Former sumo wrestler Akebono Taro, the first foreign-born Yokozuna grand champion, has died at the age of 54.

Born in Hawaii, Akebono entered the sumo world in 1988 -- the same year as former Yokozuna brothers Wakanohana and Takanohana. He was promoted to the sport's highest rank in January 1993.

Akebono was 203 centimeters tall and weighed more than 200 kilograms at the height of his career. He won 11 championships before retiring in 2001.

Akebono resigned from the sport in 2003. He later fought in various mixed-martial arts and professional wrestling events. Sources say he died of heart failure.