Yoshinofuji

Haru 2026: Day Two

Andy Haru 2026, Haru Basho ,

Day Two in Osaka. We have new reports from the infirmary. Many fans will be happy to hear that Onokatsu and Hakunofuji will sit out starting today. Onokatsu is kyujo because of his ankle. MaciekSumo noticed that Onokatsu received a concussion. He got knocked out by the clash of heads with Ichiyamamoto. He then suffered an ankle sprain as we saw his leg buckle awkwardly.

Hakunofuji aggravated the toe injury he received in January and will go kyujo, as well. The door is obviously open to both men if they decide to return to action.

NHK videos for today’s action are here. Look for this button to expand the videos:

Makuuchi Action

Fujiryoga (1-1) defeated Sadanoumi (1-1). Sadanoumi got in a good hit at the tachiai but Fujiryoga quickly rushed Sadanoumi out behind powerful tsuppari (thrusts). Fujiryoga picks up his first top division victory and a nice handful of kensho. As with Fujiseiun, I am sure there will be plenty more of those in the future. Fujishima beya is becoming quite the little powerhouse. Oshidashi.

Asahakuryu (1-1) defeated Kotoeiho (1-1). Asahakuryu launched out after Kotoeiho and attacked with tsuppari. Kotoeiho tried to use a slapdown counter attack as he retreated around the inside of the tawara but Asahakuryu chased him down and shoved him out. Oshidashi.

Mitakeumi (2-0) defeated Kinbozan (1-1). Like Fujiryoga and Asahakuryu, Kinbozan immediately attacked with strong tsuppari. Mitakeumi attempted to lull Kinbozan into a slapdown or thrust out victory, similar to Kotoeiho. When those attacks failed, he changed strategy, grabbed Kinbozan by his belt and drove him over the edge. Yorikiri.

Chiyoshoma (1-1) defeated Tobizaru (0-2). Chiyoshoma missed with his slapdown attack so he sprung forward to attack Tobizaru. Tobizaru tried his own slapdown but failed as he flew from the dohyo. Oshidashi.

Nishikifuji (2-0) defeated Fujiseiun (1-1). Both men locked on with left-hand inside belt grips. Both men tried to dislodge their opponent’s grips, as we saw in the Konishiki technique videos. Nishikifuji decided to latch on with his right-hand over-arm grip. This improved his leverage and allowed him to force Fujiseiun back and out. Our first real yotsu battle of the day was a good one. Yorikiri.

Asakoryu (2-0) defeated Shishi (1-1). Asakoryu shifted right and pulled Shishi forward with a slapdown attempt. Shishi tried to recover but Asakoryu followed up with a shove from the side. Oshidashi.

Asanoyama (1-1) defeated Oshoumi (0-2). Oshoumi had sold the slapdown the whole way but Asanoyama was able to stay on his feet long enough to shove Oshoumi out first. Oshidashi.

Gonoyama (2-0) defeated Tokihayate (1-1). Gonoyama forced Tokihayate out as Tokihayate tried a slapdown. Yorikiri.

Roga (1-1) defeated Tamawashi (0-2). Roga missed with his left hand mawashi grab. But as Tamawashi charged forward, Roga pulled right and pulled Tamawashi down. Gunbai Roga. No mono-ii. On review, Tamawashi clearly touched down before Roga. Hikiotoshi.

Ura (2-0) defeated Oshoma (1-1). Ura shoved Oshoma out with his hazu-oshi attack. Oshoma was unable to time an effective slapdown. Oshidashi.

Shodai (1-1) default win over Hakunofuji (0-2).

Halftime

Ichiyamamoto (2-0) defeated Abi (0-2). Ichiyamamoto quickly thrust Abi out. Abi had no forward power. Oshidashi.

Kotoshoho (2-0) default win over Onokatsu (0-2).

Hiradoumi (2-0) defeated Daieisho (0-2). Daieisho tried a quick slapdown but Hiradoumi drove him back and out. Oshidashi.

Takanosho (2-0) defeated Oho (0-2). Takanosho will have some awful tournaments. This does not appear to be one. Great fundamentals. Good footwork. He thrust forward into Oho and Oho tried to pull him down. Oho went straight backward and out. You all know how much I love that. We’ve seen a lot of gear boxes stuck in reverse today. Lots of Ls. It’s just basically a forfeit. Throwing in your chips and hoping that splashing the pot somehow takes out your opponent. Oshidashi.

