The newest Colorado State defensive lineman was recently called upon to lead his teammates in a series of pre-practice stretches.
Hidetora Hanada showed off some flexibility-testing poses, including deep squats that had some players grimacing - a glimpse into why he is a sumo grand champion.
Back in Japan, the 1.85-meter, 127-kilogram Hanada rose to the highest amateur ranks of sumo wrestling by refusing to be pushed around in the ring. He is taking that same approach to the football field as he learns the ropes of being a run stuffer/pass rusher for the Rams.
The 21-year-old has quickly adjusted to life in the foothills of Fort Collins, Denver. His English has improved, he knows the basic rules of football and is picking up some valuable kimarite - or finishing moves.
"While competing sumo in Japan, I started thinking that I wanted to fight many strong athletes worldwide. Football is the most popular sport in the United States and I wanted to see how I can compete in that environment," Hanada explained. "I wanted to see my limit. That's why I decided to challenge football."
In July, Hanada said he was attending Colorado State to play football. He was on track to possibly becoming a professional Yokozuna, which is the highest rank in sumo wrestling.
He already was an amateur Yokozuna, in addition to earning gold at the 2022 World Games in the heavyweight division.
While he was working out with a semi-pro football team in Japan called the IBM Big Blue, he met Mike Phair, the defensive line coach for Ottawa of the Canadian Football League.
"It's not always been easy and there have been many hard times," Hanada said, adding he is enjoying the new challenge.
Hidetora Hanada leads the Rams in pre-practice stretches. AP
Hidetora Hanada was a highly ranked amateur sumo wrestler before making the switch. AP
