Konishiki was born Saleva'a Fuauli Atisano'e on December 31, 1963. He grew up on the Leeward Coast of Oahu where many of its population are economically challenged. Konishiki's world opened up before him when he transferred to University Laboratory School in Honolulu, where he met many different people from various backgrounds, making him realize that the world is very big. His horizon further broadened when he moved to Japan to pursue a career in sumo, Japan's traditional national sport. Immersed in highly culturally-oriented world of sumo, Konishiki learned the importance of harmony between people, regardless of culture, religion, race, or ethnic origin.

Konishiki quickly rose up the ranks in sumo, eventually becoming the first non-Japanese sumo wrestler to attain the prestigious title of ozeki, sumo's second highest rank. During his illustrious 16-year career, Konishiki won a total of 733 bouts, including 649 in the top division, making him one of the most successful wrestlers in sumo history. He and his fellow non-Japanese wrestlers were highly influential in opening up the often closed world of sumo to the rest of the world.

Since his retirement from the sumo in 1998, Konishiki has made "giving back to the community" the main focus of his life. He has immersed himself in promoting Hawaii to the rest of the world through music and regular TV appearances. He has also been actively involved in various charitable causes concerning children, following his belief that kids are the future of the world.