Tomokaze Making Solid Progress in Rehab
Young hopeful, Tomokaze of Oguruma-beya suffered a severe knee dislocation during a fall from the dohyo in November of last year. The injury which took place in his day 2 match against Kotoyuki saw him — less than expertly — helped into a wheelchair, and transported from the Fukuoka Kokusai Center. Tomokaze had just reachedContinue reading “Tomokaze Making Solid Progress in Rehab”
Sakaigawa Wrestlers Pull Woman from River after Suicide Attempt
On Friday morning around 5:30, a man yelled for help after spotting a woman fall from the Fureai Bridge over Kena River. It appeared to be an attempted suicide. Not 30 seconds away from the bridge stands Sakaigawa stable where morning practice has been pushed back to 7am due to the virus. Sakaigawa-oyakata, hearing theContinue reading “Sakaigawa Wrestlers Pull Woman from River after Suicide Attempt”
Update on Antibody Testing
In a phone interview on the Friday, spokesman Shibatayama revealed that, when it comes to history of COVID-19 infections in sumo, there have so far been no further findings from the antibody tests. The association-wide testing began on May 18th. “Nothing out of the ordinary has been reported at this point in the testing process,”Continue reading “Update on Antibody Testing”
Active Wrestler Turns 50
The oldest professional sumo wrestler still competing, Hanakaze of Tatsunami-beya, turned 50 years old on May 28th. Hanakaze (Yamaguchi Daisaku) entered the ring for the first time in March 1986, recording only 13 days absent in the 34 years from that time until now. He reached his highest rank of Sandanme 18 in 2003. NeverContinue reading “Active Wrestler Turns 50”
Hakuho Remains Cautious, Takakeisho Resumes Full Contact Training
On the 27th, Yokozuna Hakuho relayed information on his current condition and state of mind with this month’s Natsu Basho having been canceled, and over a month and a half to prepare for the relocated July tournament. On Tuesday, Takakeisho also gave details on his progress. “While we battle the unseen virus, I have hadContinue reading “Hakuho Remains Cautious, Takakeisho Resumes Full Contact Training”
Kakuryu Proud Father of Three
Taking part in NHK’s “Special Basho” broadcast from a remote location, Yokozuna Kakuryu announced his second daughter (third child) was born this past April. The proud father fielded questions from NHK announcer Ota Masahide during the end of the program. “Last month, in the midst of these difficult times, my third child was born. I’veContinue reading “Kakuryu Proud Father of Three”
End to Japan’s State of Emergency? JSA Errs on the Side of Caution Either Way
On the 21st, sumo association spokesman Shibatayama addressed reporters about the possibility of a further extension to the state of emergency in Japan. “If it’s extended then we have no choice but to continue in our current state,” he said. Inter-stable practices are still prohibited, and whether the full contact butsukari-geiko is used is upContinue reading “End to Japan’s State of Emergency? JSA Errs on the Side of Caution Either Way”
Learning Japanese Spirit from a Hawaiian, a Novice Reporter Meets Akebono
With the current state of emergency in Japan, the sports world continues to observe self restraint. While games are on hold, Nikkan Sports is giving sports reporters a chance to look back on some significant memories they’ve made through the years. Today in Nikkan’s “My Memories as a Sports Reporter,” Imamura Kento recalls his firstContinue reading “Learning Japanese Spirit from a Hawaiian, a Novice Reporter Meets Akebono”
JSA Begins Antibody Testing
The JSA has begun administering antibody tests for COVID-19 to its 1000 plus members. “We are taking the antibody tests starting today,” said spokesman Shibatayama, “It was already administered to two stables, a total of 43 individuals.” He explained that going forward, two or three stables (roughly 50 people) per day will take the test.Continue reading “JSA Begins Antibody Testing”
Another “Izutsu Brother” Passes
Fukuzono Yoshimasa, a former Juryo wrestler who went by Kakureizan, has been found dead in his Tokyo home at the age of 60. The cause of death was acute heart failure. He was the son of 13th generation Izutsu-oyakata, and brother of Sakahoko (late Izutsu-oyakata #14) and Terao (Shikoroyama-oyakata). Debuting in the spring of 1975Continue reading “Another “Izutsu Brother” Passes”
Friends of Shobushi Pay Tribute
After the first coronavirus death in sumo on Wednesday, friends and colleagues of the young wrestler gave their condolences, and several looked back on his life and career. Shobushi was known for his part in “shokkiri,” slapstick performances demonstrating illegal moves and essentially everything that should not go down during a sumo match. Waki Katsuyoshi,Continue reading “Friends of Shobushi Pay Tribute”
