sekiwake. He can regain his ozeki rank in the next tournament if he wins ten or more bouts. If he fails to win ten, he must start the process from the beginning if he is to regain the rank.
Sumo wrestling