Sanyaku

Churanoumi (1-1) defeated Kirishima (1-1). Kirishima launched out with tsuppari. He tried to side step with a slapdown but that created the opening Churanoumi needed. Churanoumi pressed forward, corralled the Sekiwake and shoved him out. That was not Ozeki-caliber offense. Oshidashi.

Takayasu (2-0) defeated Fujinokawa (0-2). Takayasu fought hard to get his left hand inside. Once he got it, he pressed forward and forced Fujinokawa close to the edge. Fujinokawa brought his right arm up and tried a kubinage but that allowed Takayasu ducked the attack and threw Fujinokawa with that left hand. Sukuinage.

Yoshinofuji (1-1) defeated Aonishiki (1-1). What a bout! Aonishiki landed his right-hand inside grip to Yoshinofuji’s left-hand outside. As Aonishiki tried to get his left-hand inside, too, Yoshinofuji suddenly and violently twisted backward, clockwise, away from that left hand. He spun like the Tasmanian devil, forcing Aonishiki’s back suddenly up against the edge. Yoshinofuji then forced his weight forward, crushing Aonishiki off the dohyo. Yoritaoshi.

Kotozakura (2-0) defeated Wakamotoharu (0-2). Kotozakura retreated and tried to slap Wakamotoharu down. But he shuffled left to stay in bounds. He re-engaged from better position and shoved Wakamotoharu out. Oshidashi.

Hoshoryu (2-0) defeated Wakatakakage (1-1). Hoshoryu tried a slapdown. Wakatakakage kept his footing but Hoshoryu slipped to the left, like Kotozakura against WMH, allowing him to push Wakatakakage out from behind. Okuridashi.

Atamifuji (1-1) defeated Onosato (0-2). Onosato got his right hand inside. Atamifuji couldn’t dislodge it so he wrapped his left hand over it. He got his right hand inside Onosato’s left shoulder, as well, and began to chug forward. Onosato was in trouble so in desperation he pulled back, freed himself of Atamifuji’s grip…and jumped clear of the dohyo. Gunbai Atamifuji. No mono-ii. Yorikiri.

Wrap-up

Well, well, well. Yoshinofuji is first to get dirt on Aonishiki in this tsuna-tori, “rope run,” and he did it very early in the tournament. How will Aonishiki react? Will it all fall apart in a string of losses, like an Onami brother on an Ozeki run? Or will he regroup and find himself in title contention next week? I’ll be tuned in tomorrow to watch!

Hoshoryu never looks strong when he pulls but it was effective today. He will need to muster all of his agility and skill tomorrow as he fights Yoshinofuji.

Then, what of Onosato? Two days in and he has two losses already. Will he right this ship? We’ve got a hot list of bouts tomorrow, that’s for sure. Onosato will fight Fujinokawa. If Onosato retreats from the much smaller Day Three opponent Fujinokawa, I would presume he will sit out.

Aonishiki will fight Wakatakakage, Kotozakura will battle Churanoumi, Kirishima will face Atamifuji and Takayasu will take on Wakamotoharu. There’s a lot of fire in that torikumi, that’s for sure.

Hatsu 2026: Day Four

Andy Hatsu 2026, Hatsu Basho , , ,

Day Four begins in Tokyo. No kyujo to report from the top two divisions. In Juryo, Meisei and Wakanosho lost to fall out of the lead group of Fujiseiun, Sadanoumi, and Dewanoryu. Video of Sadanoumi’s win is included in today’s NHK videos. Scroll past the top division action to find it, along with interview videos from today.

Yesterday’s action is behind us. Well, not quite. There was a lot of great action but the controversy around Ura’s loss to Onosato attracted a lot of attention in the press. To recap, Onosato forced Ura backward but with a last second twist, Ura pulled Onosato forward and forced Onosato to touch the ground a split second before Ura landed on his butt.

The judges’ decision for a rematch instead of Ura’s outright win rightly created a lot of confusion. “But Onosato touched first.” Some point at Ura’s heel as the deciding factor but Takadagawa-oyakata, the head judge on the dohyo at the time, revealed there was divided opinion among the folks in the replay room. With such doubt, the rematch was decided.

Effectively, rather than seizing victory from the jaws of defeat, Ura seized a rematch. His move sewed doubt in many of us watching and earned himself a rematch. Unfortunately for him, Onosato dominated the second bout. Anyway, I found it telling that the judges themselves were split in this case and lacking consensus, opted for a rematch.

