The Bulgarian, who became the first European to earn sumo's second-highest rank of Ozeki, largely praised for his success and lauded as the continent‘s best envoy to Japan modestly said that he was simply doing his job.

Kaloyan Mahlyanov, 22, Kotooshu , was promoted to Ozeki status last month.

Kotooshu, which means "European harp", is seen as a sensation in Japan, not only due to his performance in the ring but also because of his good looks, which have earned him the nickname "Beckham of sumo".

Bulgaria's Ambassador to Japan Blagovest Sendov visited Kotooshu. I‘m very proud of him, Bulgarian ambassador Blagovest Sendov said.

However, Kotooshu said he was just doing his job. I‘m just playing my sport, Kotooshu was cited as saying. If I'm helping to open the door between Europe and Japan, it makes me feel even better.

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