E. Honda
The sumo wrestler who fights to prove the strength of sumo to the world.
Edmond Honda (Japanese: エドモンド 本田), better known as E. Honda, is a professional sumo wrestler and sentō proprietor created by Capcom for the Street Fighter fighting game series. Introduced in Street Fighter II as part of the starting lineup, he has appeared in Street Fighter IV and the Capcom vs. SNK series, and made several cameos. He is one of the original eight playable characters in Street Fighter II, representing Japan alongside Ryu. Standing 185 centimetres (6 ft 1 in), his design features a mawashi (sumo loincloth) and a chonmage (topknot), chosen to make him look more distinctive than a traditional sumo wrestler and to illustrate his pride for Japan.
- Role
- Sumo Wrestler
- First Appearance
- Street Fighter II
Lore & Background
As introduced in Street Fighter II, Honda is focused on becoming the greatest sumo wrestler of all time, and teaches sumo to several students. However, upon learning that the world outside of Japan did not consider sumo a true sport, he left his dojo and entered the martial arts tournament to prove that sumo wrestlers rank among the greatest fighters in the world. Honda returns for Street Fighter IV, which is set shortly after the events of the second World Warrior Tournament. His goals have not changed, as his bio states that he is fighting to promote the technique of sumo. To this end, he goes on a world tour. It is revealed that he is a yokozuna (grand champion) but not officially recognized by the sumo association. His rival fight is against El Fuerte. Honda returns in the fourth season of Street Fighter V, having reopened the Honda Sento bathhouse and working to keep its guests happy. In Street Fighter 6, Honda opens a sumo-themed chankonabe restaurant called Chanko House Edomon in Metro City, which proves to be successful.
In Their Own Story
The arena lights hummed overhead, casting long shadows across the dust-choked floor. E. Honda adjusted his mawashi, the heavy fabric feeling familiar against his skin despite the strange surroundings. Across from him stood a challenger with eyes that burned like embers. 'Let us see if your spirit matches my strength,' Honda rumbled, his voice deep and resonant. He didn't need to shout; the sheer presence of his bulk commanded silence. With a sudden burst of motion that defied his size, he launched forward, not with anger, but with the focused intent of a mountain in motion.
Reader's Guide
E. Honda is a sumo wrestler whose fighting style revolves around charging at his opponent. Akiman, his creator, stated, 'I wanted the fat characters like Honda to come charging at you—for some reason. I feel that fat characters have a duty to charge.' Nakamura took this concept and gave him his horizontal flying headbutt attack. Named 'Super Zutsuki' in the notes she was given, she considered what made it super, and reasoned he had to fly. The concept completely surprised both Akiman and Nishitani, who saw it for the first time in game. Other attacks such as his Hundred Hand Slap, in which he attacks with a rapid flow of palm strikes, were fleshed out by the pixel artists on the team, and then drawn on paper by Nakamura. The character was meant to have above average strength, but below average speed, and intended to be popular in Japan but to also make Japanese fighting styles appeal to foreigners.
Did You Know?
- Honda was initially named 'Sumo' during development, with the team considering 'Suzuki' or 'Tanaka' before settling on Honda, which they felt would be more familiar to Western audiences.
- The development team held a rock paper scissors match to pick who would work on which character; Eri Nakamura came in second and chose Honda over 'the Beast', a character that would
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is E. Honda?
Edmond Honda is a professional sumo wrestler from Japan who runs his own dojo and fights in the World Warrior tournaments to promote the sport globally. He debuted as one of the original eight fighters in Street Fighter II alongside Ryu.
What are E. Honda's powers or fighting style?
His combat relies on sumo techniques, including powerful throws and his signature overhead chop called the Sumo Headbutt. He lacks projectile attacks but excels at close-range grappling and heavy physical strikes.
What is E. Honda's main motivation in the series?
His primary goal throughout the franchise is to prove that sumo wrestling is a legitimate martial art worthy of international recognition. He often travels to tournaments specifically to challenge top fighters and spread awareness about his sport.
Why is E. Honda important to Street Fighter history?
As an original cast member, he represents Japan's traditional culture within the game's diverse roster alongside Ryu. His enduring popularity ensures he remains a staple character in almost every mainline entry and crossover event.
How does E. Honda's story end or where is he now?
While there is no definitive final ending, recent entries show him continuing to run his sumo stable and participate in new tournaments. He remains active as a competitor dedicated to expanding the reach of sumo wrestling worldwide.
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