NHK videos for Day Four are here.

Makuuchi Action

Oshoumi (3-1) defeated Ryuden (1-3). Ryuden shifted to his left at the tachiai. Oshoumi turned and stopped his momentum in time but Ryuden blitzed and shoved Oshoumi to the edge. Both men grabbed each others mawashi and pulled up with all their might as Ryuden tried to force Oshoumi over the bales. Oshoumi twisted and turned the tables on Ryuden, heaving the Takadagawa-beya veteran over the bales. Utchari.

Asakoryu (2-2) defeated Hatsuyama (0-4). Hatsuyama pulled and tried a slapdown but that played into Asakoryu’s hands as he shoved Hatsuyama back and over the bales. Oshidashi.

Asanoyama (3-1) defeated Shishi (3-1). Shishi charged forward but Asanoyama was strong enough to resist Shishi’s pressure. He wasn’t going anywhere. He hooked his right arm under Shishi’s left and twisted Shishi down with a quick beltless throw. Sukuinage.

Mitakeumi (2-2) defeated Asahakuryu (3-1). A rather soft tachiai from Asahakuryu as he shifted left. Mitakeumi turned and pressed forward, forcing Asahakuryu over the bales. Yorikiri.

Midorifuji (1-3) defeated Tobizaru (1-3). Midorifuji picked up his first win after a great belt battle. Tobizaru locked in with his right hand inside belt grip. Midorifuji countered with his left hand over arm. He pulled Tobizaru toward the bales and with his right arm freed from Tobizaru’s ottsuke, twisted Tobizaru down at the edge. Sukuinage.

Abi (4-0) defeated Tomokaze (1-3). Tomokaze pressed forward for a change and Abi immediately shifted right and pulled Tomokaze down. “That’s how you execute.” Hatakikomi.

Tokihayate (2-2) defeated Chiyoshoma (2-2). Tokihayate grabbed Chiyoshoma’s belt with his right-hand over arm grip and hauled Chiyoshoma down, pressing on Chiyoshoma’s head with his left hand. Gunbai Tokihayate. Mono-ii. Hairpull? Upon review, Tokihayate’s hand never curled itself in Chiyoshoma’s top-knot. No pull so the gyoji’s decision was confirmed. Uwatedashinage.

Kotoshoho (2-2) defeated Nishikifuji (2-2). The two men clashed with head butts and tsuppari. Kotoshoho slipped left as Nishikifuji charged forward and caught Nishikifuji off-balance, slapping him down. Hatakikomi.

Shodai (3-1) defeated Gonoyama (1-3). Gonoyama pressed his weight forward into Shodai but he couldn’t create forward momentum. Instead Shodai charged ahead. Gonoyama shoved his arm into Shodai’s face. Displeased, Shodai used his left arm, hooked under Gonoyama’s right to shove Gonoyama down to the ground. Tsukiotoshi.

Roga (2-2) defeated Kinbozan (1-3). Kinbozan charged ahead but his right leg lost grip with the dohyo and he slipped down. Tsukiotoshi.

Oshoma (4-0) defeated Hiradoumi (2-2). Oshoma grabbed Hiradoumi’s left arm and dragged him over to the bales. As Hiradoumi slammed on the brakes and resisted Oshoma’s pull, Oshoma changed his approach and shoved Hiradoumi, instead. This used Hiradoumi’s force against him and sent Hiradoumi across the dohyo and over the bales. Oshidashi.

Halftime

Fujinokawa (3-1) defeated Onokatsu (1-3). Fujinokawa threw everything but the kitchen sink at Onokatsu. Pushes, pulls, throws, and kicks. Eventually, Fujinokawa got a morozashi hold of Onokatsu’s belt, twisted him over to the bales and then hauled him over. Yorikiri.

Tamawashi (2-2) defeated Daieisho (1-3). As Daieisho thrust his way forward, Tamawashi shifted to his right and shoved Daieisho to the ground. Tsukiotoshi.

Atamifuji (2-2) defeated Churanoumi (2-2). Atamifuji used his left arm to pull Churanoumi’s right arm off his belt. Pulling up with the right arm under Churanoumi’s left, Atamifuji thrust forward with gaburi-yotsu and forced Churanoumi over the edge. Yorikiri.

