I've always thought that in order to be accepted in a sumo stable you have to be at least 5'8" high and you have to weigh at least 165lbs. But Toyonoshima is smaller than that and he's a professional sumo (maegishara status). Does anyone know if these requirements have changed? Or that an exception was made for Toyonoshima or something? Or was I just misinformed about the requirements to enter professional sumo? I was thinking that maybe certain heya don't use these requirements. Any info is appreciated.
As far as I know, sumo is like most other professional sports in that there are no set physical requirements, you just have to catch the eye of a scout. Scouts go around to countryside sumo festivals, collegiate wrestling tournaments, high school baseball games, etc, and just look out for lads that they think will make it as rikishi.
Requirements to enter a sumo stable 
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