Tokyo July Basho

One of a kind July basho held in Tokyo due to COVID-19

Tokyo July Basho Day 7 Preview

Bruce H Abi (阿炎), Aoiyama, Asanoyama (朝乃山), Chiyomaru, Chiyotairyū (千代大龍), Daieisho (大栄翔), Endo (遠藤), Enho, Hakuho (白鵬), Hokutōfuji (北勝富士), Ikioi (勢), Ishiura (石浦), Kagayaki (輝), Kaisei (魁聖), Kakuryu (鶴竜), Kiribayama (霧馬山), Kotoeko, Kotonowaka, Kotoshogiku (琴奨菊), Kotoshoho, Kotoyuki, Mitakeumi(御嶽海), Myogiryu (妙義龍), Nishikigi, Okinoumi (隠岐の海), Ryuden (竜電), Sadanoumi (佐田の海), Shimanoumi, Shohozan, Shōdai (正代直也), Takakeishō (貴景勝), Takanosho, Takarafuji (宝富士), Takayasu (高安), Tamawashi (玉鷲), Terunofuji (照ノ富士), Terutsuyoshi, Tochinoshin (栃ノ心), Tokushoryu, Tokyo July Basho, Wakatakakage, Yutakayama, Ōnoshō (阿武咲)

We head into the middle weekend of this Tokyo July basho, and I have to say I am completely thrilled by the fact we are already down to three 6-0 rikishi, each of which has prior yusho experience, and each of which could reasonably take the cup. Of course if you have Hakuho 6-0 on day 7, he has to be the favorite to win it. With Kakuryu out of the tournament, the final match of the basho will likely be against Takakeisho, which given his kadoban status might just decide if he can keep his rank. Let’s hope it does not come to that.

Close behind is a whole crew at 5 wins, and they represent some great contenders. I not with some joy that Terunofuji is hanging tough, 1 loss behind the leaders. But Shodai? Shodai! He looks like he has decided that the Ozeki promotion lanes are still open, and he is going to push Mitakeumi out of the way and take the next slot. Frankly given his sumo thus far, it’s not out of the question that by the end of the year he could get himself in position to begin a try for 33. While many think I hate the guy, it was only disappointment that he seemed at times to lose focus, get sloppy and let sumo happen rather than dominating his matches. I know he has come under Kakuryu’s tutelage, and I think perhaps that may be helping him.

What We Are Watching Day 7

Kyokushuho vs Chiyomaru – Juryo visitor Kyokushuho comes up to have his with with winless Chiyomaru. The “round one” has been having a terrible start to the basho, and it would be a real shame for him to exit Sunday already make-koshi. I hope he can find a reserve of Genki and make a stand. Sadly Kyokushuho holds a 9-4 career advantage over the man in green.

Terunofuji vs Wakatakakage – Wakatakakage won their only prior match, but right now Terunofuji seems to be focused, hard and driven. His body is nothing like it was on his first debut into the top division, but I see the same intensity and mental toughness that he can bring to sumo when he tries. The worry is that he might lose his fighting spirit, and get discouraged. Stay strong Kaiju!

Kotoshogiku vs Nishikigi – Kotoshogiku is fighting well so far, but his body sometimes starts to give him pain and worry in the second week. Drawbacks of being old and getting into fights for a living. The rapid attack chest to chest sumo from Kotoshogiku does play well into Nishikigi’s preferred attack plan, and I think this has the makings of a very good match.

Sadanoumi vs Kotoyuki – Kotoyuki managed to lose his sumo somewhere about 3 weeks ago, and he has had his tsukebito out looking high and low for it. Its easy to spot, as it looks like an adorable stuffed penguin, but smells of curry. If you see it, please do let someone know, as I am sure he is eager to have it back. Until then, he’s little more than geiko ballast for the opponent of the day, And that’s speed fighter Sadanoumi on day 7.

Kotoeko vs Tochinoshin – I had to check a few times, but yes – first time match between these two! Color me happy that Tochinoshin is well ahead of kachi-koshi right now, and we are far enough into the basho that I can say the extended break seems to have helped that damaged knee repair at least some. Fans of the man who has the strength of a bear, which has the strength of two bears are rejoicing.

