Yokozuna: Grand Champion
Yokozuna (横綱) is the highest rank in professional sumo and is permanent. Unlike every other rank, a Yokozuna cannot be demoted. When a Yokozuna can no longer meet the competitive standard of the rank, the expected course is retirement.
The rank takes its name from the thick rope (yokozuna literally means "horizontal rope") worn around the waist during the formal ring-entering ceremony (dohyo-iri). There are two styles of the ceremony: the Unryu style and the Shiranui style, each with distinct arm positions.
Promotion consideration normally follows two consecutive championships at ozeki, or an equivalent record. The Japan Sumo Association makes the final decision after considering both competitive results and the dignity expected of the rank.