Makuuchi

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The Makuuchi (幕内), or Makunouchi (幕の内), is the top division in professional Sumo wrestling in Japan. The division comprises just over 40 wrestlers who are ranked according to their ability, as defined by their performance in previous tournaments. At the top of the division are the "titleholders", or "champions" called the sanyaku comprising Yokozuna, Ozeki, Sekiwake and Komusubi. There are typically 8-12 wrestlers in these ranks with the remainder, called Maegashira, ranked in numerical order from 1 downwards. Furthermore, these rikishi are separated into East and West divisions. According to the tradition of sumo, an East Maegashira is slightly higher in rank than his West counterpart.

This is the only division that is featured on standard NHK's live coverage of sumo tournaments. The lower divisions are shown on BS satellite coverage, with only the Makuuchi being broadcast bilingually.

The name Makuuchi literally means "inside the curtain", a reference to the early period of professional sumo, when the top ranked rikishi were able to sit in a curtained off area prior to appearing for their bouts.

Promotion and relegation within the Makuuchi ranks and in and out of the division exists, based on kachikoshi (majority of wins) and makekoshi (majority of losses). See separate articles on ranks for promotion and relegation criteria.