Shimanoumi vs Kotoshoho – Is Kotoshoho just having a great first top division basho? Or is he some kind of next-generation steamroller that is crushing everything he can? Of course we will need to wait for the fall to find out more, but he certainly seems to be loading up one of the much lauded double-digit debuts served with a sansho garnish. Shimanoumi has looked completely discombobulated this tournament. I think it’s beyond what I would refer to as “ring rust”

Takayasu vs Myogiryu – This match is, to me, the one to watch in the first half. You have former Ozeki Takayasu who is still struggling to execute his sumo up against another veteran in Myogiryu who seems to be on a bit of a hot streak. Myogiryu holds a 12-9 career advantage, but Takayasu seems highly motivated, and just healthy enough to put some effort into his sumo. But I have notice that every single opponent throws some kind of attack against that injured left elbow. I know its part of the sport, but come on!

Kaisei vs Kotonowaka – Kaisei is only 2-4, but rather than his lumbering and lethargic self, he has put some effort, movement and power into his sumo this tournament. It would make me very happy for him to find a road to 8 wins and leave this odd July basho with a kachi-koshi. His career record with Kotonowaka is 1-1, and I am looking for speed and mobility to have problems with Kaisei’s Newtonian sumo.

Shohozan vs Ikioi – A pair of grizzle veterans who somehow get onto the dohyo every day and fight it out. What keeps them going? Aside from the gallons of chanko, vast oceans of beer and grim determination? I am going to guess their love of sumo. So keep in mind, what you see today on the dohyo between these two today, it’s an expression of love.

Chiyotairyu vs Tokushoryu – What would it look like if two camper trailers suddenly decided to do battle? What if you hooked one to a piece of earth moving equipment and another to a Tesla model S? Chiyotairyu has shown some of his better sumo early on, but like Tokushoryu has managed no better than a 3-3 record. Chiyotairyu holds a distinct 7-4 advantage in the series.

Ishiura vs Ryuden – A battle of disappointing sumo, both of these long serving top divisions mainstays is having a crummy start to this tournament. I would like to think that Ishiura could have continued his good sumo from March, but I would count him (heck, Ryuden too) as a rikishi who is hampered by lack of adequate prep before the basho. With any luck the sumo kyokai will take this into account leading up to Aki, and make sure that the kanban rikishi have ample opportunity to hone their sumo prior to shonichi in September.

Enho vs Tamawashi – Enho has twice gotten knocked back into a squat that was a prelude to a loss, and frankly he is not really doing much in the way of good sumo right now. This is his first match against master basher Tamawashi, who appears to have enjoyed a great many of his baking projects during the government mandated isolation period. This is their first ever match, and I am just hoping Enho comes through uninjured.

Terutsuyoshi vs Hokutofuji – Both of these rikishi are struggling as well. From Maegashira 5, I expected Hokutofuji to dominate most of his matches, and re-assert his position in the joi-jin for September. But I now have my doubts, as he seems to lack the fire, the blistering tachiai and the “oh my god” crazy offense that has been the hallmark of his sumo. Hokutofuji won their only prior match, so maybe he can end the day at 5-2.

Takanosho vs Onosho – Tachiai readers know I am a fan of the red tadpole, Onosho. But right now he is not just battling Takanosho, his fighting spirit is all but extinguished. I try to keep in mind that Onosho tends to suffer from ring rust, and tends to be very streaky. I would be delighted if he could turn things around from a 0-6 start. But more likely, Takanosho will catch him too far forward over his toes and put his face in the clay.

Endo vs Yutakayama – Also in the screaming “WTF” category is the original head of the Freshmen, Yutakayama, who has a stinging 0-6 start. If its any consolation, he is facing Endo who is almost as big a mess as “big unit”, Yutakayama, whom I fear is in for a day 8 make-koshi.

Daieisho vs Okinoumi – Although he is only at 3-3, I have been delightfully surprised by the quality and intensity of Okinoumi’s sumo this July. In this all Komusubi battle, its advantage Okinoumi as his sumo looks better this tournament than Daieisho’s and he holds a 10-5 career advantage.

Abi vs Mitakeumi – I want to see Mitakeumi continue to just dominate every match this tournament. He came out the winner in the mock Natsu basho in May, and he looks sharp, strong and focused right now. Abi is holding on to a middle of the road 3-3 record now, but is hardly looking a likely candidate for a kachi-koshi. I am hoping for at least 10 wins for original tadpole.

Shodai vs Aoiyama – Aoiyama will try to stand Shodai up, and slap him down. I am looking for Shodai to uncork some cartoon sumo similar to his day 6 looney toon ballet against Endo. Will Big Dan’s V-Twin be enough to overcome whatever Shodai comes up with at the last minute?