Wakatakakage (3-1) defeated Takanosho (0-4). Takanosho drove forward, putting Wakatakakage’s back to the edge. But Wakatakakage was able to escape to his right and pulled Takanosho forward to the bales. He then charged ahead to finish Takanosho off. Oshidashi.

Sanyaku

Kirishima (4-0) defeated Wakamotoharu (0-4). Kirishima used his left arm under Wakamotoharu’s right and kept twisting, trying to unleash that sukuinage but Wakamotoharu resisted each time. Kirishima tried to change his left-hand hold for a belt grip but WMH wouldn’t let him. Instead, Kirishima reached over with his right arm, grabbed Wakamotoharu’s belt and drove him straight back over the bales. Yorikiri.

Takayasu (3-1) defeated Hakunofuji (2-2). Hakunofuji tried to grab Takayasu’s left arm for a kotenage but Takayasu cleverly turned the tables and locked Hakunofuji’s right arm. He then pulled Hakunofuji forward by his right arm. Sakatottari.  

Ichiyamamoto (1-3) defeated Kotozakura (3-1). Ichiyamamoto wrapped up Kotozakura with his right hand inside. As Ichiyamamoto lifted and pressed forward, Kotozakura tried to twist Ichiyamamoto down. Kotozakura stepped out as Ichiyamamoto went down. Gunbai Ichiyamamoto. No mono-ii. Yorikiri.

Oho (1-3) defeated Aonishiki (3-1). Oho hooked his arms under Aonishiki’s left arm and pulled hard. He did not want Aonishiki to have that belt grip. He succeeded in forcing Aonishiki to release. Even more, he forced Aonishiki back to the edge. Aonishiki tried to twist as both men crashed over the edge. Gunbai Oho. No mono-ii. Abisetaoshi.

Hoshoryu (3-1) defeated Ura (0-4). Hoshoryu found himself with a hand full of Ura’s belt and Ura pitched perilously forward. Hoshoryu realized he could shift left and pull Ura forward for an easy win. Uwatehineri.

Yoshinofuji (2-2) defeated Onosato (3-1). Yoshinofuji is a hoss. Another double-fisted stack of kensho. Wow. Yoshinofuji owned this bout. He quickly locked on to Onosato’s belt with his left hand over arm grip, pivoted left and hoisted Onosato over. Uwatenage.

Wrap-up

Three upsets today. Aonishiki has looked vulnerable at times but managed to keep winning. Oho put an end to that today. It looked like he had a plan and executed it well by attacking that left arm. Will others take note and follow that strategy? Yoshinofuji won another kinboshi off Onosato. His rise has been so fast, like the Yokozuna’s, that he still can’t wear the oicho-mage.

Today threw a wrench into a whole lot of yusho plans. We’re down to three undefeated wrestlers in Makuuchi: Kirishima, Oshoma, and Abi. Do you see a yusho coming from one of those three? Obviously, Kirishima and Abi are yusho winners already. Kirishima is finally in form and would love to put together a new Ozeki run. I have a feeling there would be open revolt among Tachiai readers if Oshoma were to win or if Abi would win again from such a low rank…again. What’s more likely is the yusho race will look completely different after nakabi.

There are a slew of great bouts on tap tomorrow, even among rank-and-filers. Top division action will open with Asanoyama fighting Ryuden. Abi will take on Chiyoshoma. Oshoma will fight Kinbozan. Ura will fight Atamifuji and Ichiyamamoto will take on Yoshinofuji, earning their break from sanyaku opponents.

In sanyaku, Takayasu will fight Wakamotoharu who is struggling to find a win. Takayasu, though, seems to be winning well by attacking his opponents’ arms. I wonder if that will continue or if that’s just a weird coincidence. Kirishima will take on Oho. Aonishiki will fight Daieisho with very slim chances that Daieisho will try to repeat Oho’s successful maneuver. Kotozakura will fight Hakunofuji, Onosato will take on the hapless Takanosho and Hoshoryu will have a tough one against Wakatakakage.

It’s the year of the horse so, “Giddyap.”

Hatsu 2026: Day Three

Andy Hatsu 2026, Hatsu Basho , , ,

No kyujo news. In Juryo, Fujiseiun heads a group of five undefeated. He’s joined by Sadanoumi, Meisei, Wakanosho and Dewanoryu. Also, maezumo started today. Oshima-beya’s Kyokugosei looks pretty strong, shoving out Chiyoryusei, a young lad who’s been plagued by injury but is making another go of it.

