Ukrainian sumo wrestler Danylo Yavhusishyn, who wrestles under the ring name Aonishiki, said Monday that he had surprised even himself by becoming the first from his country to win a tournament in the ancient Japanese sport.

The 21-year-old, who fled the war in Ukraine three years ago, is set to be promoted to sumo's second-highest rank this week after winning the Kyushu Grand Sumo Tournament.

The victory earned Aonishiki his first title in only his 14th tournament.