Takarafuji vs Asanoyama – Come on, you are pulling for an Asanoyama yusho. You know you want one. First of a matching pair needed for a new rope to be woven in September? Yeah, too soon with the Boss still owning the dohyo and dispatching all challengers. But that day may yet come. I expect him to try to limit Takarafuji’s effort to extend the match. He holds a 6-1 career advantage.

Takakeisho vs Kagayaki – The kadoban Ozeki, Takakeisho the grand tadpole, is not looking genki, much as what happened in the May basho simulation. Kiribayama really took control of the day 6 match, and left the senior Ozeki powerless to do much but lose. Kagayaki has a 4-1 career advantage over Takakeisho, and I think the low, deliberate and fundamentals driven sumo may disrupt any thrusting offense that Takakeisho may try to muster today. Please, oh Great Sumo Cat of the Kokugikan, don’t let it come down to a 7-7 day 15 battle against Hakuho….

Hakuho vs Kiribayama – Hey, Kiribayama! Welcome to the big leagues. Please enjoy your flying lesson. The clay facial is a free perk of a match against Hakuho.

Tokyo July Basho Day 6 Highlights

Andy Abi (阿炎), Aoiyama, Asanoyama (朝乃山), Chiyomaru, Chiyotairyū (千代大龍), Daieisho (大栄翔), Endo (遠藤), Enho, Hakuho (白鵬), Hokutōfuji (北勝富士), Ikioi (勢), Ishiura (石浦), Kagayaki (輝), Kaisei (魁聖), Kakuryu (鶴竜), Kiribayama (霧馬山), Kotoeko, Kotonowaka, Kotoshogiku (琴奨菊), Kotoshoho, Kotoyuki, Mitakeumi(御嶽海), Myogiryu (妙義龍), Nishikigi, Okinoumi (隠岐の海), Ryuden (竜電), Sadanoumi (佐田の海), Shimanoumi, Shohozan, Shōdai (正代直也), Takakeishō (貴景勝), Takanosho, Takarafuji (宝富士), Takayasu (高安), Tamawashi (玉鷲), Terunofuji (照ノ富士), Terutsuyoshi, Tochinoshin (栃ノ心), Tokushoryu, Tokyo July Basho, Wakatakakage, Yutakayama, Ōnoshō (阿武咲) , , ,

One third of the way through the tournament is really far too early to start comparing this tournament to the performance of the simulation tournament. We’ll do that much later on as we see what it got right versus where there’s need for improvement. What matters to me at this point is that this tournament is contrasted from that one by featuring such strong starts from our leadership.

In the mock basho all sanyaku stumbled out of the gates early to chase a rank-and-filer, in sole ownership of the lead after Day 5. We start Day 6 of this tournament with three sanyaku undefeated. The joi-jin took a bath in the simulation and they’re getting pummeled in real life. But crucially, they’re not picking off as many big wins so early on. They’re definitely getting a few but the meat grinder is in fine form.

For me, this old-school, dominant Hakuho paired with the youth and promise of Asanoyama at the top of the table is a whole mood (as the kids are fond of saying lately). Confidence, patience, strength, authority…it just feeds my optimism for where we are now versus where we were at this point in May. And as we see on Day 6, my optimism has reason to grow by the end of the day.

Highlight Matches

Azumaryu defeated Nishikigi (2-4): Nishikigi wrapped up Azumaryu and started him moving backwards with both arms outside Azumaryu’s arms. However, he wore himself out trying to lift the Juryo visitor, Terunofuji-style, over the bales. Azumaryu took over and pushed Nishikigi out. Yorikiri.

Terunofuji (5-1) defeated Kotoshoho (5-1): Kotoshoho began with a slight advantage of position after the tachiai but Terunofuji’s size and strength reigned this bout. Kotoshoho allowed Terunofuji to get a mirror belt-grip and that was a huge mistake. As Takayasu showed, use all your might to keep him off. From here Terunofuji took over the bout and quickly worked Kotoshoho back and out. Yorikiri.

Takayasu (4-2) defeated Kotoyuki (1-5): Kotoyuki tried a few slaps and a nodowa at the tachiai, and twisted around for a change of direction but all attempts in the opening volley had no effect on Takayasu. With one shove, Takayasu demonstrated who was boss, forcing Kotoyuki out. Oshidashi.