Day Three NHK videos are here.

Makuuchi Action

Oshoumi (2-1) defeated Hatsuyama (0-3). Oshoumi immediately got a left arm overarm grip and guided Hatsuyama back over the bales. Yorikiri.

Asahakuryu (3-0) defeated Ryuden (1-2). Asahakuryu shifted to his left at the tachiai and shoved Ryuden as the latter steamrolled through the dohyo. Asahakuryu followed up with a shove from behind to send Ryuden sprawling into the second row. Okuridashi.

Asanoyama (2-1) defeated Mitakeumi (1-2). Asanoyama locked up Mitakeumi’s mawashi with a left-hand overarm grip. Mitakeumi tried an ill-advised half pull to his left, ceding space to his opponent. Asanoyama quickly pressed forward and ushered Mitakeumi over the bales. Yorikiri.

Asakoryu (1-2) defeated Tomokaze (1-2). Three Takasago-beya bouts, three white stars. Tomokaze retreated with his slapdown attempt but Asakoryu was unfazed. He blitzed Tomokaze and helped him find his way to the hanamichi. Oshidashi.

Shishi (3-0) defeated Tobizaru (1-2). Shishi landed blow after blow against Tobizaru. Tobizaru tried to charge inside but Shishi blasted him with another shove, keeping the Flying Monkey at arms’ length. Bam, Bam, Bam, and Shishi sent Tobizaru flying. He landed in the lap of a woman in the second row. Oshidashi.

NHK decided to break into sumo coverage to show a press conference with the Japanese Prime Minister and South Korean President. Thanks to the live scoreboard at sumo.or.jp, I got to learn who won. I might need to use those NHK videos myself, later.

Abi (3-0) defeated Nishikifuji (2-1). Uwatenage.

Chiyoshoma (2-1) defeated Midorifuji (0-3). Yorikiri.

Kotoshoho (1-2) defeated Roga (1-2). Yorikiri.

If this press conference lasts any longer, I’ll be firing up the VPN.

Gonoyama (1-2) defeated Tokihayate (1-2). Oshidashi.

VPN engaged..ah, Abema, my old friend…久しぶりです

Fujinokawa (2-1) defeated Kinbozan (1-2). Kinbozan laid into Fujinokawa and thrust his head back but Fujinokawa shifted left and slapped Kinbozan down. Tsukiotoshi.

Oshoma defeated Shodai. Oshoma kept up his assault longer than Shodai was willing to bear it. He slammed into Shodai with headbutts, then shoved him with powerful thrusts, slaps, and a fierce nodowa. At the edge, Shodai tried to grab Oshoma’s arm and pull him over the bales but Oshoma just increased the severity of his beat-down until Shodai could take no more. Tsukidashi.

Halftime

…and Abema commercials, let’s check NHK. Press conference is over!! Yay!! So, what did I miss? I noticed these videos were up pretty quickly during the press conference. Sometimes it takes quite a while for them to be posted but today it’s pretty quick.

Abi over Nishikifuji: Nishikifuji actually got the jump on Abi and did really well to force him to the bales. However, Abi used those long arms to get his left hand on Nishikifuji’s mawashi. In an impressive show of strength, Abi then flung Nishikifuji around the ring until he hauled him down. Uwatenage.

Chiyoshoma over Midorifuji: Chiyoshoma was all over Midorifuji like white on rice, as they say. He quickly overpowered Midorifuji, got firm grips with both hands and hauled Midorifuji out. Yorikiri.

Kotoshoho over Roga: Roga shifted left after the tachiai but Kotoshoho followed, wrapped him up and dropped him. Yorikiri.

Gonoyama destroyed Tokihayate, driving him straight back and off the cliff. Oshidashi.

The Live Action

Onokatsu (1-2) defeated Churanoumi (2-1). After a flurry of tsuppari and a long, great yotsu battle, Onokatsu wore Churanoumi down and helped him over the edge of the tawara. Bout of the Day contender. Yorikiri.

NEWS BREAK?!?!?! You still do the usual news break?!?!?!

Hiradoumi (2-1) defeated Tamawashi (1-2). Hiradoumi blitzed the veteran and quickly hauled him backward and over the bales. Yorikiri.

Atamifuji (1-2) defeated Takanosho (0-3). Takanosho forced Atamifuji to the bales but Atamifuji was able to free his left arm, pivot and pull, slapping Takanosho down. Hatakikomi.

