Sabanna Yagi's 'No NG' Policy: The Secret Behind His Top Ranking in Comedy Bookings Revealed on 'Shikujiri Sensei'
In the latest episode of ABEMA's 'Shikujiri Sensei,' comedian Masumi Yagi of Sabanna shared his 'Sales Manual,' detailing how he maintains a top ranking in Yoshimoto Kogyo's performance bookings. From 'comedy with a live dog' to 'air mochi pounding,' his professionalism and crisis management skills left the studio in laughter and awe.
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- 📰 Published: May 18, 2026 at 20:30
- 🔍 Collected: May 18, 2026 at 12:01
- 🤖 AI Analyzed: May 18, 2026 at 12:06 (4 min after Collected)
The online TV platform ABEMA aired the latest episode of the variety show 'Shikujiri Sensei: Don't End Up Like Me!!' on May 15. The episode featured the second half of Masumi Yagi's (Sabanna) lecture on his 'Sales Manual.'
### Maintaining Top Rankings with a 'No NG' Policy
Yagi explained that his secret to staying at the top of Yoshimoto's booking list is his willingness to perform 'anything, anywhere.' He accepts roles in shopping malls, outdoor venues, and 360-degree stages that many comedians shy away from. He even revealed performing comedy with a real dog, a gig he started 14 years ago. Initially expecting a mascot character, he arrived to find a real dog eating his bento. Despite the unusual situation, the footage showed the audience thoroughly enjoying the performance.
### Adaptability in Extreme Situations
Yagi shared stories of handling crises, such as a 'mochi-pounding' event where the mochi didn't arrive due to traffic. He immediately decided to perform 'air mochi pounding,' mimicking the action with an empty mortar and pestle. He successfully repeated this feat the following year under similar circumstances. These experiences highlight his ability to turn any situation into entertainment.
### Connecting with Young Audiences and Relationships
Regarding performances for teenagers who may not recognize him, Yagi uses the names of legends like Sanma Akashiya or Downtown to draw interest. He also theorized that these crisis-handling skills apply to dating. He argued that a man who can stay calm and find alternatives—like suggesting a picnic if a restaurant is closed—is more dependable, a sentiment that resonated with high school guest Hirona Nagahama.
### Conclusion on Professionalism
Yagi concluded by stating, 'The worst thing you can do is not show up.' He emphasized health management as the foundation of his career. The episode is available for free for seven days on ABEMA.
### Maintaining Top Rankings with a 'No NG' Policy
Yagi explained that his secret to staying at the top of Yoshimoto's booking list is his willingness to perform 'anything, anywhere.' He accepts roles in shopping malls, outdoor venues, and 360-degree stages that many comedians shy away from. He even revealed performing comedy with a real dog, a gig he started 14 years ago. Initially expecting a mascot character, he arrived to find a real dog eating his bento. Despite the unusual situation, the footage showed the audience thoroughly enjoying the performance.
### Adaptability in Extreme Situations
Yagi shared stories of handling crises, such as a 'mochi-pounding' event where the mochi didn't arrive due to traffic. He immediately decided to perform 'air mochi pounding,' mimicking the action with an empty mortar and pestle. He successfully repeated this feat the following year under similar circumstances. These experiences highlight his ability to turn any situation into entertainment.
### Connecting with Young Audiences and Relationships
Regarding performances for teenagers who may not recognize him, Yagi uses the names of legends like Sanma Akashiya or Downtown to draw interest. He also theorized that these crisis-handling skills apply to dating. He argued that a man who can stay calm and find alternatives—like suggesting a picnic if a restaurant is closed—is more dependable, a sentiment that resonated with high school guest Hirona Nagahama.
### Conclusion on Professionalism
Yagi concluded by stating, 'The worst thing you can do is not show up.' He emphasized health management as the foundation of his career. The episode is available for free for seven days on ABEMA.
FAQ
Why is Sabanna Yagi ranked high in comedy bookings?
He adopts a 'do anything anywhere' policy, never refusing jobs like 'comedy with a dog' or 'air mochi pounding' which others avoid, ensuring he delivers laughs regardless of the environment.
What is his tip for performing for younger audiences?
He uses the 'big names' like Sanma or Downtown as hooks to grab their attention since they might not know him individually.
What is Yagi's final conclusion on professionalism?
He emphasizes that 'the biggest failure is failing to show up at the venue,' stressing the importance of health management for consistent work.