Hatsu 2025

Hatsu 2025, Day Eight

Andy Debut, Hatsu 2025, Hatsu Basho

It’s Nakabi! This means that early in the day our debutants were decked out in kesho mawashi and introduced to the sumo world after completing maezumo. This ceremony is called the Shinjo-Shussehiro (新序出世披露), a presentation of new wrestlers to the bottom Jonidan division. Hikarumusashi, Musashimaru’s nephew and the newest American rikishi, was introduced alongside his stablemate, Uchiumi, and another of Asashoryu’s nephews, Tenrosei.

Another rikishi to watch from this class is Sunasaki who, along with Tenrosei, won his first three bouts. In the photo below, he is squating in the front row with Hikarumusashi on our left and Tenrosei on the right. These seven young men will compete in Osaka for the Jonokuchi yusho.

Your NHK videos are here: Juryo Part I & Part II, Makuuchi Part I & Part II.

Shishi, Aonishiki, and Wakaikari continue to press for the Juryo yusho with one loss a piece. Oshoumi, Tochitaikai, Ryuden, and Asakoryu chase with two losses.

Makuuchi Action

Kayo (Juryo 4-4) defeated Nishikifuji (4-4). Kayo tipped Nishikifuji over the bales as he fell forward. Gunbai Kayo. Mono-ii. The judges determined both men fell out at the same time so they ordered a torinaoshi (rematch). On the rematch, Kayo tried a henka which was quickly caught out by Nishikfuji. However, Kayo spun and used his left hand under Nishikifuji’s armpit to shove Nishikifuji forward. Tsukiotoshi.

Tokihayate (4-4) defeated Kotoshoho (1-7). Kotoshoho spun Tokihayate to the bales but Tokihayate countered and drove forward, forcing Kotoshoho back to the opposite edge. Kotoshoho used the bales to stabilize himself and drove forward through the ring. He forced Tokihayate back to the edge and tried to pitch him over. But Tokihayate grabbed Kotoshoho’s belt and dragged him back toward the center of the ring and threw him with his right-hand outside belt grip. Uwatedashinage.

Hakuoho (5-3) defeated Nishikigi (4-4). Solid tachiai. Hakuoho quickly got both hands under Nishikigi’s armpits and drove Nishikigi back and over the bales. Yorikiri.

Onokatsu (5-3) defeated Kagayaki (2-6). Kagayaki charged forward early. Reset. At the initial clash, Kagayaki slammed his head into Onokatsu and drove him to the bales. Onokatsu’s left leg used the tawara for leverage and he drove Kagayaki back to the other side where he eventually forced Kagayaki over. Yorikiri.

Tamashoho (3-5) defeated Midorifuji (1-7). Tamashoho started with his tsuppari but Midorifuji reached inside and got a solid grip of Tamashoho’s mawashi. This forced Tamashoho into a grapple. Tamashoho picked Midorifuji up but could not move forward for the tsuridashi. charged forward and drove Midorifuji out. Yorikiri.

Takerufuji (7-1) defeated Kitanowaka (4-4). Kitanowaka’s right ankle buckled as Takerufuji drove into him at the bales and forced him over the edge. He was not able to put any weight on it to return to the ring and had to be wheeled away in the giant wheelchair. It was obvious he was in pain but it was not obvious whether it was rolled and a really bad sprain, or broken. We’ll follow up with news when we hear it. Oshitaoshi.

Kinbozan (8-0) defeated Tamawashi (6-2). This battle between two powerful pusher-thrusters was determined the only way it could be…by yorikiri. Both men traded tsuppari as the brawled around the ring. Kinbozan reached inside and locked up Tamawashi with a morozashi, double-inside belt grip, and quickly drove Tamawashi out. Yorikiri.

Shonannoumi (3-5) defeated Meisei (2-6). Meisei grabbed Shonannoumi’s belt and drove forward but Shonannoumi stopped at the edge, pivoted, and brought Meisei down. Kotenage.

Takayasu (5-3) defeated Oshoma (4-4). Takayasu drove Oshoma back to the bales. When Oshoma resisted, Takayasu pulled and slapped Oshoma down into the center of the ring. Oshoma had actually stepped out earlier at the bales. Oshidashi.

Ichiyamamoto (5-3) defeated Churanoumi (3-5). Ichiyamamoto-zumo. Ichiyamamoto’s tsuppari forced Churanoumi back and out. Oshidashi.

Halftime

Hiradoumi (4-4) defeated Mitakeumi (2-6). Hiradoumi used a right-hand inside, left-hand outside belt grip and steady gaburi-yori (hip-thrusting action) to force Mitakeumi over the bales. Yorikiri.

Takarafuji (4-4) defeated Chiyoshoma (7-1). Chiyoshoma drove forward, forcing Takarafuji back to the edge quickly. Takarafuji pulled on Chiyoshoma’s wrist at the edge, yanking Chiyoshoma out. How The Turn Tables, indeed. Tottari.