Kotonowaka (4-2) defeated Chiyomaru (0-6): Chartreuse vs Emerald. Chiyomaru gave it his all, but like Kotoyuki before him, all attempts had no impact. Kotonowaka walked Chiyomaru out easily. Oshidashi.

Wakatakakage (3-3) defeated Sadanoumi (2-4): Henka! Sadanoumi fell for it. Wakatakakage pushed down with both hands on Sadanoumi’s back and Sadanoumi fell to the clay. Hatakikomi.

Shohozan (1-5) defeated Kotoeko (4-2): Shohozan landed a weak harite slap that served to piss off Kotoeko. Kotoeko’s slaps and thrusts took over the bout, forcing Shohozan into retreat, circling ‘round and ‘round. Kotoeko was too aggressive, though, as Shohozan needed only one sidestep to push Kotoeko out. Oshi—wha..? Hatakikomi? Huh.

Tochinoshin (4-2) defeated Kotoshogiku (4-2): Kotoshogiku IS keeping his knees straight at what amounts to an awkward tachiai. The first attempt was out of sync, so matta… Ross called the henka at the next tachiai, as Kotoshogiku rolls across the dohyo… but mada matta! Tochinoshin, pissed at the gyoji more than anything, lands his left-hand overarm grip after a solid tachiai, and worked Koshogiku to the edge. Rather than try to power the former ozeki over the edge, Tochinoshin wisely chose to throw him back to the center of the ring. Uwatenage.

Tamawashi (5-1) defeated Myogiryu (5-1): Matta fest today. Tamawashi started things out way early. Once they got going for real, Tamawashi seemed interested to see what Myogiryu would be able to do and let Myogiryu try some thrusts but not enough to move Tamawashi back. Tamawashi decided it was time to act and shoved Myogiryu back. Another shove and Myogiryu was out. Surprise, surprise, Oshidashi.

Shimanoumi (2-4) defeated Ikioi (2-4): Ikioi was determined to keep Shimanoumi at arms length, pushing his opponent’s arms. He tried a pull but a balanced Shimanoumi followed well, stayed upright, pushing Ikioi out Oshi—Yorikiri? Okay.

Ishiura (2-4) defeated Kaisei (2-4): I thought the matta foretold a henka but I was wrong. Ishiura hit Kaisei head on! Both men settled at the center, fighting for belt grips. Ishiura secured a left hand grip and with a little sidestep pulled Kaisei forward. This is the Ishiura of the simulation. Unafraid of bigger guys, getting things done with skill and strength rather than games. Please bring it like this more often. Shitatedashinage.

Enho (3-3) defeated Chiyotairyu (3-3): A little submarine work from Enho at the tachiai diverted Chiyotairyu to the side. With the larger man off balance, Enho tugged on Chiyotairyu’s belt to bring him to the floor. Whattaya know? The Miyagino beya brings us twin Shitatedashinage.

Halftime

Ryuden (2-4) defeated Abi (3-3): Abi’s slaps and pull attempts forced Ryuden into chase mode. Ryuden kept his balance at the pull so Abi drove forward again, slapping and keeping Ryuden upright but this time the pull never came. Instead Ryuden ducked to the side and Abi fell in a heap on the floor. Tsukiotoshi.

Tokushoryu (3-3) defeated Hokutofuji (4-2): Hokutofuji bulled forward with his head down. Tokushoryu moved to the side to let Hokutofuji pass. With both hands on Hokutofuji’s back, Tokushoryu shoved Hokutofuji down onto the tawara. Hataki— Tsukiotoshi.

Aoiyama (3-3) defeated Terutsuyoshi (2-4): After a solid tachiai and a few exchanges of slaps and shoves, Terutsuyoshi tried a change of direction and Aoiyama almost fell for it. But as the man mountain threw his arms out to maintain his balance, his right arm connected with Terutsuyoshi’s head. Aoiyama kept Terutsuyoshi in front of him and wrangled him out. Tsukidashi.

Kagayaki (3-3) defeated Yutakayama (0-6): Kagayaki was all business today. Solid tachiai. Poise, control, forward movement…Yutakayama had no chance. Oshidashi.

Sanyaku

Takanosho (3-3) defeated Daieisho (3-3): A solid tachiai from both men but Takanosho shifted to the right and pushed Daieisho past. Daieisho lost his balance while trying to turn around to meet Takanosho, landing on his butt. Oshitaoshi.