Sanyaku

Wakatakakage (2-1) defeated Oho (0-3). Wakatakakage slammed into Oho with incredible speed and power. He used his right hand inside grip and left hand outside to force Oho back and out quickly. Yorikiri.

ANOTHER NEWS BREAK?!?! You’ve got to be kidding me. Thank God this was a quick one. I hope Japan-China relations don’t get much worse. Just think about what it would do to sumo coverage. Peace on Earth!! War on the Dohyo!!

Takayasu (2-1) defeated Daieisho (1-2). We thought the Onokatsu/Churanoumi bout was going to be bout-of-the-day. Not so fast. This fierce brawl was fantastic. At last, Takayasu grabs Daieisho by the arm with both hands and swings him down at the edge. Kainahineri.

Kirishima (3-0) defeated Hakunofuji (2-1). What a thrilling belt battle! Hakunofuji gains the edge and brings Kirishima back. Both men took a tumble from the dohyo as Kirishima refused to step out easily. Gunbai Hakunofuji. Mono-ii? Oh, dear…Hakunofuji’s toe goes over the bales as Kirishima comes down. Meanwhile, Hakunofuji is slow to get up, possibly breaking his nose. Both were out. Judges rule a rematch! Wow, sometimes this sport is cruel. On the rematch, Kirishima pulls along the bales and thrusts Hakunofuji down at the edge. Gunbai Kirishima, no mono-ii. Tsukiotoshi.

Aonishiki (3-0) defeated Ichiyamamoto (0-3). Aonishiki almost played this to Ichiyamamoto’s advantage with the early hazu-oshi. Ichiyamamoto forced Aonishiki back to the edge with his thrusts but Aonishiki was determined. He tried a slapdown and then reached in to grab Ichiyamamoto’s mawashi with his left-hand inside. From there, he charged forward and bulldozed Ichiyamamoto out. Yorikiri.

These last few bouts have been absolute fire. I called for War on the Dohyo and that’s what we’ve been getting.

Kotozakura (3-0) defeated Wakamotoharu (0-3). Wakamotoharu drove forward with his right-hand over-arm grip but Kotozakura twisted and hauled him down at the edge. Gunbai Kotozakura. Mono-ii. They wanted to check if both came out at the same time but Wakamotoharu’s left calf was clearly down. Sukuinage.

Onosato (3-0) defeated Ura (0-3). Why did Onosato pull? Instead of dominating, Onosato charged ahead initially but then pulled. As the two tussled, Ura fell back but grabbed Onosato’s right leg and pulled him down while falling on his backside. Ura immediately spun to check the gunbai and when he saw it pointed to the Yokozuna, he was furious. Mono-ii. Judges ruled both down and demanded another rematch! This one will be controversial, I know. Onosato’s hands were down while Ura was still hovering over the dohyo. In the rematch, Onosato bulled forward and flung Ura into ex-Tochiozan’s lap. Oshitaoshi.

It’s 6:00pm, NHK. This is what you get for interrupting sumo coverage. Sumo coverage interrupts the news. Nya!

Yoshinofuji (1-2) defeated Hoshoryu (2-1). The first upset of this basho goes to Yoshinofuji. He powered into Hoshoryu, blasted him high and then wrapped up his trunk. Hoshoryu twisted and tried to throw Yoshinofuji down but couldn’t disrupt Yoshinofuji’s balance. Yoshinofuji got a grip of Hoshoryu’s thong and plowed straight ahead. Kinboshi with the Yokozuna wedgie kicker. Yorikiri.

Wrap-up

What a wild day. Seeing those Mr. Donut banners before the Hoshoryu bout has me craving a donut. I have a Dr. appointment to check my blood pressure today and today’s absolute chaos just won’t be good for it. Why not pile a donut on top? I deserve it. There aren’t any Mr. Donuts here but I will find a reasonable facsimile. Maybe two.

For tomorrow’s bouts, if there aren’t any more press conferences we should be able to see Shishi fight Asanoyama. Shishi has been fighting well so this could be an interesting matchup. He’s still rather lumbering but he has been feisty. Fujinokawa versus Onokatsu could be another good one, just after the halftime break.

In sanyaku, Kirishima will fight Wakamotoharu and Takayasu will take on the remains of Hakunofuji. Kotozakura will run away from Ichiyamamoto, Aonishiki will be challenged by Oho, Hoshoryu will try to bounce back against Ura and Onosato will try not to give up another kinboshi to Yoshinofuji who walked away with a double-fisted stack of donut money today.

