Sumo has a strict hierarchical ranking system called the banzuke, published before each tournament. Wrestlers are ranked across six divisions from lowest to highest: Jonokuchi, Jonidan, Sandanme, Makushita, Juryo, and Makuuchi.
The Makuuchi (top division) has its own internal hierarchy:
- Yokozuna — Grand Champion. The highest rank in sumo. Once achieved, it is permanent until retirement. Only 75 men have ever reached this rank.
- Ozeki — Champion. The second highest rank. Ozeki must maintain their rank or face demotion.
- Sekiwake — The third-highest rank.
- Komusubi — The fourth-highest rank.
- Maegashira — The rank-and-file of the top division, numbered from 1 (highest) downward.
The top four ranks (Yokozuna, Ozeki, Sekiwake, Komusubi) are called the san'yaku and receive special treatment, including facing only the toughest opponents in the final days of each tournament.
Rankings are updated after each tournament based on win-loss records. A wrestler who wins 8 or more of their 15 bouts achieves a kachi-koshi (winning record) and is promoted; winning fewer results in a make-koshi (losing record) and demotion.