So, for a regular salaried sumo wrestler in the middle ranks (say, a maegashira ), the total earnings are about $150,000 to $300,000 per year. That’s a solid middle-class salary in Japan, especially considering your housing and food are provided by the stable. But remember: you’re also eating 10,000 calories a day, sleeping on a futon, and wearing a diaper-like cloth in public. It’s a trade-off.
Japanese Sumo Wrestling Cards and Menko: Show me the Yen!! How much
Meanwhile, the lowest-ranked wrestlers (the ones in the lowest divisions) make zero salary. They get a small monthly stipend (maybe $600) plus free food and board. They are essentially professional gamblers with their bodies, hoping to win enough matches to get promoted and become the next millionaire sumo star.
And you thought your side hustle was rough.
