Echoes: A Sumo History Podcast – Ep. #4 Icons of Pre-War Sumo: Hiroshi “Bud” Mukaye Part 2

Bud Mukaye was a powerhouse of pre-war sumo, dominating California’s sumo scene and shaping the sport for generations. From his early days as a multi-sport athlete to leading Nanka Sumo and taking on top competitors, his influence was undeniable. But his story didn’t end on the dohyo—incarcerated during WWII, he later served in the Military Intelligence Service, witnessing some of the war’s most brutal battles. This episode dives into his legacy, his impact on sumo, and the challenges he faced during and after the war. As we uncover his story, we also reflect on how history is remembered—and what is too often forgotten. Non-Profit Highlight: National Japanese American Veterans Council Content Warning: Graphic war discussions, including flamethrowers, napalm, civilian casualties, and POW treatment.