In a dramatic development that has rocked the traditional world of sumo wrestling, the Japan Sumo Association has taken the extraordinary step of expelling Russian competitor Shobushi after he tested positive for cannabis use.
The decision, announced during an emergency meeting of the association's board, represents one of the most severe disciplinary actions in recent sumo history and underscores the sport's zero-tolerance approach to drug violations.
Breaking Centuries of Tradition
Shobushi, whose real name is Naranbat Gantulga, becomes only the second wrestler ever to be dismissed for cannabis use under the association's stringent anti-drug policies. The 25-year-old Mongolian-born Russian citizen had been competing in the sport's third-highest makushita division.
The positive test result emerged following a routine tournament in mid-July, sending shockwaves through the insular world of professional sumo. Association chairman Hakkaku expressed profound disappointment at the incident, emphasising that such behaviour "betrays the trust of sumo fans and violates the fundamental principles of our sport."
Strict Anti-Drug Stance in Traditional Sport
Japan maintains some of the world's strictest drug laws, and sumo wrestling—with its deep-rooted connection to Shinto traditions—upholds particularly rigorous standards of conduct for its athletes. Cannabis possession alone can carry penalties of up to five years imprisonment in the country.
The sumo association's response reflects this cultural context, with officials stating that "there is absolutely no room for illegal drugs in sumo" and that the expulsion serves as a clear warning to other wrestlers.
Impact on International Recruitment
This incident raises significant questions about the future of foreign wrestlers in Japanese sumo. While international competitors have brought diversity and heightened competition to the sport, cultural clashes and disciplinary issues have occasionally surfaced.
The association now faces renewed pressure to strengthen its guidance and monitoring of all wrestlers, particularly those from countries with different cultural attitudes toward substance use.
A Career Cut Short
Shobushi's dismissal effectively ends his professional sumo career, as expulsion from the association prohibits him from ever competing in professional sumo again. The wrestler, who had shown promising talent in his division, now faces an uncertain future both in Japan and internationally.
This case follows another high-profile cannabis-related expulsion in 2023, indicating that the association is maintaining its hardline stance despite growing global trends toward cannabis legalisation.