Shodai (5-1) defeated Endo (1-5): A strong tachiai and some off-balance flailing sumo from Shodai as Endo grabbed the left arm, pulling him forward to the bales. Shodai slipped his left arm in and tried the same tightrope walk throw from yesterday but he was too out of control. Endo tried a trip but missed. As Shodai reclaimed his arm, Endo lost his balance. This gave Shodai an opportunity to wheel back around and pushed Endo out. Oshidashi.

Mitakeumi (6-0) defeated Okinoumi (3-3): A solid tachiai from Okinoumi forced Mitakeumi half-way to the bales but it was not enough. Try as he might, Mitakeumi would not move back and farther. Mitakeumi mustered his strength and drove Okinoumi back to the edge. A final shove back to the center of the ring brought Okinoumi to the dirt. Tsukiotoshi.

Kiribayama (2-4) defeated Takakeisho (4-2): Takakeisho started off with some standard thrusting. The agile Kiribayama lept and got his hands up to the back of Takakeisho’s head, shoving down forcefully. This negated Takakeisho’s advantage as the Ozeki fought to maintain his balance. Kiribayama got his hands into the mawashi and drove Takakeisho backwards and out. Yorikiri.

Asanoyama (6-0) defeated Onosho (0-6): Onosho forced Asanoyama’s head back but it was not enough to get the Ozeki moving backwards. Instead, he quickly secured an left-overarm belt grab, and used his superior footwork to usher Onosho over the edge. Yorikiri.

Hakuho (6-0) defeated Takarafuji (2-4): A straightforward win from the master. Strong tachiai and he drives Takarafuji back. Takarafuji tries to move left along the edge but the master kept him in front and continued the forward pressure until Takarafuji stepped over the bales. Yorikiri.

Tokyo July Basho Day 6 Preview

Timothée Heinz Tokyo July Basho

Five men are still undefeated after the same number of days : Kotoshoho, Myogiryu, Mitakeumi, Asanoyama and Hakuho. Will a few san’yaku heads unexpectedly fall tomorrow ?

Nishikigi v Azumaryu. Both rikishi need to increase their record the different reasons: Nishikigi has not much room to avoid demotion, being ranked maegashira 16, while Azumaryu will try to enforce yet another makuuchi promotion. That should be an interesting yotsu battle, their matchups being even at 4-4.

Kotoshoho v Terunofuji. Kotoshoho’s dream makuuchi debut goes on, as he has placed his name on the leaderboard, alongside some famous names. Can he continue to deliver, this time against the former ozeki ? He has already faced the Mongolian two times, and failed to defeat him.

Takayasu v Kotoyuki. Takayasu’s win against Terunofuji was quite impressive. The former ozeki produced an efficient strategy, and surely knows how to abort Kotoyuki’s furious thrusts. Another win is on the cards here, as Kotoyuki looks far from his best.

Chiyomaru v Kotonowaka. After having succumbed to Myogiryu’s fine form, Kotonowaka will now have to make sure Chiyomaru does not regain his own. If the youngster can get a grip on Chiyomaru’s mawashi, he should be able to add a fourth win tomorrow.

Sadanoumi v Wakatakakage. After three worrying days, Wakatakakage is finally producing more energetic sumo, and has piled up a couple wins. Sadanoumi likes to fight on the mawashi, but will have to abort the pixie’s low thrusts that will aim to send him out of the dohyo.

Kotoeko v Shohozan. Kotoeko is having a good tournament at 4-1. Despite being quite light, he likes to work on the mawashi, having beaten ones like Nishikigi and Sadanoumi by yorikiri. He will try to do the same against Shohozan, whose ochi zumo is currently off target: the Fukuoka born is yet to win this basho.

Kotoshogiku v Tochinoshin. An interesting battle between two former ozeki. If their body condition is far from ideal, they are showing quite some spirit this basho. The odds tend to favour the Fukuoka born, who shows impressive displays with a 4-1 record, and has won most of their numerous previous meetings : 25 to 10.

Tamawashi v Myogiryu. Myogiryu’s form is excellent, and he may well be the surprise of the tournament. Tomorrow’s bout against Tamawashi should be a fierce struggle between two pushers. Tamawashi is back on track after yesterday’s loss, he is one off the pace and leads their matchups 8-4.