Doctor Comments on Death of Young Wrestler
Humanitarian, author, and honorary director at Suwa Chuo Hospital in Nagano, Dr. Kamata Minoru commented on the recent death of lower division wrestler Shobushi. Suetake Kiyotaka (Shobushi’s real name) was the first known case of coronavirus within professional sumo, followed by his stablemaster Takadagawa, senior stablemate Hakuyozan, and four other lower division wrestlers from hisContinue reading “Doctor Comments on Death of Young Wrestler”
First COVID Death in Sumo
The unnamed lower division wrestler who became the first case of coronavirus within sumo has died. On May 13th, 28 year old fourth division wrestler Shobushi of Takadagawa-beya was pronounced dead after presenting with pneumonia and multiple organ failure. He is the first sumo wrestler, and in fact, the first professional Japanese athlete to dieContinue reading “First COVID Death in Sumo”
Onosho Aims for Sanyaku Return
Returning to the top ranks after over two years, West Maegashira 2 Onosho of Onomatsu-beya is applying laser focus to his fundamental skills in hopes of a re-promotion to sanyaku. On the 12th he spoke about his current progress in training, relaying the information through the JSA as is protocol lately. “Right now I’m focusingContinue reading “Onosho Aims for Sanyaku Return”
Hakuho Donates Masks to Japan and Mongolia
On the 11th, the Japan Sumo Association announced that Yokozuna Hakuho has donated a total of 25,000 masks to Japanese and Mongolian healthcare organizations. He purchased the masks with the prize money he won at Haru Basho in March. Hakuho’s comments were relayed through the JSA: “At the spectator-less March tournament, I was really prayingContinue reading “Hakuho Donates Masks to Japan and Mongolia”
Takanosho Preparing to Fight Yokozuna
This past Haru Basho marked 10 years of professional sumo for 25 year old Takanosho of Chiganoura-beya. It was only his fifth tournament in the top division, but scoring 12 wins earned him his first fighting spirit prize, co-runner-up with Kakuryu, and a career high of East Maegashira 2 on the current rankings chart. TakanoshoContinue reading “Takanosho Preparing to Fight Yokozuna”
Comic Artist Calls for Lifting of Sumo’s Social Media Ban
Famous manga artist and longtime sumo fan Yaku Mitsuru gave his candid opinion on the current state of sumo. A return to training and a lifting of the social media ban were among his wishes for the sport. The following are his words: “There’s nothing we can do about the cancelation. This situation is moreContinue reading “Comic Artist Calls for Lifting of Sumo’s Social Media Ban”
Asanoyama’s Current Attitude, Stablemaster Takasago Checks In
It has been nine years since the 2011 “yaocho” match-fixing scandal tore up the reputation of professional sumo. Spring of that year was the last time a honbasho was canceled. This past Monday, Japan’s state of emergency was extended to the end of the month, and in turn sumo was put on hold. On theContinue reading “Asanoyama’s Current Attitude, Stablemaster Takasago Checks In”
COVID Cases in Sumo Not the Reason for Cancellation says Shibatayama
April 4th was a big day in sumo news media, with 18 articles in the Grand Sumo section of Nikkan Sports alone. Public relations director Shibatayama offered a bit of insight into the Japan Sumo Association’s decisions to cancel Natsu Basho and to move the July tournament from Nagoya to Tokyo, and popular rikishi gaveContinue reading “COVID Cases in Sumo Not the Reason for Cancellation says Shibatayama”
Summer Tournament Officially Canceled
It has been decided that Natsu Basho will be canceled altogether. This decision came after Japan’s state of emergency, which was originally to expire on May 6th, was extended to May 31st. Natsu Basho 2020 will be the first canceled honbasho since the “yaocho” match fixing scandal of early 2011 forced a shut down ofContinue reading “Summer Tournament Officially Canceled”
Final Decision on Natsu Basho to be Made Monday
According to Shibatayama-oyakata, a final decision on whether or not to hold Natsu Basho could be made by the Japan Sumo Association as soon as May 4th, the same day that the government is expected to make an announcement regarding the extension of a state of emergency. “I believe the sumo association will make aContinue reading “Final Decision on Natsu Basho to be Made Monday”
Mitakeumi Training Hard, Natsu Basho Still TBD
Mitakeumi is making a return to Sekiwake after 10 wins in March. Excited to be standing at sumo’s third highest rank for the 12th time, despite the uncertain chances that he will get to flaunt it later this month, the expert belt fighter has been working hard to prepare. “I’m focusing on basic exercises, takingContinue reading “Mitakeumi Training Hard, Natsu Basho Still TBD”
Stablemaster and Wrestlers Recover from Corona!
