From The Japan Times · John Gunning · · 40s
Baku Sumo Championships Show Rising Standards
Global sumo standards rise at Baku championships with Japan and Ukraine leading medal counts.
In brief
Global sumo standards rise at Baku championships with Japan and Ukraine leading medal counts. Japan and Ukraine dominated the 2026 Baku Sumo World Championships, securing nine of twelve gold medals across men's and women's categories. Originally reported by The Japan Times.
Baku Sumo Championships
The 27th edition of the Sumo World Championships took place in Baku, Azerbaijan, last weekend.
Japan and Ukraine Lead Medals
Nine of the 12 gold medals available in various men’s and women’s categories went to Japan and Ukraine.
Other Nations Topping Podiums
Azerbaijan, Kyrgyzstan and Bulgaria also topped one podium apiece in the championships.
What matters most
Japan and Ukraine dominated the 2026 Baku Sumo World Championships, securing nine of twelve gold medals across men's and women's categories.