Shimanoumi v Ikioi. Ikioi is having ups and downs during this basho. He defeated Kaisei today with a nice shitatenage, and will look to profit from Shimanoumi’s poor form. He has failed to defeat him during their two previous bouts, however.

Ishiura v Kaisei. The Miyagino rikishi is having one of those ugly tournaments, which eventually drove him back to juryo in the past. Having tried – and failed – to pull a henka today, he will unfortunately have to face Kaisei’s strength. Unless he finds a way to surprise his opponent, he may well visit the dohyo limits tomorrow as well.

Enho v Chiyotairyu. Enho will look to react more rapidly at the tachi-ai than today – there was basically no contest. If he wants to succeed this time, he could for example try the ashitori weapon. He might also take advantage of the fact that Chiyotairyu never faced his tricks before.

Abi v Ryuden. The two newcomers from January 2018 will face each other for the eight time, Abi having a comfortable 5-2 lead in their matchups. After a slow start this basho, Abi found his rhythm and showed appreciable energy in his last wins. He may well add a sixth victory against Ryuden who, at 1-4, has not impressed at all so far.

Tokushoryu v Hokutofuji. Hokutofuji is having a good basho so far : he’s 4-1, having just destroyed poor Enho. Tokushoryu’s 2-3 record is not too catastrophic, but he might succumb to his energetic opponent tomorrow.

Terutsuyoshi v Aoiyama. The Isegahama man lost his last bout in quite poor fashion, and he will have to find something more efficient against Aoiyama. He might have some ideas though, having defeated the Bulgarian in each of their two last meetings.

Kagayaki v Yutakayama. Yutakayama is still winless. If the top maegashira ranks are tough, he produced, however, interesting displays during his bouts. He will look to benefit from Kagayaki’s indifferent record so far, and finally get his shonichi.

Daieisho v Takanosho. After a tough start in the joi, Takanosho is starting to get his attacks on target, having won twice during the last three days. If he hopes for an ochi battle, he will be provided fierce competition with Daieisho, the komusubi, a dangerous pusher thruster.

Shodai v Endo. The surprise defeat to Takanosho did not seem to alter Shodai’s form, as the sekiwake won twice in a row after that loss. I’m expecting him to avoid Endo’s favorite mawashi battle and push him out of the dohyo. Endo’s current form does not inspire better fortunes.

Okinoumi v Mitakeumi. Okinoumi’s solid yotsu sumo style is not the best weapon to stop Mitakeumi’s fine run. The sekiwake’s sumo is strong and varied. Okinoumi knows how to beat him, though, leading their matchups 3-2.

Takakeisho v Kiribayama. Kiribayama’s record has worsened today, but he produced a really good fight against Asanoyama. He’ll need even more, however, in order to move the imposing Takakeisho. Kiribayama will have to find a recipe against the ozeki’s strong pushes and thrusts.

Onosho v Asanoyama. The difference between Onosho’s last two fights against Hakuho is painful to observe. Asanoyama will furthermore surely stay alert, as his last opponents provided dangerous opposition. Worringly for Onosho, the ozeki has found the necessary ressources to turn tables when needed.

Hakuho v Takarafuji.Takarafuji’s no-nonsense sumo looks like the ideal victim to Hakuho’s fury. The yokozuna produced some convincing victories so far, but also had to survive a few scares, which might give hope to Takarafuji.

Tokyo July Basho Day 5 Highlights

Andy Abi (阿炎), Aoiyama, Asanoyama (朝乃山), Chiyomaru, Chiyotairyū (千代大龍), Daieisho (大栄翔), Endo (遠藤), Enho, Hakuho (白鵬), Hokutōfuji (北勝富士), Ikioi (勢), Ishiura (石浦), Kagayaki (輝), Kaisei (魁聖), Kakuryu (鶴竜), Kiribayama (霧馬山), Kotoeko, Kotonowaka, Kotoshogiku (琴奨菊), Kotoshoho, Kotoyuki, Mitakeumi(御嶽海), Myogiryu (妙義龍), Nishikigi, Okinoumi (隠岐の海), Ryuden (竜電), Sadanoumi (佐田の海), Shimanoumi, Shohozan, Shōdai (正代直也), Takakeishō (貴景勝), Takanosho, Takarafuji (宝富士), Takayasu (高安), Tamawashi (玉鷲), Terunofuji (照ノ富士), Terutsuyoshi, Tochinoshin (栃ノ心), Tokushoryu, Tokyo July Basho, Wakatakakage, Yutakayama, Ōnoshō (阿武咲) , , , , ,

We’ve had some nerves and sloppy sumo to start the tournament but we’ve also had some great sumo as four yusho winners lead the pack coming into Day 5. By now at the end of Act One, that rust should be brushed away. Asanoyama has proven to be stainless steel and Hakuho must have been bathing in WD-40 since March because he’s dominant and he’s winning without the tricks, dame-oshi or dirty play that had earned him a bit of derision over the past year. These two are at the top of the heap and the top of their game. Will they close out the first third of the tournament still in the lead? This day is one to stay until the end, that’s for sure.

