# Yokozuna Hoshoryu makes joint training visit to Sakaigawa stable, fights 21 bouts with excellent content and plenty of horsepower: "Good feeling"

Gearing up for Grand Sumo's Nagoya Basho (first day on July 12th, IG Arena), Yokozuna Hoshoryu (Tatsunami stable)—who sat out midway through the last tournament due to a right leg injury—made his first joint training visit (degeiko) since the rankings (banzuke) announcement on the 6th to Sakaigawa stable in Fuso Town, Aichi Prefecture. Exuding a sense of fulfillment over the high-quality content backed by plenty of horsepower, he noted, "I was able to practice with a good feeling."

In addition to Hiradoumi, Hoshoryu selected Hakunofuji (Isegahama stable) and Fujiryoga (Fujishima stable)—who had also come for the joint training visit—to fight a total of 21 bouts. He overwhelmed them with a versatile repertoire, including sharp-surging pushes and powerful forcing out (yori). Regarding the condition of his right leg, he also showed a smile, stating, "As you can see, it's fine."

Among other Makuuchi wrestlers, Ozeki Kirishima, Sekiwake Atamifuji, and maegashira wrestlers Fujinokawa and Fujiseiun also visited for the joint training session.

Source: Yomiuri Shimbun Online

# Yokozuna Onosato goes a perfect 11-0 against Ozeki Kotozakura: "Feels good physically"; A demonstration of revival after sitting out 2 consecutive tournaments 【Grand Sumo】

"Grand Sumo Nagoya Basho" (First day on July 12th, IG Arena)

The Nishonoseki ichimon (clan) joint training session (rengo-geiko) was conducted on the 6th at Butchiin in Tempaku Ward, Nagoya City, and Yokozuna Onosato (26, Nishonoseki stable)—who has sat out two consecutive tournaments—made a powerful appeal for his comeback. He fought 11 training bouts against Ozeki Kotozakura (28, Sadogatake stable) and won them all.

In the early stage, in addition to his signature move of inserting his right arm inside (migi-sashi) and pressing forward, his movements stood out as he pulled his right arm to destabilize his opponent with a pulling throw (dashinage) to push him out from behind (okuridashi), and moved to the side to push him out (oshidashi). In the final stage, he showed a flawless forcing out (yori), applying a left arm-block (hidari-ottsuke) from a right inside grip and taking a left outer grip (hidari-uwate). "I haven't watched the footage yet, but I think it was good. In a situation where I didn't quite know my own condition, it had been a while since I went to a joint training visit without prior testing. I think the feel of it was good," he stated.

He continued to shut down Kotozakura's attempts to get an inside grip and noted, "The initial charge (tachi-ai) and the position of my hips on my lower body weren't bad, so that was good." Looking ahead to the opening day, he remained positive, saying, "I don't think it's bad. I want to shift gears up once more and do it."

Last year he approached Nagoya as a new Yokozuna, and the year before that as a new Sekiwake following his first Makuuchi championship. "I always come to Nagoya with a good feeling, but this time is different. There are three tournaments left this year, and since the first three (of the first half) were not good, it would be great if I could carry out the next three in a good way," he vowed, promising a comeback. A left shoulder injury has been the cause of his slump, but on this day he expressed confidence in his response: "It wasn't bad. Even in terms of physical sensation."

His mentor, Oyakata Nishonoseki (former Yokozuna Kisenosato), evaluated favorably: "His balance has gotten better."

Source: Daily Sports

# Asanoyama declares participation in Nagoya Basho; Left instep recovering smoothly, aims for double-digit wins toward upper Makuuchi ranks

"Grand Sumo Nagoya Basho" (First day on July 12th, IG Arena)

Makuuchi Asanoyama (Takasago stable) practiced on the 5th at his stable's lodging in Kanie Town, Aichi Prefecture, and clearly declared his participation in the Nagoya Basho. At the Summer Basho, he recorded 7 wins, 5 losses, and 3 absences. He had sat out midway through the tournament due to a Lisfranc ligament injury in his left instep, and also missed the Paris exhibition on June 13th and 14th. On this day, he broke a sweat doing only basics such as suriashi (sliding feet), shiko (stamping), and push-ups, but he has already resumed training bouts since arriving in Nagoya.