Ura (4-4) defeated Endo (3-5). Solid tachiai from Endo as he forced Ura back to the edge. Ura used the bales to resist and shoved Endo back to the center of the ring. Endo reached in with his left hand but Ura grabbed onto Endo’s arm and pulled him forward and off the dohyo. Tottari.

Gonoyama (5-3) defeated Atamifuji (2-6). Gonoyama’s oshi-game was on point while Atamifuji is probably still trying to figure out exactly what he wants to do with his life. Gonoyama just plugged forward and shoved Atamifuji over the bales. Maybe Atamifuji tried some pull at the edge but I don’t think even he knows what he was doing. Oshidashi.

Sanyaku

Abi (5-3) defeated Tobizaru (5-3). Abi tried pulling from the start. He did half a lap around the ring before deciding that wasn’t working. So, he changed direction and drove into Tobizaru with steady thrusts. This forced Tobizaru back and out. Oshidashi.

Kirishima (5-3) defeated Wakamotoharu (1-7). Kirishima yanked on Wakamotoharu’s belt and pulled him to the edge. At the edge he released and slipped to the side, trying for a slapdown. Wakamotoharu stumbled forward and Kirishima shoved him from behind to finish him off. Wakamotoharu is a barge, whose pilot has fallen into the river. Adrift. Okuridashi.

Daieisho (6-2) defeated Takanosho (2-6). Daieisho was careful today not to get caught too far forward. As Takanosho shifted and pulled, Daieisho kept his footing and steadily pursued. Eventually he worked Takanosho to the edge and forced him over. Yorikiri.

Kotozakura (3-5) defeated Oho (6-2). Oho seemed to give up on forward-moving sumo when Kotozakura offered resistance. Kotonowaka tried a pull so Oho tried a pull and they tried to out-react each other. Kotozakura reached inside for Oho’s belt and swung him around and down. Finally, some sort of offense! I think it’s pretty clear Kotozakura’s left knee is hurt pretty bad, though. I do not think he can put much weight on it. Uwatedashinage.

Onosato (5-3) defeated Wakatakakage (3-5). Both men had right-hand inside grips. Onosato’s belt was loose, so Wakatakakage did not get a whole lot of leverage from it. As they waltzed around the ring, Onosato used his left to try to force Wakatakage to give it up. But Wakatakakage was persistent, as if to say, “I’m never going to give you up, never going to let you down, never gonna run around and desert you.” Onosato never over-extended. He was patient. Onosato calmly drove forward and when he finally worked Wakatakakage to the edge, he pressed him over the bales. Yorikiri.

Shodai (3-5) defeated Hoshoryu (6-2). Hoshoryu shoved Shodai several times back toward the bales. As he neared the edge, Shodai thrust into Hoshoryu with power from his right, enough to stagger the Ozeki. Uh-oh. THAT Shodai showed up today. He shoved Hoshoryu again and pressed forward, forcing Hoshoryu to the opposite edge. Hoshoryu tried to slip to the right and pull Shodai forward, but Shodai moved laterally and shoved Hoshoryu again, blasting the Ozeki into Kototsubasa, ringside to do his yumitorishiki. Oshitaoshi.

Wrap-up

Well, Nakabi was rather devastating today. Chiyoshoma’s zensho yusho run is over. Kitanowaka’s whole tournament might be over. Oho’s dark horse run is over. Hoshoryu’s rope run is over. Kinbozan is our only undefeated top-division wrestler, with Takerufuji and Chiyoshoma in pursuit with one loss. Hoshoryu, Daieisho, and Oho will need help to get back into this yusho race.

Looking to tomorrow, Kinbozan will fight Takerufuji in what will surely be a highlight match since both men are performing well and ranked below their true potential. Both of these guys should be about ten ranks higher, if not for recent injuries. Chiyoshoma will fight Churanoumi. Hoshoryu will fight Hiradoumi and Daieisho will fight Onosato.

Kotozakura will take on Ura in a bout which I only mention because Kotozakura is Ozeki. The way Abi and Kirishima have been fighting, their match-up will be an interesting one, as well. I’m not sure if there will be enough kensho on Gonoyama to interest Shodai, but we will see.

Hatsu 2025, Day Seven

Andy Hatsu 2025, Hatsu Basho ,

News from the infirmary that Roga is kyujo again. He was obviously still hobbled by his injury and unable to win. Chiyoshoma will pick up the default fusen victory.

The NHK videos are here: Juryo Part I & Part II, Makuuchi Part I & Part II.

The contest in Juryo is down to the two Ukrainians, Shishi and Aonishiki, and Wakaikari. The three men lead with one loss. Six guys trail with two losses, including Asakoryu, Ryuden, Tochitaikai, Oshoumi, Hakuyozan and Kotoeiho. Aonishiki wrangled Daiseizan with an impressive whirling attack, culminating in a second consecutive shitatehineri. Do what works.