Highlight Matches

Kotoeko (4-1) defeated Tobizaru: The flying monkey visits from Juryo to take on Kotoeko. A bit too nervous and outmatched by Kotoeko, who’s on a hot streak. Kotoeko got under his armpits and looked to drive him back and out. Tobizaru wriggled free from Kotoeko’s grip but Kotoeko was able to use his right arm to execute a throw.  Sukuinage.

Nishikigi (2-3) defeated Chiyomaru (0-5): Winless Chiyomaru got the advantage on the initial charge, thrusting Nishikigi back to the edge. The tawara gave Nishikigi the resistance he needed and Chiyomaru tried a pull but Nishikigi used the change in direction to charge forward and force Chiyomaru out. Oshidashi.

Wakatakakage (2-3) defeated Kotoyuki (1-4): Wakatakakage defeated Kotoyuki at his own game. A strong charge at the outset earned the youngster superior position in the center of the dohyo. He kept up the pressure on Kotoyuki who countered with his own thrusts but Kotoyuki was never able to get enough power in those thrusts to back Wakatakakage out. Instead, Wakatakakage wore out the penguin and pushed him out. Oshidashi.

Takayasu (3-2) defeated Terunofuji (4-1): Yesterday, Takayasu faced Kotoshogiku. Today, the former Ozeki got another former Ozeki in Terunofuji and again came out victorious. At the charge, Terunofuji tried reaching in for that belt but Takayasu fought against it and shoved Terunofuji away. Takayasu re-engaged, securing both hands on Terunofuji’s belt. While Terunofuji tried to get purchase with his left hand, Takayasu began backing him up until he was fully stood against the tawara. Terunofuji recognized that he was done and stepped out. Yorikiri.

Kotoshoho (5-0) defeated Shohozan (0-5): Shohozan baited Kotoshoho into a false start. Shohozan charged fiercely at the tachiai and added a slap for good measure. Kotoshoho was unphased, however. He pivoted and used Shohozan’s hard charging ways against him with a well-executed throw. Kotenage.

Tochinoshin (3-2) defeated Sadanoumi (2-3): Tochinoshin drove forward into Sadanoumi but Sadanoumi stayed composed, got a solid grip and started forcing the Georgian Giant back. Tochinoshin pivoted and brought the action to the edge of the ring where he grabbed Sadanoumi by the butt cheek and forced him over the edge. Tsukiotoshi.

Kotoshogiku (4-1) defeated Shimanoumi (1-4): A strong showing from Kotoshogiku today. A quick blast driving Shimanoumi back and wrapping him up. He attempted a throw which Shimanoumi resisted but some strong gabburi action got Shimanoumi stumbling backwards and out. Yoritaoshi.

Myogiryu (5-0) defeated Kotonowaka (3-2): Myogiryu charged forward, always the aggressor. He kept Kotonowaka at arms length, never allowing access to his mawashi and driving action. Kotonowaka briefly slipped to the side and had a chance but Myogiryu recovered at the edge, turned back around, and drove Kotonowaka back and out. Oshidashi.

Ikioi (2-3) defeated Kaisei (2-3): A slim Ikioi drove forward into Kaisei with both arms under his armpits. Kaisei resisted with his own grip but Ikioi charged again. At the edge it seemed Kaisei’s leg gave but the official call was an underarm throw but I couldn’t see what that right arm was doing. Anyone have the opposite view? Shitatenage.

Tamawashi (4-1) defeated Ishiura (1-4): Ishiura’s predictable henka attempt put him halfway toward the edge of the dohyo and Tamawashi was more than happy to give him a single shove out. Ishiura needs a new schtick. There are plenty of other successful pixies who aren’t afraid to bring the action to their opponent. Oshidashi.