"My foot has been getting considerably better. Bit by bit," Asanoyama explained regarding his situation. He looked forward, stating, "I skipped Paris (the exhibition) in order to compete in Nagoya. It was a decision I made myself. I can't go back to the past, and I have no regrets left. I just have to do it."

It was the Nagoya tournament two years ago when he suffered a major injury to his left knee. Although he has returned to the Makuuchi division, he has not yet reached his target of the upper Makuuchi ranks. "I haven't been able to secure double-digit wins yet. I want to aim for double-digit wins, and anything above a winning record (kachikoshi)," he vowed.

Source: Daily Sports

# Wakatakakage to sit out Nagoya Basho; Last tournament's champion likely dealing with left leg pain

East Sekiwake Wakatakakage (31) — real name Atsushi Onami, from Fukushima Prefecture, Arashio stable — will sit out the Nagoya Basho (first day on July 12th, IG Arena), his mentor Oyakata Arashio (former Makuuchi Sokokurai) revealed on the 6th. He injured his left thigh during practice on the 1st, and his conditioning had fallen significantly behind schedule.

Wakatakakage captured his second championship title last tournament, and this tournament, where he returned to the sekiwake rank for the first time in 5 tournaments, he was highly expected to solidify his foundation for promotion to Ozeki. He sustained the injury at Sadogatake stable, where he had gone for joint training (degeiko), and according to his master, he had skipped practice from the 2nd onward. If his withdrawal is officially decided at the bout-scheduling committee meeting on the 10th, it will be his 8th career absence and his first in 2 tournaments.

Source: Kyodo News

# Former Rugby U20 Japan National Team player to enter Sumo world; Shintaro Haraguchi takes new disciple examination today; Volunteered to join Isegahama stable

The new disciple examination (shin-deshi kensa) for Grand Sumo's Nagoya Basho (first day on July 12th, IG Arena) will be conducted on the 6th in Nagoya City. It was learned on the 5th that Shintaro Haraguchi (22), who is taking the exam from the Isegahama stable, holds a track record of being selected for the U20 Japan National Team in rugby. An Isegahama stable official revealed, "His entry was a voluntary application from the person himself." Although he is inexperienced in sumo, he has reportedly already participated in the stable's practices several times.

In rugby, he has been forged at powerhouse schools. Born in Saga Prefecture, he reached the top 8 in the National High School Rugby Tournament during his third year at Saga Technical High School, which produced former Japan national team player Ayumu Goromaru (40). He went on to Tokai University, the same school as Japan national team's Michael Leitch (37) and others. In 2023, playing as a prop, he was selected as a candidate for the U20 Japan National Team and successfully made the roster for the "World Rugby U20 Championship" held in South Africa.

While entering the sumo world from other sports is not uncommon, a person with national team experience in age-restricted categories can be considered unique. The new disciple examination requires meeting the physical standards of a height of 167 centimeters or more and a weight of 67 kilograms or more, but since Haraguchi boasts a physique of 180 centimeters in height and 120 kilograms in weight according to the Japan Rugby Football Union, it is expected that there will be no hindrance to his passing. If he passes, he will step onto his initial ring (hatsu-dohyo) at the Nagoya Basho. The Isegahama stable is known for its abundant training volume and holds a total of 9 sekitori—including Sekiwake Atamifuji and Komusubi Yoshinofuji—which is the highest number among all stables. Whether he can dive into this harsh environment and achieve a great leap in the sumo world is drawing attention.

Hochi Shimbun

# Takayasu heads into Nagoya Basho as the oldest in Makuuchi for the first time: "I am a competitor. I cannot lose to the young ones"... First day on July 12th

Grand Sumo's Makuuchi Takayasu (Tagonoura stable) fought a total of 16 training bouts against wrestlers from the Makushita division and below on the 5th at his stable's lodging in Seto City, Aichi Prefecture, gearing up for the Nagoya Basho. He sat out midway through the last tournament due to a right adductor muscle injury, but is recovering smoothly, stating, "I can practice with almost nothing bothering me." Up to this point, he has been thoroughly moving his body at his own stable and expressed, "Since I was able to make adjustments without any oversight, now all that's left is for my body to move properly."

