A new paper has been published regarding the significance of 2D:4D (the length ratios of the 2nd (index finger) and 4th (ring finger).
A joint research team from the Kochi Branch of NHK (Japan Broadcasting Corporation), the Osaka School of International Public Policy, Osaka University and the Institute of Social and Economic Research, Japan, measured the finger lengths of 142 Japanese professional sumo wrestlers, finding that : “… sumo wrestlers with low 2D:4D had higher sumo ranks and better winning records.”
Their research paper : Second to fourth digit ratio and the sporting success of sumo wrestlers is in press at the journal Evolution and Human Behavior
Note:
The image above (via Wikipedia) is a photo of a woodcut print (circa 1850) depicting the famous Sumo wrestler Somagahana Fuchiemon. Improbable has digitally enhanced the wrestler’s left hand, clearly showing Fuchiemon’s 2D and 4D ratio – from which conclusions may be drawn.