Chiyotairyu (3-2) defeated Terutsuyoshi (2-3): What did I say about successful pixies? Chiyotairyu gave a beautiful demonstration of how the Non-henka is supposed to work. One hand securing the belt, the other hand on the top of aite’s head. A strong pull with that right hand, in this case, and Terutsuyoshi was whipped around and thrown down. Uwatenage.

Halftime

Hokutofuji (4-1) defeated Enho (2-3): Hokutofuji blasted Enho back at the tachiai. Enho seemed puzzled, not knowing how to attack. So Hokutofuji used that left oven mitt to decide for him. “Go back now.” He shoved Enho back to the tawara and down. Oshitaoshi.

Abi (3-2) defeated Tokushoryu (2-3): Classic Abi here. Right hand under the chin of Tokushoryu, forcing his head up and back. This gave Abi the clear advantage and he followed up with a convincing win, shoving Tokushoryu out quickly. Oshidashi.

Aoiyama (2-3) defeated Ryuden (1-4): Aoiyama with the advantage of a stronger tachiai, pushed Ryuden back to the straw bales. Ryuden tried his own shoves putting all of his might and weight into Aoiyama but getting no backward movement until…Aoiyama pulls beautifully and Ryuden rolls across the clay. Someone was asking about pulls after Takakeisho’s loss the other day. The timing is so crucial with a pull and Aoiyama timed it very well today. Hikiotoshi.

Takanosho (2-3) defeated Kagayaki (2-3): Kagayaki had the better force in the initial charge, moving forward strongly. Takanosho’s sidestep combined with Kagayaki’s slow recovery time allowed Takanosho to shift right and help Kagayaki out. Oshidashi.

Sanyaku

Daieisho (3-2) defeated Yutakayama (0-5): This was an entertaining slapfest. Daieisho with the slight advantage but both wrestlers landed several haymakers. Daieisho’s were more effective, keeping Yutakayama on the ropes with slaps to the chin and the throat. Yutakayama pitched forward to counter and Daieisho landed a perfect left on Yutakayama’s shoulder, sending him tumbling across the dohyo. Tsukiotoshi.

Mitakeumi (5-0) defeated Endo (1-4): A great tachiai from both men, a nice blast. Endo tried to shove Mitakeumi back…it almost looked like he was going to try an oshi battle but got confused. While he tried to sort things out, Mitakeumi moved forward through the golden boy. Another Oshidashi. Oshidashi Day here in Tokyo.

Shodai (4-1) defeated Okinoumi (3-2): The best tachiai of the day? A Shodai bout? Na… Shodai slipped that left arm under Okinoumi’s armpit and whatever Okinoumi was trying to do was utterly irrelevant. Shodai continued turning while Okinoumi hopped along, trying to stay up but eventually hopping over the bales. Okinoumi didn’t meet clay but it was a throw. Sukuinage.

Asanoyama (5-0) defeated Kiribayama (1-4): Kiribayama slid to the side and channeled Harumafuji with his continued pressure. He wanted the spin of death to end things quickly but Asanoyama persevered. Twisting and turning, Kiribayama kept up a vigorous attack. Asanoyama was always able to maintain his balance and his composure. He countered by bringing the action back to the center and wearing Kiribayama down. Eventually, Asanoyama struck forcing Kiribayama out. The best sumo from Kiribayama this week. Sadly, not enough against the ozeki. The effort from both men combine for the bout of the day, enthusiastically appreciated by the crowd. Yorikiri.

Takakeisho (4-1) defeated Takarafuji (2-3): Another strong tachiai as skin-on-skin echoes through the Kokugikan. Takakeisho kept up the thrusts as Takarafuji was on the defensive, shifting about. Takakeisho worked Takarafuji back and several times tried the pull down. It wasn’t until the fourth attempt that his right hand found the top of Takarafuji’s head and pulled him down. Hatakikomi.

Hakuho (5-0) defeated Onosho (0-5): Onosho jumped the gun and the two reset. Hakuho got under there with both hands on the belt immediately. As he charged back Onosho got some resistance at the edge. Hakuho wasn’t having any of it and used that belt grip to throw Onosho forward to his doom. Uwatedashinage.

To follow on with Tim’s kimarite of the day, I’d have to go with that forceful yorikiri from Asanoyama. I know, yorikiri is the most common and therefore the dullest choice of kimarite of the day in the 1000-year history of sumo…but here we are. I liked it. He held on in a great battle and won. Boring technique? Not at all. Oshidashi’s the boring one.