Kimboshi — Gold Star
A kimboshi (金星, literally "gold star") is a special distinction awarded when a maegashira-ranked wrestler defeats a yokozuna in a regulation bout. It is one of the most celebrated upsets in sumo.
Kimboshi contribute to a wrestler's career merit bonus, so the achievement has lasting financial as well as sporting value. Multiple gold stars accumulate over a career.
Kimboshi are not awarded if the yokozuna loses by default (forfeiture due to injury), by disqualification, or by any means other than normal competition. Only wrestlers ranked Maegashira or below can earn kimboshi — sanyaku wrestlers (Komusubi, Sekiwake) are expected to compete with yokozuna and receive no special recognition for defeating them.
Earning a kimboshi is a career highlight for many wrestlers who never reach the sanyaku ranks, and the crowd reaction to a kimboshi upset is always electric.