Makuuchi Action

Hakuoho (4-3) defeated Tamashoho (2-5). Tamashoho henka but Hakuoho adjusted well and latched on with his left-hand inside and right-hand outside. Tamashoho’s loose belt clearly created challenges for Hakuoho, who was heavily taped on his back and seemed to be in pain. Yorikiri.

Kinbozan (7-0) defeated Tokihayate (3-4). Kinbozan destroyed Tokihayate with a series of his brutal thrusting nodowa attacks. He drove him to the edge and then slammed him to the ground with a powerful left hand. Ouch. Oshitaoshi.

Kagayaki (2-5) defeated Kotoshoho (1-6). Several clashes of heads as Kagayaki and Kotoshoho clunk into each other repeatedly. Kagayaki’s tsuppari, paired with the head butts, forced Kotoshoho back to the edge and over the bales. Oshidashi.

Nishikifuji (4-3) defeated Shonannoumi (2-5). After a short flurry of tsuppari, Nishikifuji secured Shonannoumi’s belt and churned forward. On the way, he shifted his right hand grip from outside to inside, securing a morozashi to finish Shonannoumi off with ease. Yorikiri.

Onokatsu (4-3) defeated Kitanowaka (4-3). Kitanowaka shifted to the side at the tachiai and locked on with his left hand deep on Onokatsu’s belt. This allowed him to drag Onokatsu to the edge. However, Onokatsu recovered his footing along the bales and turned the tables with his own solid belt grip. He drove forward into Kitanowaka and forced him out. Yorikiri.

Tamawashi (6-1) defeated Nishikigi (4-3). Tamawashi locked horns with Nishikigi at the middle of the ring, rather than launching his trademark aggressive tsuppari. Nishikigi shoved Tamawashi back behind his right hand and started to surge forward. But Tamawashi countered and knocked that right hand away, slipped to his right, and slapped Nishikigi down. Strategery. Hatakikomi.

Takerufuji (6-1) defeated Oshoma (4-3). Takerufuji secured a morozashi at the tachiai to drive into Oshoma, forcing him to the edge. Oshoma tried to slip down the bales but Takerufuji obliterated him with a powerful shove to the neck. Oshidashi.

Churanoumi (3-4) defeated Midorifuji (1-6). Midorifuji false start. Midorifuji pitched forward to re-engage but Churanoumi backed up and slapped Midorifuji down with his right-hand firm at the base of Midorifuji’s neck. Hatakikomi.

Takarafuji (3-4) defeated Meisei (2-5). Meisei let Takarafuji get inside and secure a left-hand inside belt grip. Takarafuji got the legs churning and drove Meisei back and out. Yorikiri.

Takayasu (4-3) defeated Mitakeumi (2-5). Takayasu quickly secured Mitakeumi’s mawashi and drove him back to the bales. Mitakeumi tried to shift to his right along the bales but Takayasu followed and forced him over. Yorikiri.

Halftime

Chiyoshoma (7-0) fusen win over Roga (0-3-4)

Hiradoumi (3-4) defeated Endo (3-4). Endo slow-rolls Hiradoumi into a false start. It didn’t help, however, as Hiradoumi launched into Endo, locked up his right-hand inside grip and he quickly forced Endo back. Endo tried a lazy slapdown with his right but he was already toast. Yorikiri.

Ura (3-4) defeated Ichiyamamoto (4-3). Ichiyamamoto tried to pull and slap Ura down. Not a wise choice as Ura charged forward, staying with Ichiyamamoto. Ichiyamamoto jumped and drove Ura down but Ichiyamamoto was already dead in the air. Incompetence. Oshidashi.

Tobizaru (5-2) defeated Shodai (2-5). Shodai had control for most of this bout. Tobizaru hung on for the ride as Shodai dragged him around the dohyo and importantly kept Tobizaru front-and-center. But at the edge Tobizaru slipped away from Shodai’s grip at a critical moment. Shodai tried to hurl Tobizaru over the edge but Tobizaru got in behind and pushed Shodai from the back. What an escape! Okuridashi.

Sanyaku

Kirishima (4-3) defeated Wakatakakage (3-4). Kirishima grabbed Wakatakakage’s left arm and dragged him back to the bales. Kirishima shifted right along the bales and used his left leg to tip hims forward. Tottari.

Takanosho (2-5) defeated Abi (4-3). Takanosho shifted left as Abi charged forward, nearly forcing him out. Abi slammed on the brakes and reengaged. Unfortunately for Abi fans, he decided to pull and Takanosho chased him out of the ring. Oshidashi.

Daieisho (5-2) defeated Wakamotoharu (1-6). Daieisho pounded away with his tsuppari. Wakamotoharu tried to force Daieisho’s arms away and leaned forward to try to get away from the tawara, so Daieisho shifted to the side and let Wakamotoharu fall forward. Tsukiotoshi.