With 41-year-old Tamawashi (Kataonami stable) dropping to the Juryo division for this tournament, the entire Makuuchi division consists of wrestlers born in the Heisei era for the first time in history. The 36-year-old Takayasu will be approaching the tournament as the oldest in Makuuchi for the first time, giving a wry smile as he said, "I ended up becoming the single oldest person. That's rough." Nevertheless, his competitive fire shows no signs of waning: "At the end of the day, I am a competitor (shobushi). I cannot lose to the young ones, and if I lose and it stops feeling frustrating, then it's all over."

Starting this year, the Nagoya Basho lodging has relocated to Hachioji Shrine in Seto City. It has become an environment where it is easy to observe the practices, and many associates and fans watched over them on this day as well. "It's extremely easy to live here, and having this many fans gather allows us to do spirited practices. I'm grateful for this wonderful environment," he said with a smile.

Due to his withdrawal last tournament, he fell from the sanyaku ranks, but what continues to be expected of him is his long-awaited first championship victory. The former Ozeki put strength into his words, stating, "I want to perform fulfilling sumo until the final day (Senshuraku) while making sure not to get injured. If I do that, I think the results will come through by the final phase." (Naofumi Hayashi)

Hochi Shimbun

# Chairman Hakkaku dons the shimekomi to instruct disciples; Though the thought "this year might be the last" crossed his mind, next year's Nagoya Basho will be his final one as a stablemaster: "I intend to do my best"

The JSA Chairman Hakkaku (former Yokozuna Hokutoumi) instructed the pre-Nagoya Basho training on the 3rd, once again donning his shimekomi (silk tournament mawashi) this year.

"When you wrap the mawashi, everything clicks into place." He celebrated his 63rd birthday on June 22nd. While the thought "maybe this year is the last time I wrap the mawashi" crossed his mind, next year's Nagoya Basho will be his final one entering as a stablemaster. "There is only this year and next year left. I intend to do my best," he stated.

Although Chairman Hakkaku never won a Nagoya Basho championship during his active days, he recalled, "My physical condition was better than during the cold seasons. I would train intensely and break a heavy sweat. I didn't hate the heat. I have a good image of the Nagoya Basho." Drawing from his own experience, he expects hot battles from the top-ranked wrestlers seeking a comeback and from the younger generation.

Chunichi Sports

# Wakatakakage skips practice for 2nd consecutive day, visits hospital due to left thigh pain; Dark clouds loom over building the foundation for Ozeki promotion

Sekiwake Wakatakakage (31, Arashio stable), who aims to solidify his foundation for a promotion to Ozeki at the Grand Sumo Nagoya Basho (first day on July 12th, IG Arena), underwent examinations at a hospital on the 3rd. On the 1st, he went out for training (degeiko) at the Sadogatake stable in Nagoya City along with his older brother, Makuuchi Wakamotoharu (32), and newly promoted Makuuchi Daiseizan (26). He joined the bout-grabbing session (moshiai) at the practice area where 11 sekitori had gathered, but during his fourth bout against Sekiwake Kotoshoho (26), he easily stepped out of the ring and left the dohyo while tilting his head slightly. Afterwards, he repeatedly gestured out of concern for his left thigh and left the training area without rejoining the moshiai.

On this day, according to his mentor, Oyakata Arashio (former Makuuchi Sokokurai), Wakatakakage did not come down to the practice area for the second day in a row and went out for a medical consultation at the hospital instead. "He is complaining of pain in his left thigh and is having it looked at at the hospital. Since I haven't been able to grasp the details yet, I will talk about it around Monday or Tuesday of next week," the master explained regarding the current status.

During the Summer Basho, he won the playoff match against Kirishima, with whom he was tied at 12-3, capturing his second career championship title in 4 years. Skipping practice for two consecutive days right before a tournament meant to solidify the foundation for an Ozeki promotion is an abnormal situation in itself. For this highly watched wrestler of the Nagoya Basho, the situation might be critical enough that not just building his foundation, but even his actual participation in the tournament is in jeopardy.

