Professional sumo wrestlers' income depends heavily on their rank, with enormous differences between the top and lower divisions.
Monthly base salaries (2025 figures):
- Yokozuna: ¥3,000,000 (~$20,000)
- Ozeki: ¥2,500,000 (~$17,000)
- Sekiwake/Komusubi: ¥1,800,000 (~$12,000)
- Maegashira (top division): ¥1,030,000 (~$7,000)
- Juryo (second division): ¥1,030,000 (~$7,000)
- Makushita and below: No salary (only a small allowance)
Only wrestlers in the top two divisions (Makuuchi and Juryo) — collectively called sekitori — receive a full salary. This creates an enormous incentive to reach and maintain these ranks.
Tournament prize money (basho): The winner of a Makuuchi tournament receives approximately ¥10,000,000 (~$67,000). Additionally, kensho envelopes — cash prizes sponsored by companies — are awarded per bout; popular wrestlers can earn substantial additional income this way. The Japan Sumo Association reported record kensho applications in 2025 and 2026.
Top wrestlers also earn income from tani-machi (personal sponsors), commercial endorsements, and appearance fees. A popular Yokozuna can earn several times their base salary through these channels.