Onosato (4-3) defeated Atamifuji (2-5). Atamifuji used his right hand inside Onosato’s armpit to hold Onosato high and drive him back to the edge. Onosato recovered and tried to break Atamifuji’s hold with left-hand ottsuke but Atamifuji would not relent. Onosato locked in with his right hand inside and struggled to force Atamifuji back. He pitched right and that dragged Atamifuji to the side, putting his back to the edge. Onosato then used gaburi yotsu to force Atamifuji over the edge. Yorikiri.

Hoshoryu (6-1) defeated Oho (6-1). Oho pulled at the start Hoshoryu was on him like white on rice. Oho moved forward and Hoshoryu yanked on Oho’s right arm, pulling him forward. From Oho’s right side Hoshoryu tried to pull him over the edge but Oho resisted and pitched forward. This effectively turned Oho’s back to Hoshoryu so Hoshoryu leapt in to attack from behind and rushed Oho across the ring, shoving him to the ground at the edge. Okuritaoshi.

Kotozakura (2-5) defeated Gonoyama (4-3). Kotozakura’s left knee is taped and the way Gonoyama drove him back to the bales made me think he really cannot put much weight on it. Kotozakura used his right-foot only to brace against the tawara and resist Gonoyama’s charge and he settled things down in the center but was unable to launch an attack.  Instead, Gonoyama pressed forward again, driving Kotozakura back to the edge of the dohyo. The Ozeki teetered on the bales and pulled Gonoyama forward to the ground. Gunbai Kotozakura. No mono-ii. None needed. Kotozakura won and replays show Gonoyama fell forward first. Tsukiotoshi.

Wrap-up

Several solid wins from Kirishima this tournament as he tries to re-establish himself at the top of the division. Onosato had a great recovery but sure came close to another quick loss. Hoshoryu demonstrated what he failed to show in the loss to Atamifuji, an ability to adapt to his opponent and the ability to attack in different ways to find a solution. Kotozakura was very fortunate to pick up his second win today.

Kinbozan will face Tamawashi while Chiyoshoma takes on the Takarabune. That Kinbozan/Tamawashi bout will be interesting. Tamawashi is not going to like nodowa. When Chiyoshoma gets his kachi-koshi, I would expect him to move up and face stiffer competition in Week Two.

Kotozakura will get his turn against Oho tomorrow. As well as Oho is fighting, and as hurt as Kotozakura seems to be, this will not look promising for the Ozeki who is drawing close to kadoban. Onosato will take on Wakatakakage, who has appeared shaky in the last few days. Wakatakakage is always dangerous so Onosato will need to reestablish his fundamentals and leverage his size and good footwork to force him out. Finally, Hoshoryu will face Shodai. We know Shodai will bring it because there will be a massive stack of kensho on the line.

Hatsu 2025, Day Six: Terunofuji Steps Aside

Andy Hatsu 2025, Hatsu Basho ,

The big news coming into Day Six action is the sudden retirement of Yokozuna, Terunofuji. Terunofuji will remain with the sumo association as a coach, Terunofuji-oyakata. This brings his storied career to an end. He rocketed up the banzuke and reached the rank of Ozeki before knee injuries led to his demotion and eventual fall into Jonidan. Encouraged to stick with it by Isegahama-oyakata, Terunofuji climbed back up the ranks, reaching Yokozuna just as Hakuho retired, winning a total of 10 titles during his career.

We’re used to wrestlers adopting a new name when they become coach and either borrow or purchase a piece of the Sumo Association, known as a kabu. As Yokozuna, Terunofuji will be able to do so for five years under his name as Yokozuna. When that five year period is over, he will need to have a kabu if he wants to remain with the association.

We have a number of recent examples, such as Hakuho acquiring the Miyagino kabu. Kakuryu famously came down to the wire as he tried to acquire a kabu. Kisenosato shifted a couple of times to get Nishonoseki. There are a couple of kabu names associated with Terunofuji’s career which are likely target kabu. The obvious one is Isegahama but that is not written in stone. What is written in stone is current Isegahama is required to retire in July when he reaches mandatory retirement age of 65. The complication is that Isegahama can stay on with the Kyokai as a “sanyo” advisor, with that name, until he’s 70.

So, we will find out in the next few months if Isegahama-oyakata intends for Terunofuji to inherit the Isegahama kabu and the heya. During the broadcast today, Murray mentioned another elder in the stable, Homarefuji. In the case it’s not the Yokozuna who should take over, Terunofuji also has a history with the Magaki-kabu, currently owned by former Ishiura. Regardless, this process will have time to play out with the Yokozuna’s five-year grace period.

Finally, there is the little complication regarding Miyagino and Magaki as they are currently under Isegahama. With Terunofuji’s sudden retirement, I wonder if that will accelerate the timeline for allowing Hakuho to re-establish Miyagino-beya.

