The banners before the bout
Kensho is sponsorship prize money attached to a Makuuchi bout. Before the match, attendants called yobidashi carry sponsor banners around the dohyo while announcements name the advertisers. One banner represents one sponsored prize.
The Japan Sumo Association currently charges ¥70,000 per banner. ¥60,000 is allocated to the winning wrestler and ¥10,000 covers Association administration. The official explanation says ¥30,000 of the wrestler's share is placed in the envelope presented at ringside, while another ¥30,000 is held in the wrestler's name to help cover tax obligations.
After the decision, the gyoji presents the stack of envelopes on the gunbai. The winner makes a ceremonial hand-cut gesture before accepting it. A heavily sponsored bout produces a large stack. If the bout becomes a default win, the banners and prizes are withdrawn.