On the 30th, spokesman Shibatayama told reporters that stablemaster Takadagawa (pictured), Juryo wrestler Hakuyozan, and the four anonymous lower division rikishi that had been hospitalized at the same time had all undergone treatment and retesting for COVID, and would be cleared to go home soon. When exactly they will be discharged has not been communicatedContinue reading “Stablemaster and Wrestlers Recover from Corona!”
Asashoryu’s Dogs Create a Family
Former Mongolian Yokozuna Asashoryu, who’s real name is Dolgorsurengiin Dagvadorj, posted on twitter (@Asashoryu) with the caption, “Sakura-chan finally became a mama.” About 20 minutes later, he posted photos of the puppies and a proud father, saying, “Masao became a papa.” Having been the 68th Yokozuna, Asashoryu has become an ambassador of sorts between MongoliaContinue reading “Asashoryu’s Dogs Create a Family”
A Former Gyoji’s Calligraphy Contribution
Former top ranking gyoji Kimura Shonosuke (real name Yamazaki Toshihiro) offered reminders and encouragement in the fight against COVID-19 in the form of calligraphy. At the request of Nikkan Sports, nine phrases were written and made available for use by the general public. They are reminders such as, “Let’s stay home,” and words of encouragementContinue reading “A Former Gyoji’s Calligraphy Contribution”
Kakuryu Aiming for 7th Title at Natsu
Natsu Basho will be the fifth tournament since Kakuryu’s last Emperor’s Cup. The West Yokozuna spent most of the time since then absent due to injury. But just last month, in a solid comeback, he ended the meet as runner up with 12 wins after being backed out by Hakuho in a final day tie-breaker.Continue reading “Kakuryu Aiming for 7th Title at Natsu”
Hakuho’s Renewed Motivation, Terunofuji’s Return, Kotoshogiku’s Records, and more on the Natsu Banzuke
AKA “Everything you could ever want to know about the upcoming tournament,” that is, minus whether or not it will actually be held or cancelled. Even though PR director Shibatayama has said outright that the JSA’s intention was to hold the tournament despite the virus’ recent infiltration into Takadagawa-beya and possibly beyond, the decision hasContinue reading “Hakuho’s Renewed Motivation, Terunofuji’s Return, Kotoshogiku’s Records, and more on the Natsu Banzuke”
Natsu Banzuke is Published!
As scheduled, the rankings chart was published early on the 27th. 695 wrestlers representing 45 stables make up the ranking chart for May. The top division ranks are listed here with a stable and origin discussion below. East MAKUUCHI West Hakuho Yokozuna Kakuryu Takakeisho Ozeki Asanoyama Shodai Sekiwake Mitakeumi Daieisho Komusubi Okinoumi Endo Maegashira 1Continue reading “Natsu Banzuke is Published!”