Your links to the NHK videos are here: Juryo Part I & Part II, Makuuchi Part I & Part II.

In Juryo, Wakaikari defeated Hakuyozan, meaning we have a log jam of co-leaders with one loss. Ryuden, Shishi, Aonishiki, Oshoumi share the lead with the fore-mentioned Hakuyozan and Wakaikari. Earlier, Enho picked up his second win and down in maezumo, Hikarumusashi picked up his third win. Tenrose and Sunasaka had locked up their three wins yesterday.

Makuuchi Action

Kitanowaka (4-2) defeated Tokihayate (3-3). Both men grabbed on with matching left-hand inside, right-hand outside belt grips. However, Kitanowaka was able to overpower Tokihayate and quickly escorted him back over the edge. Yorikiri.

Kinbozan (5-0) defeated Kagayaki (1-4). Kinbozan’s brutal nodowa forced Kagayaki back to the bales. Kagayaki pivoted and relieved the pressure on his neck but Kinbozan followed and shoved him out. Tsukidashi.

Tamashoho (2-4) defeated Shonannoumi (2-4). Tamashoho plugged away with his tsuppari but Shonannoumi shoved him to the side, almost toppling Tamashoho over. When he recovered his balance, Tamashoho slipped left and pulled Shonannoumi forward. Hatakikomi.

Nishikifuji (3-3) defeated Kotoshoho (1-5). The two men traded tsuppari but Nishikifuji outlasted Kotoshoho and shoved him over the bales. Oshidashi.

Onokatsu (3-3) defeated Hakuoho (3-3). Onokatsu overpowered Hakuoho and drove him over the edge. Yorikiri.

Meisei (2-4) defeated Nishikigi (4-2). Meisei obliterated Nishikigi at the tachiai, acquired a double-inside morozashi, and drove him straight back and over the bales. Yorikiri.

Takerufuji (5-1) defeated Churanoumi (2-4). Takerufuji hit Churanoumi and grabbed Churanoumi’s belt with a right-hand outside grip. His left hand held onto Churanoumi’s trunk and held him high as he drove him back and over the edge. Yorikiri.

Oshoma (4-2) defeated Midorifuji (1-5). Midorifuji jumped early. No henka. After the tachiai it looked like they would settle into a grapple but Oshoma quickly came to his senses and shoved Midorifuji away. He drove Midorifuji back and then pulled, attempting a slapdown. Midorifuji maintained his balance but Oshoma followed up with another shove and knocked Midorifuji out. Oshidashi.

Takarafuji (2-4) defeated Tamawashi (5-1). Solid tachiai. As Tamawashi chugged forward, Takarafuji shifted left and pulled on Tamawashi’s left arm. Off-balance, Tamawashi stumbled forward. Takarafuji followed up and shoved Tamawashi out from behind. Okuridashi.

A sudden, quick NHK news break. We didn’t even get our usual currency update. Odd. I appreciate the brevity so, I’m certainly not complaining.

Takayasu (3-3) defeated Roga (0-2-4). Takayasu took the driver’s seat early, and shoved Roga back and out. Roga squeezed his right hand inside and knocked Takayasu’s arm away as he tried to get things going his way but Takayasu just kept moving forward and forced Roga out. Yorikiri.

Halftime

Of course, more news. And let’s wait to start the break after the dohyo has been cleared and when Endo and Ichiyamamoto are mounting the dohyo. This is a much longer update to discuss the very interesting topic of FujiTV. We’ll bring in an extra commentator. Yeah, we’re going to miss a bout or two. Andy starts eyeing his VPN…so sexy. Ah, we’re going back to sumo! Still no currency update…does that mean another news break to come wise NHK producer-san?

Endo (3-3) defeated Ichiyamamoto (4-2). Ichiyamamoto charged forward. Endo grabbed Ichiyamamoto’s arm and pulled back, slipping to the side. Ichiyamamoto stumbled forward over the bales. Hikiotoshi.

Chiyoshoma (6-0) defeated Mitakeumi (2-4). Chiyoshoma has been eating his Wheaties. He locked on with that powerful right hand outside and quickly threw the former Ozeki. Uwatenage.

Hiradoumi (2-4) defeated Ura (2-4). Hiradoumi charged forward early. Reset. Solid tachiai. Hiradoumi locked on with a left-hand outside grip, hoisted Ura and drove him back and slammed him out of the ring. Yorikiri.

Oho (6-0) defeated Tobizaru (4-2). A thrilling bout here. Oho was dominant with his power, consistently driving Tobizaru back with strong tsuppari. Tobizaru shifted and pivoted over, and over. Patient Oho kept pace and pursued without getting ahead of himself and without letting Tobizaru get any misdirection. Oshidashi.

Sanyaku

Wakatakakage (3-3) defeated Abi (4-2). Henka! Wakatakakage side steps and pulls Abi forward and down. I know some of you dislike Abi because of his occasional henka. I wonder if those folks cheer this henka as Abi getting his just-desserts or if you all think this move by Wakatakakage was a bit of a stinker. Hikiotoshi.

