 He left the Japan Sumo Association in 1998 but is still prominent in the sumo world as a commentator as of 2019.Kitanofuji began his professional career in January 1957 at the age of just 14, joining Dewanoumi stable.In November 1963 he achieved a perfect 15–0 score in the second highest "jūryō" division (a feat not equalled until 43 years later by Baruto) and was promoted to the top "makuuchi" division.