Source: Sponichi Annex

# Last year's High School Yokozuna Kazuki Sawada and 4 others to take the Nagoya Basho new disciple examination, to be held on the 6th

The Japan Sumo Association announced on the 2nd the applicants for the new disciple examination (shin-deshi kensa) for Grand Sumo's Nagoya Basho (first day on July 12th, IG Arena), with 5 people having applied. Kazuki Sawada (18, Sakaigawa stable)—who captured the High School Yokozuna title last year and holds the qualification to debut at the bottom-most rank of the Sandanme division (Sandanme Saikaiki-kaku Tsukedashi)—is among those taking the exam.

The other applicants are Ataru Yamaguchi (18, Kokonoe stable), Taiga Inoue (18, Kise stable), Ryoma Tadokoro (17, Nishonoseki stable), and Shintaro Haraguchi (22, Isegahama stable). The physical standards for the examination require a height of 167 centimeters or more and a weight of 67 kilograms or more.

The new disciple examination will be conducted on the 6th.

Source: Nikkan Sports

# 11 Sekitori gather at Sadogatake stable; Kadoban Ozeki Kotozakura secures 11 wins and 2 losses with aggressive attacking

Grand Sumo Ozeki Kotozakura (28, Sadogatake stable) launched his full-scale movements on the 1st heading into the Nagoya Basho (first day on July 12th, IG Arena), which will be a kadoban tournament for him. Gathering at the Sadogatake stable in Nishi Ward, Nagoya City, were Sekiwake Wakatakakage, Makuuchi Wakamotoharu and Daiseizan from Arashio stable; Makuuchi Fujinokawa and Juryo Nishikigi from Isenoumi stable; plus Makuuchi Daieisho (Otefazé stable), Makuuchi Abi (Shikoroyama stable), and Makuuchi Roga (Futagoyama stable). Combined with Sadogatake stable's own three wrestlers (Kotozakura, Sekiwake Kotoshoho, and Makuuchi Kotoeiho), a total of 11 sekitori assembled. It became such a fulfilling training ground that Kotozakura gave a wry smile, saying, "There are three times more than I expected. It's like a joint training session (rengo-geiko)."

Among the 11 wrestlers, 5 were former tournament champions, and a fierce bout-grabbing session (moshiai) unfolded, with Kotozakura ultimately fighting 13 consecutive training bouts to finish 11-2. He pressed forward and dominated the likes of Wakamotoharu, Daieisho, and Abi from start to finish. In addition to gaining a double inside-underarm grip (morozashi), he also unleashed thrusting attacks (tsuppari). Even in his 2 losses, he merely succumbed to his opponents' resilience at the edge of the ring after pressing into their territory the entire time; there was almost no defensive sumo from him.

Although the maximum temperature in Nagoya did not reach 30 degrees Celsius on this day, the training area packed with many wrestlers was steaming with heat. "Regarding (the number of bouts), if I can do them, I want to, but in a way that won't impact the next day. I focused on the quality rather than the quantity. My (physical condition) is fine," Kotozakura explained.

Having finished with a losing record (makekoshi) at the Summer Basho due to a mid-tournament withdrawal, he also carries the heavy pressure of being kadoban, but remained positive, stating, "I want to aim for the championship race, and even beyond that."

Source: Sponichi Annex

# 18-year-old son of former Juryo Sunahama: "Aiming for Yokozuna" heading to the Autumn Basho new disciple shin-deshi examination! Oyakata Musashigawa conducted the scouting: "He has a great body" — Hawaii State High School Champion in the 130kg wrestling division

Masahiro Sunada (18), a native of Hawaii, USA, whose father is former Grand Sumo Juryo Sunahama (real name: William Tyler Hopkins), is continuing his training at the Musashigawa stable's lodging in Naka Ward, Nagoya City, with the goal of taking the new disciple examination (shin-deshi kensa) for the Autumn Basho.

