Konishiki Yasokichi I

was a Japanese professional sumo wrestler from Musha District, Kazusa Province. He was the sport's 17th yokozuna.

Early life and career His real name was . He was the son of a former ōzeki named who wanted his son to become a rikishi. His father asked professional wrestler , who had come to Sakura on a tour in 1881, to initiate his son into the sport in Takasago stable. At first, Iwai was unable to endure the rigorous training and ran away to his parents' house a couple of times, but with his father's encouragement, he decided to rejoin in 1883 and took up the name . He was very popular for his white body, gentle and pretty appearance, and warmth and innocence.

Fighting style Konishiki made up for his lack of physical strength with intense training. Championships for the best record in a tournament were not recognized or awarded before the 1909 summer tournament and the above unofficial championships are historically conferred. For more information see yūshō.