About
ABOUT-US
Supporting Aonishiki with unwavering strength.
Protecting the traditional culture of sumo, we welcome fellow supporters to join our circle and illuminate the path Aonishiki walks.
Purpose of the Fan Club
The Aonishiki Official Fan Club (Kouenkai) was established with the core mission of supporting Ozeki Aonishiki’s professional sumo activities, ensuring he can dedicate himself fully to the dohyo (ring) in peak physical and mental condition.
Leaping into the world of Grand Sumo all the way from Ukraine, Aonishiki has risen to the prestigious rank of Ozeki through relentless effort and pure passion. His profound respect for traditional sumo and his earnest dedication to daily training inspire and bring immense courage to all of us.
Sumo can be a solitary battle on the ring. To ensure Aonishiki can always compete with peace of mind and perform at his absolute best, we aim to channel your warm encouragement into an “unwavering strength” that stands firmly behind him. We would be deeply honored to expand this circle of support with as many of you as possible, walking alongside him every step of the way.
A Message from Our Chairperson
As a Ukrainian living and working in Japan, I have followed Aonishiki’s journey with particular admiration. What makes his achievements so compelling is not only his success in the dohyo, but also his ability to bring people together across cultures through sport.
His story and his victories resonate far beyond Japan and Ukraine, serving as a perfect reminder that dedication, determination and a positive mindset are the key components of success — and that they can build bridges between communities and inspire people around the world.
It is a tremendous honour to call Aonishiki a friend and to serve as the Chairperson of his official Supporters’ Association. Working alongside the wonderful Ajigawa Stable, we are committed to creating an environment in which he can focus entirely on the dohyo. Please join our koenkai to support this phenomenal athlete and incredible young man.
Chairperson, Aonishiki Official Fan Club
Alexander Dmitrenko
About the Chairperson
Alexander Dmitrenko is the Chairperson of Aonishiki’s Supporters’ Association. He is the Office Managing Partner of the Japan office of Ashurst Perkins Coie, a leading international law firm.
Alexander is qualified as a lawyer in New York State and in England & Wales, and is registered as a gaiben (registered foreign lawyer) in Japan. He has been living in Japan for over 16 years, and during his career in New York and Tokyo he has advised Japanese and other Asian clients on compliance-related matters for over 20 years.
Alexander is also a Tourist Ambassador for the beautiful island of Hachijojima, a co-Chair of LLAN (a Japanese NPO) and a former Chairman of TELL Japan (NPO).
Our Main Activities
Our fan club strives to deepen the bond between our members, Ozeki Aonishiki, and the Ajigawa Stable. Through the following activities, we provide comprehensive support to the Ozeki:
- Supporting Ozeki Aonishiki’s professional sumo activities and career
- Planning and organizing member-exclusive benefits and special events
- Providing tournament (Honbasho) results and regular updates on his daily activities
- Promoting sumo culture and fostering international fan exchange
Your passionate cheering serves as the ultimate driving force for Ozeki Aonishiki to reach even greater heights. Please join us in illuminating his path as he single-mindedly aims for the pinnacle of sumo. We look forward to welcoming you as a valued member of our community.