Takanosho (1-5) defeated Wakamotoharu (1-5). Wakamotoharu’s struggles continue. Wakamotoharu shoved Takanosho to the edge but Takanosho escaped to the right and forced Wakamotoharu to the edge. As Wakamotoharu pressed forward to give himself some space, Takanosho slipped to the side again and slapped Wakamotoharu down. Hatakikomi.

Kirishima (3-3) defeated Daieisho (4-2). Daieisho jumped early. Reset. Solid tachiai followed by trading of tsuppari. Kirishima blasted  Daieisho and forced him back. As Daieisho recovered pitched his weight forward, Kirishima slipped to his right and pulled Daieisho down. Hikiotoshi.

Hoshoryu (5-1) defeated Gonoyama (4-2). Hoshoryu shoved Gonoyama’s right shoulder as Gonoyama tried to blast him. That allowed Hoshoryu to get in behind, seize Gonoyama’s belt from the back and drive him out from behind. Okuridashi.

Atamifuji (2-4) defeated Kotozakura (1-5). Kotozakura settled in for a lean. Atamifuji wanted to get things going so he charged forward. Kotozakura tried to react at the edge but Atamifuji kept up the pressure. Shimpan’s hand went up that Kotozakura touched out. Atamifuji walked him out. Gunbai Atamifuji. What the hell was Kotozakura thinking? What the hell are the shimpan thinking? Mono-ii? Rematch! The shimpan was red in the face, clearly embarrassed. Gotta feel for the guy. Anyway, the show carries on. After the tachiai, Atamifuji locked onto Kotozakura’s right arm and charged forward. Atamifuji forced Kotozakura over and won this bout again. Will Kotozakura go kyujo? Kimedashi.

Onosato (3-3) defeated Shodai (2-4). Shodai tried to pivot and throw Onosato at the edge. Onosato was ready for Shodai’s move and adjusted his attack so he shifted right and shoved Shodai over the edge. Yorikiri.

Wrap-up

The flub by the shimpan was not on my bingo card. Neither was NHK’s double news break. Terunofuji’s out of action for a matter of hours and the show goes to pot. This was a hilarious day of miscues. As karma for missing the thrilling Endo bout, the action lasted past 6pm and pre-empted the news. Stick it to the man Shodai!

Many folks started dreaming of a Tamawashi zensho-yusho so, of course he lost. That’s the way it had to be once y’all jinxed it. You know how it works.

We have Oho leading Chiyoshoma and Kinbozan, undefeated in the top division. Oho will square up against Hoshoryu tomorrow in an enticing matchup. Chiyoshoma will take on one-legged Roga and Kinbozan will face Tokihayate. Who knows where this will go? I’m just along for the ride.

Hatsu 2025, Day Five: Terunofuji Sits Out

Andy Hatsu 2025, Hatsu Basho , , ,

The big news from the infirmary is no surprise. Terunofuji is kyujo after suffering his second loss yesterday on Day Four to Tobizaru. The grimace on his face when he landed below the dohyo.

The NHK videos for today are here: Juryo Part I & Part II, Makuuchi Part I & Part II.

Hakuyozan is the lone wrestler in Juryo with an undefeated record. Trailing him with one loss are a whole cast of characters, Ryuden, Shirokuma, Shishi, Aonishiki, Tomokaze, Oshoumi, Wakaikari, Kotoeiho and the entire ensemble of A Streetcar Named Desire. The field will be whittled down by the weekend. Wakaikari takes on Hkuyozan tomorrow.

Makuuchi Action

Sadanoumi (Juryo 3-2) defeated Tokihayate (3-2). Sadanoumi quickly obtained a left-hand inside, right-hand outside grip on Tokihayate’s belt and just overpowered the youngster. Sadanoumi pivoted and drove Tokihayate back and over the bales. Yorikiri.

Kitanowaka (3-2) defeated Tamashoho (1-4). Kitanowaka weathered Tamashoho’s torrent of tsuppari as if it was a gentle summer shower. After a failed slapdown attempt, Kitanowaka traded tsuppari for a while. Kitanowaka reached in with his left hand to grab Tamashoho’s belt, pivoted, and threw Tamashoho to the ground. Uwatenage.

Kagayaki (1-4) defeated Hakuoho (3-2). Kagayaki charged forward and pressed Hakuoho to the edge. Hakuoho countered along the bales and forced the action back toward the center of the ring. After Kagayaki caught his breath he charged forward again. Hakuoho tried to pivot and force Kagayaki down but he could not derail the shinkansen. Kagayaki forced him back to the bales and kept the pressure up until Hakuoho stepped out. Yorikiri.

