10 Hidden Meanings Behind WWE Superstar Names

8. Yokozuna/ Rikishi

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WWE

Despite being 100% not-Japanese, Rodney Anoa'i was recast for his 'official' WWE bow as the Far East sumo supremo 'Yokozuna'. Though he was originally and vaguely billed from the 'Polynesian Islands', he soon started proudly waving the Hinomaru under his new Nipponesque name.

The sobriquet made perfect sense: 'yokozuna' is the highest rank in the ancient sport of sumo, loosely translating as 'Grand Champion'. Anoa'i's cousin, after undergoing his own sumotori transformation, had to settle for a lower rank: 'Rikishi' simply means 'sumo wrestler'.

 
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Editorial Team
Editorial Team

Benjamin was born in 1987, and is still not dead. He variously enjoys classical music, old-school adventure games (they're not dead), and walks on the beach (albeit short - asthma, you know). He's currently trying to compile a comprehensive history of video game music, yet denies accusations that he purposefully targets niche audiences. He's often wrong about these things.