Kyushu 2025: Day Seven

Andy Kyushu 2025, Kyushu Basho , , ,

Check out Leonid’s update on the Makushita race. I was bummed to see Enho lose the other day but he faced a stiff challenge in Kazuma. Seihakuho could also make it to sekitori before long. No news to report on the kyujo front in either of the sekitori divisions. Fujiryoga continues to steamroll through Juryo and stands at 7-0. Shirokuma and Daiseizan chase with one loss. Fujiryoga will fight Tohakuryu tomorrow while Shirokuma will face Shiden and Daiseizan will fight Kotoeiho.

Your NHK videos are here.

Makuuchi Action

Nishikifuji (5-2) defeated Asakoryu (5-2). Henka! Asakoryu jumped to the left but Nishikifuji caught him. Asakoryu followed up with a blitzing and shoving attack which Nishikifuji withstood and then began his own attack. Asakoryu spent much of the rest of the bout in retreat around the edge of the ring until Nishikifuji caught up and shoved him out. Yorikiri.

Asanoyama (Juryo 5-2) defeated Tokihayate (5-2). Asanoyama fought hard to get his right hand inside Tokihayate’s left. Tokihayate, like Asakoryu, entered retreat mode and Asanoyama used that hard-earned right hand inside to usher him over the bales. Asanoyama supporters were out with their hand towels, delighted in his victory. Asanoyama is determined to earn his return to makuuchi this tournament. Yorikiri.

Sadanoumi (2-5) defeated Ryuden (4-3). Sadanoumi acquired a morozashi, double-inside grip, lifted, and drove Ryuden back and out. Yorikiri.

Chiyoshoma (4-3) defeated Mitakeumi (3-4). This was a one-sided affair as Chiyoshoma attacked Mitakeumi, drove him to the edge, got a morozashi and lifted the former Ozeki out. I had chosen a good bout to watch from the kitchen while getting tea. Yorikiri.

Roga (4-3) defeated Oshoumi (1-6). Roga locked in quickly on the newbie with his left hand over-arm grip (uwate). When he locked on with the right hand inside, he rolled clockwise and hauled Oshoumi down to the clay. Uwatenage.

Shishi (2-5) defeated Shonannoumi (2-5). Shishi buried his head in Shonannoumi’s breast and followed him everywhere he went. When Shonannoumi grew tired of this Kuato, he pulled again and Shishi walked him over the bales. Yorikiri.

Gonoyama (4-3) defeated Kotoshoho (4-3). Gonoyama kept pace with Kotoshoho’s retreating style. At the bales, Gonoyama shoved Kotoshoho out. Oshidashi.

Daieisho (5-2) defeated Tomokaze (1-6). Tomokaze pulled and Daieisho drove him out. No pivot, no win. Oshidashi.

Fujinokawa (6-1) defeated Tobizaru (3-4). Fujinokawa resisted Tobizaru’s twisting throw attempt and used his right hand inside to shove Tobizaru over the bales. Oshitaoshi.

Churanoumi (4-3) defeated Abi (2-5). Abi grabbed a hold of Churanoumi’s arm and pulled him toward the edge. It wasn’t a firm grip, though. When Churanoumi took his hand back, Abi let up because knew he was cooked. Churanoumi gently finished Abi off with a shove from behind. Okuradashi.

Onokatsu (3-4) defeated Midorifuji (2-5). Onokatsu deliberated the kimedashi hold but that would give Midorifuji a dangerous morozashi. Onokatsu then resolved to work his right hand inside. Migi-yotsu. With his firm hold, Onokatsu followed Midorifuji everywhere he went. Midorifuji missed a step and his leg finally gave out in retreat. Onokatsu rode him to the ground. Yoritaoshi.

Halftime

Kinbozan (2-5) defeated Atamifuji (5-2). Kinbozan quickly locked on to Atamifuji’s belt, pivoted on his left foot and dumped Atamifuji on the tawara. Uwatenage.

Shodai defeated Ichiyamamoto. With a right hand inside grip, Shodai entered attack mode and hauled Ichiyamamoto over to the bales. Ichiyamamoto scampered right along the bales trying to lose him but Shodai kept up. Ichiyamamoto gave a half turn to twist and get away but Shodai was determined and drove Ichiayamamoto out, delighting the home crowd. Shodai is from Kumamoto prefecture. Yorikiri.