Having graduated from Hawaii's Kahuku High School in May, he arrived in Japan in June. His mother is Japanese, and he holds Japanese citizenship. His father specialized in thrusting and pushing techniques (tsuki-oshi) that made use of his massive 192-kilogram frame, and Sunada, whose eyes look exactly like his father's, is also the owner of an admirable physique at 192 centimeters and 129 kilograms. Although he is inexperienced in sumo, he was active in American football and wrestling, and has experience capturing the Hawaii State High School Championship in the 130kg wrestling division.

His arrival in Japan came through after the enthusiasm of Oyakata Musashigawa (former Yokozuna Musashimaru), who had been paying attention to him for five years, finally reached him. A month ago, upon hearing that Sunada was unsure about his future path, the master said, "Since there was talk that he was going to a Hawaiian university for football, I had given up. But I thought it was a chance and sent him a love call." Having successfully scouted him, the master highly rates his future potential, stating, "He likes moving his body. His personality is serious, and he has a great body. His body is also flexible, and his strength is powerful."

Having lived in Japan during his early childhood, he can understand Japanese to a certain extent, and has no problems with the food. "He eats natto or anything else. As for chanko, he is the first to sit down, and even when everyone else has finished eating, he is still eating," said Oyakata Musashigawa. Sunada, who broke a solid sweat during training, expressed his enthusiasm, stating, "I will do my best. In order to aim for Yokozuna, I will work as hard as I can in this world."

Chunichi Sports

# Onosato learns from football kingdom Brazil: "I felt their obsession. A champion's battle was educational"

"Grand Sumo Nagoya Basho" (First day on the 12th, IG Arena)

Yokozuna Onosato (26, Nishonoseki stable) kicked off his movements on June 30th at his stable in Anjo City, Aichi Prefecture. Amid aiming for a comeback after sitting out two consecutive tournaments, he fought 11 training bouts against Makushita opponents, finishing 7-4. While demonstrating his signature pressure, there were also moments where his forward movement halted and he pulled back, digging his own grave. He tightened his focus, commenting, "Since I've been away from actual combat, I have to do practices to regain my senses."

He received stimulation from Brazil, who came from behind to beat Japan in the football World Cup: "I felt their obsession. The battle of the champions taught me a lot." After showing respect to the Japan National Team for "making Brazil get serious," he expressed, "I want to see the top 8, top 4, and a championship victory within my lifetime."

Source: Daily Sports

𝐉𝐮𝐥𝐲 𝐁𝐚𝐧𝐳𝐮𝐤𝐞 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟔: 𝐒𝐞𝐤𝐢𝐰𝐚𝐤𝐞'𝐬 𝐩𝐨𝐤𝐞𝐫, 𝐚 𝐩𝐫𝐨𝐦𝐨𝐭𝐞𝐝/𝐫𝐨𝐨𝐤𝐢𝐞 𝐭𝐨 𝐉𝐮𝐫𝐲𝐨 𝐧𝐨𝐭 𝐬𝐞𝐞𝐧 𝐬𝐢𝐧𝐜𝐞 𝟏𝟗𝟕𝟎. 𝐖𝐢𝐥𝐥 𝐊𝐨𝐭𝐨𝐳𝐚𝐤𝐮𝐫𝐚 𝐬𝐮𝐟𝐟𝐞𝐫 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐬𝐚𝐦𝐞 𝐟𝐚𝐭𝐞 𝐚𝐬 𝐀𝐨𝐧𝐢𝐬𝐡𝐢𝐤𝐢? 𝐖𝐢𝐥𝐥 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐔𝐤𝐫𝐚𝐢𝐧𝐢𝐚𝐧 𝐢𝐦𝐦𝐞𝐝𝐢𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐥𝐲 𝐫𝐞𝐭𝐮𝐫𝐧 𝐭𝐨 𝐎𝐳𝐞𝐤𝐢 𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐭𝐮𝐬?

With the hope of seeing the two white strings of Yokozuna parade throughout the entire fortnight of the Nagoya tournament, the July banzuke offers surprises and a packed san'yaku.

𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐎𝐳𝐞𝐤𝐢 𝐬𝐢𝐭𝐮𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐫𝐢𝐬𝐤 𝐨𝐟 𝐫𝐞𝐥𝐞𝐠𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧

At the top of the rankings, all attention is on Kotozakura, who in this tournament is facing kadoban status for the second time in his career. This means he will be required to achieve at least eight wins to maintain the prestigious rank of Ozeki, a situation that closely mirrors that experienced by the Ukrainian Aonishiki in the previous tournament.

𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐒𝐞𝐤𝐢𝐰𝐚𝐤𝐞 𝐑𝐚𝐧𝐤 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐍𝐞𝐰 𝐊𝐨𝐦𝐮𝐬𝐮𝐛𝐢

The Sekiwake rank is unusually dense, with four fighters competing at once, a numerical situation not seen since September 2024. Among these, Atamifuji and Kotoshoho maintain their positions for the second consecutive tournament, joined by the return of Wakatakakage and the demotion of former Ozeki Aonishiki. Moving to the Komusubi rank, the banzuke celebrates Yoshinofuji's debut in this elite tier, along with Oho's return after his last appearance in January.

𝐒𝐢𝐠𝐧𝐢𝐟𝐢𝐜𝐚𝐧𝐭 𝐋𝐞𝐚𝐩𝐬 𝐅𝐨𝐫𝐰𝐚𝐫𝐝 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐍𝐞𝐰 𝐂𝐚𝐫𝐞𝐞𝐫 𝐏𝐞𝐚𝐤𝐬

Among the Maegashira, the fighters on the rise stand out. The most significant and anticipated leap forward comes from M3 Hakuonfuji, who definitively overcomes serious foot problems with a solid 11 victories. Excellent comebacks and career highs also for 33-year-old Churanomi, fully recovered from his elbow problems, 34-year-old M9 Tobizaru, and M5 Ura, all capable of finishing the last tournament with clear growth. M7 Kotoeiho also performed well.

𝐖𝐡𝐨 𝐬𝐥𝐨𝐰𝐬 𝐝𝐨𝐰𝐧 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐰𝐡𝐨 𝐫𝐢𝐬𝐤𝐬: 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐬𝐭𝐞𝐞𝐩𝐞𝐬𝐭 𝐝𝐞𝐜𝐥𝐢𝐧𝐞𝐬

While many are celebrating, for others, the July banzuke proves severe, reflecting injuries and significant drops in form. The most painful and symbolic decline is that of the veteran 41-year-old J7 Tamawashi: the athlete has fallen sharply and, after collecting 21 losses in his last 33 matches, leaves the Makuuchi division for the first time since May 2013, ending a historic streak. He's not the only excellent player left out: the experienced J3 Ryuden and J2 Tokihayate – the latter severely limited by chronic ligament problems in his left knee – also lose their places in the top division.

Within Makuuchi itself, the performances of M8 Wakamotoharu, fresh from a bleak streak of 22 losses in 30 matches, and M12 Abi, who has suffered his seventh negative record (make-koshi) in the last nine competitions, are worrying. Ichiyamamoto and Shishi, both of whom appeared to be in serious physical difficulty and were forced to drop several positions in the rankings, are also worrying.

𝐍𝐞𝐰 𝐟𝐚𝐜𝐞𝐬 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐫𝐞𝐭𝐮𝐫𝐧𝐬 𝐭𝐨 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐭𝐨𝐩 𝐌𝐚𝐤𝐮𝐮𝐜𝐡𝐢 𝐝𝐢𝐯𝐢𝐬𝐢𝐨𝐧

The top division welcomes fresh forces and eagerly awaited returns. Among the absolute debutants entering Makuuchi are Kazuma (Juryo champion four months ago) and Chinese fighter Daiseizan, who thus becomes the second Chinese fighter in history to reach the top division. At the same time, the tournament welcomes the return of two notable names to the top division: former champion Takerufuji and Onokatsu, earning his first kachi-koshi in a year.