Kinbozan (5-0) defeated Nishikifuji (2-3). Kinbozan chased Nishikifuji to the bales with his powerful tsuppari. Nishikifuji spun like a whirling dervish to try to escape. Kinbozan had enough of the wascly wabbit, locked onto Nishikifuji’s mawashi and escorted him over the edge. Yorikiri.

Nishikigi (4-1) defeated Onokatsu (2-3). Nishikigi overpowered the young Onokatsu with his left hand belt grip and forced him out, under the white tassel. Yorikiri.

Takerufuji (4-1) defeated Kotoshoho (1-4). After a brief oshi tussle, Takerufuji grabbed Kotoshoho with a strong left-hand outside belt grip and his right arm inside around Kotoshoho’s trunk. He stood Kotoshoho up and drove him back to the bales where Kotoshoho tried to counter. Takerufuji released his grip and shoved Kotoshoho to finish him off. He got enough of Kotoshoho to force him over the bales before he, himself, fell into the lap of Nishonoseki-oyakata. Oshidashi.

Shonannoumi (2-3) defeated Midorifuji (1-4). Midorifuji reached inside with both arms, his right arm snaked up around Shonannoumi’s shoulder. Shonannoumi stayed close and enveloped Midorifuji with both arms. His first attempt to swing Midorifuji out failed. But he collected his thoughts and caught his breath for a second try. This time he was successful as he forced Midorifuji out. Kimedashi.

Tamawashi (5-0) defeated Meisei (1-4). Tamawashi charged forward and Meisei tried to slide back to the bales. Meisei’s legs splayed out a little too far so Tamawashi brought his hand up over Meisei and shoved Meisei down to the ground. Hikiotoshi.

Oshoma (3-2) defeated Churanoumi (2-3). Oshoma kept Churanoumi away from his belt with effective pushing and shoving, never allowing Churanoumi to get inside. Oshoma slammed his left hand into Churanoumi’s head. As Churanoumi pressed his weight forward to resist, Oshoma slipped to the side and released with his left hand. Churanoumi stumbled forward and Oshoma pushed him down. Hikiotoshi.

Takarafuji (1-4) defeated Mitakeumi (2-3). Mitakeumi let Takarafuji drive him back to the edge where he tried to shift right along the bales to topple Takarafuji. Mitakeumi’s choice of a retreating attack was made in order to enrage Andy. “Move forward, man! Gahh!” Predictably, Uncle Takara wasn’t falling for it. He had a solid left-hand hold under Mitakeumi’s shoulder and secured a firm right-hand overarm belt grip. Mitakeumi retreated but Takarafuji forced him over the edge. Yorikiri.

Endo (2-3) defeated Roga (0-1-4). Endo’s left-hand ottsuke was the story here. Roga tried to reach in with his right-hand grip to mirror Endo’s. However, Endo pressed in hard and kept Roga off his belt. Roga let up to start plugging away with tsuppari and Endo reacted by driving forward and forcing Roga out. Yorikiri.

Halftime

Chiyoshoma (5-0) defeated Takayasu (2-3). Takayasu batted Chiyoshoma’s right hand away but Chiyoshoma still locked on with his left. Chiyoshoma spun and followed up by driving into Takayasu from the left side. This got Papa Bear suitably off-balance so Chiyoshoma pressed ahead and forced Takayasu out. Yorikiri.

Cue an ill-timed News Break during the Ichiyamamoto/Hiradoumi bout. I love the JME service but sometimes NHK decisions are just…GAH!

Ichiyamamoto (4-1) defeated Hiradoumi (1-4) On the replay we see that Ichiyamamoto did his thing and battered Hiradoumi, keeping him at bay and away from his belt. After several exchanges of tsuppari, Ichiyamamoto had worked Hiradoumi to the bales. Ichiyamamoto grabbed Hiradoumi and threw him to the ground. Sukuinage.

Tobizaru (4-1) defeated Ura (2-3). What did you expect from Ura and Tobizaru? Well, I figure we got exactly what we expected. Ura drove into Tobizaru and Tobizaru pulled. Tobizaru leapt at the edge, as is his wont, pressing Ura down. Gunbai Tobizaru. On the replay we saw Ura’s hand touching the ground as Tobizaru went flying. Decision upheld. Hatakikomi.

Kirishima (2-3) defeated Takanosho (0-5). Kirishima and Takanosho traded tsuppari. When Takanosho tired, Kishirima was able to press his way inside for a left-hand grip and he droe Takanosho out. Yorikiri.

Sanyaku

Daieisho (4-1) defeated Wakatakakage (2-3). Daieisho did his thing. Wakatakakage wanted to react at the edge, cycling to his left, but Daieisho took his time and gave him no opening. Tsukidashi.

Abi (4-1) defeated Wakamotoharu (1-4). Abi’s slap down failed so Abi followed up with his tsuppari and forced Wakamotoharu out. Oshidashi.

Shodai (2-3) defeated Kotozakura (1-4). Firm right-hand inside, left-hand outside. Kotozakura’s only attack seems to have been a counter at the edge as he tried to pivot and pull Shodai right. Shodai did not have any of it and drove Kotozakura to the floor. Yoritaoshi.

