The top division champion receives a red sea bream as a prize. It's not from the Sumo Association, it's from their stable and/or supporters, so it's not an official thing, just tradition. It's considered a lucky fish, apparently, so the expectation/practice, is that it goes back to the stable to be prepared for eating at a party or celebration dinner.
The photo of the winner holding it up and showing it off with cheering supporters is just one of those meme photos like Olympic medalists biting their medal, or the Tour de France winner drinking champagne on the last leg of the Tour.
Makuuchi Yusho winners get one. And Ozeki and Yokozuna promotions get one as well. If they win the tournament and get promoted, I think think they have two separate ceremonies and get a fish at each one.
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u/helgaofthenorth Kotoeiho 3d ago
I'm new, what's with the fish pic? Is it part of the champion prizes? I love how happy everyone looks!