American Sumo Hall of Fame
The American Sumo Hall of Fame is organized to honor those who have made extraordinary contributions to the sport of sumo in America. Click this link for the policy on nominating an individual. Inductions to the Hall of Fame are considered once per year at the USSF national meeting.
EMMANUEL YARBROUGH
1964-2015
Inducted 2026
Emmanuel "Manny" Yarbrough was the most accomplished wrestler in the history of American amateur sumo. In 1995, he earned a gold medal in the men's openweight division, which to this day is the only World Championship earned by an American amateur. He also earned 6 silver medals and 2 bronze in his career while helping found the USSF in the 1990s. Manny passed away in 2015 but will remain a symbol of American sumo forever.
TAKAMIYAMA DAIGORO
Inducted 2026
Takamiyama (born Jesse Kuhaulua) was the first non-Japanese wrestler to win a yusho (tournament championship) and to coach a stable in professional sumo. He paved the way for later American wrestlers to compete in professional sumo, including coaching the first non-Japanese Yokozuna, Akebono. Takamiyama retired from coaching in 2009 and remains in Japan.
ERNIE HUNT AND JOHN JACQUES
Inducted 2026
Ernie Hunt and John Jacques were fundamental figures in establishing sumo wrestling in Hawaii in the 1970s and 80s, as well as helping to send many American wrestlers to Japan to compete in professional sumo. Jacques was also a co-founder of the USSF in the 90s and helped establish the organizational framework for amateur sumo in America. Ernie and John remain close friends to this day.