We have video, courtesy once again of One and Only, of Wakaichiro’s match against Wakakoki. Interestingly enough, Wakakoki pulled back from the line just as the tachiai was set to fire. I would assume this is Wakakoki using a disruption technique to help make sure he had an advantage over Wakaichiro. This is the kind of things you one can expect from a multi-year Jonidan veteran.
In spite of a rough tachiai, Wakaichiro put forth a huge effort, and his superior strength gave Wakakoki a lot of trouble. The match was decided at the tawara, as Wakakoki as in the process of forcing out an off balance Wakaichiro, Wakaichiro attempted a throw. It was close enough that the shimpan declared a monoii, but affirmed the Gyoji’s gumbai.
Fantastic effort by American rikishi Wakaichiro. With this match he drops to 3-3, his final chance to secure a winning record and move up the banzuke will come in his final match.
Wow, very close actually. Oh well, live and learn! Better luck next time.