With this win, Terunofuji picks up his 4th win, ensuring he is kachi-koshi for Haru. He also enters the Jonidan yusho bracket, and will compete to determine the champion of the lower division.
Personally, I would almost advise him to hold at 4 wins no matter what. He is clearly in poor physical condition, and might benefit from a slower promotion path. One thing is clear, injuries or not – Terunofuji still is a fierce competitor, and seems to enjoy being back on the dohyo. His fans (and they are legion) are pulling for him every step of the way.
Thanks for this. It was great to see Terunofuji again. As you say, not in the greatest condition but still a welcome return to competition.
If he goes 7-0, will he go straight up to sandanme?
I will leave such prognostication to lksumo!
I’m going to take a punt on yes, but only if he takes the yusho
He will get into Sandanme with a 6-1 even. A 7-0 would put him at around the same number rank he is now in Jonidan (+100), while 6-1 around is rank is worth about +66 and for 5-2, +38.
His body might not be there, but the brain, knowledge, and experience that got him to Ozeki are all still there in his head. I would dread facing him 😳
He looks like he’s in pain even climbing into the ring, but he’s an adult and I suppose he knows what he’s doing. At least the seven bout schedule is kinder and allows more recovery time. I’ve got very mixed feelings about this Terunofuji situation: I’d love so see him back on form,but I don’t want to see him exiting the sport in a wheelchair.