Yoshinofuji (6-1) defeated Hiradoumi (2-5). Hiradoumi showed now ill effects after getting hit by a truck yesterday. Yoshinofuji was too strong, though. He forced Hiradoumi to the edge. When Hiradoumi resisted at the bales, he twisted and hauled Hiradoumi around with his left hand uwate. He tried to get Hiradoumi down with his big paw on Hiradoumi’s head but settled for shoving him out. Yorikiri.  

Hakuoho (3-4) defeated Oshoma (3-4). Solid yotsu from Hakuoho as he drove Oshoma back with his left hand inside. Yorikiri.

Sanyaku

Wakatakakage (2-5) defeated Takanosho (1-6). Once Wakatakakage withstood Takanosho’s initial driving attack, Takanosho really didn’t have a follow-up. WTK resisted at the bales and drove his way forward, settling with Takanosho’s heels on the bales at the opposite side of the ring. After a bit of a lean, Wakatakakage twisted and knocked Takanosho in the right shoulder, causing Takanosho to stumble to the left. Wakatakakage easily shoved him out from behind. Okuridashi.

Kirishima (4-3) defeated Oho (3-4). This was a great brawl. A fairly even matched exchange of tsuppari, and some headbutts. Kirishima finally got his right hand inside Oho’s left arm and drove Oho back to the bales. When Oho resisted, Kirishima then twisted and forcefully threw him to the ground. Oshitaoshi.

Aonishiki (6-1) defeated Takayasu (4-3). This was a great, spirited fight. Lots of tsuppari, twists and feints. Takayasu got a right hand uwate and tried to haul Aonishiki over the bales but Aonishiki tripped him up just enough to cause Takayasu to stumble a bit. Aonishiki used his own left hand inside grip to push Takayasu over the bales first. Yorikiri.

Wakamotoharu (2-5) defeated Kotozakura (3-4). A bout that Kotozakura could not lose, and he lost it. Kotozakura pressed forward with his right hand inside. But Wakamotoharu pivoted at the edge and used his left hand uwate to dump the Ozeki to the ground. Uwatenage.

Hoshoryu (5-2) defeated Tamawashi (4-3). Hoshoryu fought like a Tamawashi-clone, both men hitting the other with brutal thrusts as they twisted and brawled around the ring. Like a pair of Tasmanian Devils, the two blasted each other until they both stood, rather gassed, opposite each other at the center of the ring. Hoshoryu seemed to taunt Tamawashi. “Well, bring it old man.” Tamawashi obliged and engaged for a final charge but Hoshoryu locked him up with his right hand inside and easily drove the exhausted Tamawashi back and out. Yorikiri.

Onosato (7-0) defeated Ura (3-4). Ura showed that you have to get low to drive Onosato back. Ura tried to get Onosato’s leg but missed and had to settle for the belt. Onosato reached over Ura for the back of his belt and pulled. He had enough space behind him to run Ura to ground before leaving the dohyo himself. Uwatehineri.

Wrap-up

Even in the loss, Tamawashi draws level with Kaio, tied for second place all-time with 1444 bouts in the top division. Only Kyokutenho has more (1470). Tamawashi is on pace to break Kyokutenho’s record in Osaka next year.

I feel like Hoshoryu won their bout because he was patient and didn’t try to rush anything. None of Tamawashi’s parries were able to shake the Yokozuna. But Hoshoryu had more gas in the tank. He will need to refuel to be ready to face Ura tomorrow on Nakabi in the musubi-no-ichiban.

Onosato will take his turn to fight Tamawashi as Tamawashi takes sole possession of second place in his 1445th makuuchi bout.

If Kotozakura shows up tomorrow, he will fight Hiradoumi. The Ozeki is digging a massive hole for himself which is likely already impossible for him to climb out of. He needs six wins in eight days against the heart of his schedule…just to avoid kadoban.

Aonishiki will fight Oho, Hakuoho will fight Takayasu, and Takanosho will give it the old college try against Kirishima.

There are two rank-and-filers tied with Aonishiki, Yoshinofuji and Fujinokawa. Fujinokawa will fight Tomokaze who withered quickly against Daieisho today. Tougher fights will likely come in the following days. Yoshinofuji on the other hand, is already in the thick of it. He will fight Wakamotoharu tomorrow.

See you on Nakabi!