Gonoyama (4-1) fusen over Terunofuji (2-3-10).

Oho (5-0) defeated Onosato (2-3). Onosato charged forward. At the bales, Oho slipped to his left and Onosato stumbled forward and out. On the replay, you will notice that after a quick exchange of tsuppari, Oho slipped his left hand up behind Onosato’s shoulder, telegraphing a katasukashi attempt. As Onosato neared the edge, Oho executed his katasukashi. This pulled Onosato further forward but did not finish him. Oho only had to shove him out from behind to hand Onosato his third loss. Okuridashi.

Atamifuji (1-4) defeated Hoshoryu (4-1). Hoshoryu locked on with his right-hand inside and with a singlemindedness to use that belt grip, dragged Atamifuji to and fro. Atamifuji is a big boy, though, not so easy to throw. Atamifuji hung on for the ride, doing what he needed to keep his balance and avoid the edge. He also had his own left hand belt grip to counter Hoshoryu’s. He wisely released the belt grip to wrap up Hoshoryu’s right arm. Right arm secured, he rotated and flung Hoshoryu to the floor with a rough kotenage.

Satonofuji yumitorishiki.

Wrap-up

Back to the days of wholesale Ozeki losses and Yokozuna kyujo. 懐かしい。

Now that we have Day Five in the books, I want to look back at Wakamotoharu’s performance in particular. With all of the chatter about the dual-Yokozuna promotion chance, before the basho started Patricia Dobashi raised the topic of possible Ozeki promotion for Wakamotoharu that seemed to be overlooked, over on Blue Sky. His previous two tournaments had been fairly strong performances: 11-4 at M3 and 10-5 at K1. Surely, 11+10+12 = the magic 33, no?

There is a reason no Ozeki-run was ever mentioned. It would have taken a spectacular performance from Wakamotoharu to force such a discussion, something that he has never displayed. Yes, Tochinoshin was promoted with a run that started at M3…but that was a 14-1 yusho and a run that totaled a stonking 37 wins (14-10-13)! Before that, Terunofuji’s first promotion run started with 8-7 at M2…but what followed was 13-2 Jun-yusho and 12-3 yusho – both at the rank of Sekiwake.

In neither case were either wrestler ranked Komusubi in their runs. They both went straight from Maegashira to Sekiwake and had two strong performances at that rank before promotion. That is probably a minor point but thanks to the SumoDB, I did find one promotion case since 1958 which followed an M-K-S-O pattern: Tochihikari in 1962. Meanwhile, there are a number of cases which followed the M-S-S-O pattern: Tochinoshin, Terunofuji, Kitao, Asashio, Kaiketsu, and Yutakayama. Personally, I do not start thinking about Ozeki promotions until the wrestler is in their second Sekiwake tournament — and not if they squeak by with an 8-7 or 9-6.

So, while it is possible that Wakamotoharu was on a shadow Ozeki-run, that would have required something much more impressive than 12-wins. Maybe if those 12-wins came with a yusho attached? Regardless, here we are on Day 5 and he suffered his fourth loss to Abi. He would need to turn things around and basically win out if he wants this tournament to count in an promotion run come even in March or May…forget about this tournament.

Getting my mind back out of the clouds and pipe-dreams of promotion races, we see that Kotozakura’s hopes are dead and buried and after Hoshoryu’s loss today, his own promotion chances are likely dashed…or at least on life support. The way he cradled his arm after that kotenage, I have a feeling that he will be happy to end this tournament with a kachi-koshi. Unfortunately, Onosato and Kotozakura would both be happy with a kachi-koshi on senshuraku, as well.

This tournament is shaping up to be a real wake-up call for Onosato while it’s shaping up to be a breakout tournament for Oho. And today’s loss to Shodai should be a splash of cold water into the face of Kotozakura. Hopefully he will wake up. He has not demonstrated much offense this tournament, at all, seemingly too reliant on counter attacks at the edge which have not materialized.

It’s a bit funny that at the start of this tournament we had such high hopes for our healthy, powerful Ozeki, two of whom were on rope runs…all completely dashed by Day Five.

Oh, yeah, and somehow Sir Oho leads our Monty Python-esque squad with Sir Chiyoshoma, Sir Tamawashi, and Sir Kinbozan as they seek the Holy Grail. I’m having fun and can’t wait to see what Holy Hand Grenade gets thrown on Day Six. (You know Shodai’s the rabbit in my metaphor.) How about y’all?

Sir Kinbozan will face a rusted shinkansen (Kagayaki), Sir Tamawashi will take on the leaky Takarabune, and Sir Chiyoshoma will wade into battle with the Sacred Seas (Mitakeumi). This makes all three heavy favorites to move to 6-0. Sir Oho will have a bigger challenge against the Flying Monkey.