No Plans to Cancel Summer Sumo
Spokesman Shibatayama-oyakata clarified on Sunday that sumo officials are still gunning for a Natsu Basho starting on May 24th. These comments on the back of bad news from Takadagawa stable have us wondering if this is in any way safe. After a nerve wracking two weeks, during a month when most major sports were alreadyContinue reading “No Plans to Cancel Summer Sumo”
Six New Cases of COVID-19 in Sumo
The sumo association revealed Saturday that both stablemaster Takadagawa (former Sekiwake Akinoshima) and his own Juryo wrestler, Hakuyozan are among six new confirmed cases of coronavirus within the sumo world. The four other new cases, as well as the first one announced on April 10th, are lower division rikishi whose identities and stable affiliations willContinue reading “Six New Cases of COVID-19 in Sumo”
Infected Wrestler’s Status Unknown, Charging Practice to Resume
April 24th marks 2 weeks since the first case of coronavirus within the sumo association, an anonymous lower division wrestler, was confirmed. Reportedly, having not received word yet from the wrestler’s stablemaster on the progress of his treatment, public relations director Shibatayama told reporters, “I don’t know the current situation at that stable, and IContinue reading “Infected Wrestler’s Status Unknown, Charging Practice to Resume”
Hakuho on His Health, Training, and Toyonoshima’s Retirement
With the postponed Natsu Basho a little over a month away, Yokozuna Hakuho, who took home a 44th Emperor’s Cup at the March tournament in Osaka, is doing his best to heal nagging injuries and stay in fighting shape during the extra time off. On the 20th, he answered media questions over the phone aboutContinue reading “Hakuho on His Health, Training, and Toyonoshima’s Retirement”
Toyonoshima Retires from Wrestling, Takes on Izutsu Name
With a total of 13 tournaments in the Sanyaku ranks, 10 special prizes, 4 kinboshi, and top division runner-up 5 times, Toyonoshima of Tokitsukaze-beya has decided to retire from wrestling but will stay in sumo as a coach. He will take on the name Izutsu, formerly held by Yokozuna Kakuryu’s late stablemaster. Kajiwara Daiki (hisContinue reading “Toyonoshima Retires from Wrestling, Takes on Izutsu Name”
Worries Grow Over Confirmed Corona Case
A lower division wrestler tested positive for COVID-19 on Friday after experiencing a fever, fatigue, shortness of breath, and bloody phlegm. His symptoms began on April 4th, and he was promptly isolated from his stablemates. He has been in the hospital since the 8th and is undergoing treatment. According to spokesman Shibatayama, his physical conditionContinue reading “Worries Grow Over Confirmed Corona Case”
Mystery Wrestler First Confirmed Case of Corona in Pro Sumo
The sumo association has confirmed based on PCR testing at a Tokyo Metropolitan hospital that the lower division wrestler in question has indeed been infected with COVID-19. This is the first confirmed case of coronavirus within the professional sumo world. Little is known about the severity of his condition at this time, but he wasContinue reading “Mystery Wrestler First Confirmed Case of Corona in Pro Sumo”
Undisclosed Wrestler Testing for Virus, Further Postponements, Cancellations Likely
Sumo Association spokesman Shibatayama told press over the phone on Thursday that there is one suspected case of coronavirus within the wrestler ranks. The lower division rikishi, whose identity and stable-affiliation has not been made public, has displayed a high temperature, productive cough, and has complained of fatigue and labored breathing since Saturday. His temperatureContinue reading “Undisclosed Wrestler Testing for Virus, Further Postponements, Cancellations Likely”
Beloved Dog of Deceased Comedian Ken Shimura Living Well with Sumo Wrestlers
Featured image: https://twitter.com/yuzu0905 Famous comedian/actor Ken Shimura, Japan’s first known celebrity to become infected with coronavirus, died last month at the age of 70, with several ambitions left unfulfilled. His death came as a shock to many generations of Japanese, the Tokyo local having made an imprint on TV screens that spanned 6 decades. (Photo:Continue reading “Beloved Dog of Deceased Comedian Ken Shimura Living Well with Sumo Wrestlers”
Sokokurai Takes Over Arashio Stable [Video]
Holder of the “Arashio” elder stock, Sokokurai, has officially retired from wrestling and will take over Arashio-beya under said name. (Now) Arashio-oyakata, who is originally from Peoples Republic of China, Inner Mongolia, acquired Japanese citizenship last September, as it is a prerequisite for attaining elder status in the Japan Sumo Association. He will be replacingContinue reading “Sokokurai Takes Over Arashio Stable [Video]”
