Young sumo wrestler dies of coronavirus in Japan

A handful of lower-ranking sumo wrestlers, trainees and a stable master have contracted coronavirus in Japan [COURTESY]

A 28-year-old sumo wrestler died in Japan on Wednesday after contracting coronavirus and suffering multiple organ failure, becoming the ancient sport's first COVID-19 fatality, the national association said.

Shobushi, a lower-ranking wrestler belonging to the Takadagawa stable in Tokyo, died early Wednesday after battling the disease for more than a month.