Masanosuke Ono Returns to Japanese Wrestling — A Possible Showdown with Arsen Harutyunyan

Japanese wrestling is getting a major comeback story: 21-year-old talent Masanosuke Ono, who sensationally won the 2024 World Championships in freestyle wrestling, will reappear in his home country after nearly a year away.

After his triumphs at both the U20 and senior championships in the 61 kg division—victories that came just two months apart—Ono abruptly changed the course of his career. Leaving Yamanashi Gakuin University, he moved to the United States and joined the legendary Penn State program, effectively disappearing from the Japanese competitive scene.

Now the young phenomenon is returning — and doing so with a bold statement. According to the published entry list, Ono will compete at the Emperor’s Cup (the Japanese national championships), which will take place on December 18–21 at Tokyo’s Komazawa Sports Complex. The tournament serves as the first qualifying stage for Japan’s national team for the 2026 World Championships, the Asian Games, and the Asian Championships.

Ono’s most unexpected decision is his move to the 57 kg weight class. This instantly fueled interest in a potential matchup with Armenian champion Arsen Harutyunyan, who has been highly successful in this division in recent years.

If Ono successfully makes the team and secures his spot, the 2026 World Championships in Bahrain (October 2026) may bring one of the brightest showdowns in international freestyle wrestling — Ono vs. Harutyunyan.