Official word on Asanoyama
The Japan Sumo Association has officially decided to promote Asanoyama to Ozeki, not based on the “33 wins” precedent which he did not quite achieve, but for his prolonged winning consistency in the upper ranks, his achievements including a top division yusho, and frankly, the need to fill the upper ranks as other top wrestlersContinue reading “Official word on Asanoyama”
Haru 2020 Title Winners
Haru 2020 Title Winners
Terunofuji Secures Critical 8th Win
On day 12 of the spectator-less 2020 Spring tournament, former Ozeki Terunofuji (currently East Juryo 3) fought Hoshoryu (West Juryo 9), the 20 year old nephew of legendary Yokozuna Asashoryu. Both men went into the day’s match seeking their kachikoshi with 7 wins apiece. After one false start the match was underway. Dodging the muchContinue reading “Terunofuji Secures Critical 8th Win”
Ura’s Climb Back to the Top
A day 11 oshidashi against Akinoyama (of Takadagawa-beya) saw former top division rikishi Ura (Kise-beya) add a 6th consecutive win to his bid for promotion to the Makushita division for May. “He was pretty heavy,” said Ura, looking back on the moment he collided with the over 190 kilo (~420lbs) Sandanme 10. Ura, who isContinue reading “Ura’s Climb Back to the Top”
Chiyomaru Tests Negative for COVID-19
Good news! Although it was already assumed to be just a common (for rikishi) case of cellulitis, the Japan Sumo Association has confirmed that Chiyomaru’s PCR test for Corona virus came back negative. Source: https://www3.nhk.or.jp/news/html/20200317/k10012335221000.html
Chiyomaru Exits Tournament with High Fever
West Maegashira 15 Chiyomaru withdrew on day 8 of the March tournament due to a high fever, forfeiting the win to East M17 Meisei who is now at 3-5. He is the 4th sekitori to withdraw from this basho, the others being Tomokaze (day 1), Tsurugisho, and Takayasu (both on day 5). He is theContinue reading “Chiyomaru Exits Tournament with High Fever”
Takayasu Severely Injured on Day 4
West Yokozuna Kakuryu faced West Maegashira 1 Takayasu in the final bout of day 4 of the Spring tournament. During the match, Kakuryu was not able to attack with his desired inside belt grip, but after a patient grip fight the Yokozuna gave up the belt and deflected Takayasu to the side for a tsukiotoshiContinue reading “Takayasu Severely Injured on Day 4”
Spring Tournament to be Held Without Spectators
There will be no spectators at Haru Basho 2020, but NHK will be broadcasting the event as usual. With the continued spread of the new Corona virus in Japan, many large scale sporting events have been cancelled or rescheduled at the request of the Japan Sports Agency and Prime Minister Abe. Even the 2020 OlympicsContinue reading “Spring Tournament to be Held Without Spectators”
Pre-Basho Events Cancelled/Closed to the Public
The Japan Sumo Association has announced new countermeasures against the Corona virus. The decisions are as follows: The ring entering and dedication ceremony at Sumiyoshi Shrine on February 29th is cancelled. The Spring Basho Eve festival on March 3rd is cancelled. There will be no general admission, only staff and sanyaku rikishi allowed at theContinue reading “Pre-Basho Events Cancelled/Closed to the Public”
Haru Basho Banzuke Highlights
The new rankings have finally been announced for Haru Basho 2020! Tokushoryu achieves his highest rank ever After his historical feat of winning a top division tournament from the very lowest rank (M17 West) — only the second time a rikishi has done so — Tokushoryu has jumped an entire 31 ranks to West MaegashiraContinue reading “Haru Basho Banzuke Highlights”
Sumo Wrestlers and Babies, Event Cancelled due to Corona Virus Risk
The Japan Sumo Association announced that they have decided to cancel a photography session where parents have a chance to photograph their babies in the arms of some of their favorite rikishi. The event, frightening for some, adorable for most, was scheduled for February 25th. With the recent fast-moving Corona virus, the event coordinators feltContinue reading “Sumo Wrestlers and Babies, Event Cancelled due to Corona Virus Risk”
West Yokozuna, Ozeki to be Held by One Wrestler Simultaneously
On the 29th, the Japan Sumo Association confirmed that there will be a joint Yokozuna-Ozeki listing on the rankings chart for the upcoming Haru Basho in March. With Goeido’s recent decision to retire, Takakeisho is the only current Ozeki. As Takakeisho will naturally fill the East Ozeki slot (East being a higher position than West),Continue reading “West Yokozuna, Ozeki to be Held by One Wrestler Simultaneously”