𝐒𝐭𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐬𝐭𝐢𝐜𝐚𝐥 𝐅𝐚𝐜𝐭 𝐟𝐫𝐨𝐦 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐉𝐮𝐫𝐲𝐨 𝐃𝐢𝐯𝐢𝐬𝐢𝐨𝐧

Finally, a memorable historical fact comes from the second professional division. The tournament saw the sole Juryo debut of Arashifuji. The fact that there is only one promotion in this category, and that this promotion coincides with a complete rookie, represents an absolute statistical rarity that hasn't occurred in the world of sumo since 1970, when the legendary Wajima achieved a similar feat.

@italianozeki

# "Strongest new disciple in history" Asahifuji reaches upper Makushita! Aiming for history's first undefeated 28-match winning streak & fastest ever new Juryo promotion [Grand Sumo Nagoya Basho]

The Japan Sumo Association announced on the 29th the new rankings (banzuke) for the Grand Sumo Nagoya Basho (first day on July 12th, IG Arena).

Asahifuji (24, Isegahama stable)—who has captured the divisional championship (kakudan yusho) undefeated for three consecutive tournaments with a flawless 21-match winning streak since his Jonokuchi debut at this year's New Year Basho (Hatsu Basho)—has been placed at East Makushita 11, well within the top 15 slots where a perfect zensho record is said to guarantee promotion to Juryo. Should he reach an undefeated 28-match winning streak, he will rank 1st all-time, and reaching new Juryo status in just 5 tournaments from his hatsu-dohyo would mark the fastest rise in history. The highly touted prospect, who gathered attention as the "strongest new disciple in history" by exceptionally receiving a former Yokozuna's ring name (shikona) right from Jonokuchi, will challenge this grand record.

The record for a consecutive winning streak from a Jonokuchi debut stands at a maximum of 27 by Sakumayama (later Jokoryu), followed by Itai with 26, Motobayashi (Oshoryu) with 24, and Tokitenku with 22. The fastest promotion to new Juryo from a Jonokuchi debut is 6 tournaments from the initial dohyo (Itai, Tosayutaka, Jokoryu, Enho).

Source: Daily Sports

# Nishonoseki stable wraps up training camp in Higashiosaka City; Onosato also shows signs of recovery

Grand Sumo's Nishonoseki stable wrapped up its immediate pre-tournament training camp in Higashiosaka City on the 27th, and Yokozuna Onosato (26, Nishonoseki stable) fought 10 consecutive training bouts against Makushita Hananoumi, finishing with a 6-4 record.

Onosato, who sat out the entirety of the Spring Basho due to a left shoulder injury, resumed training bouts against Sandanme-division wrestlers during the Oarai camp in Ibaraki on the 21st. On the 26th, he went through his first practice session against a fellow sekitori since before the Spring Basho, facing Juryo Shirokuma. On this day as well, he showed signs of gradual improvement, making use of his previously injured left-arm armlock/thrusting technique (ottsuke); however, when he couldn't press the attack all at once, he exposed his losing pattern of digging his own grave with his bad habit of slapping down (hataki). There was also a moment where he received advice from his mentor, Oyakata Nishonoseki (former Yokozuna Kisenosato), who told him, "The key is how you attack when the opponent is enduring."

Following the training session, he relocated to Anjo City, where the stable's lodging is located. He will step up his pace heading toward the Nagoya Basho (first day on July 12th, IG Arena) two weeks from now. The master seemed to feel the signs of recovery, commenting, "Since (Hananoumi) is an opponent against whom it's easy to use the left arm, it would be great if we can build up (the body) using this pattern. The losing pattern became quite visible too. (The 4 losses) were just cases where he couldn't endure, slapped down, and lost, so if we can correct that, we'll be fine."

Of course, it is also a fact that he has not yet returned to perfect condition, and the master emphasized that the adjustments in Nagoya will hold the key, stating, "We really need to gear up considerably. I want to make a solid plan for future adjustments." Onosato also looked ahead, saying, "I am getting better. In Nagoya, I want to consider things like going out for training at other stables (degeiko) while also monitoring my condition."

Source: Sponichi Annex

# The mother's "beloved ride" that supported the steep hills of Takao and a 9-year-old wallet... Fujiryoga heads to the Nagoya Basho as the first local Makuuchi wrestler in 13 years... "Winning" is the greatest filial piety

◇ Reporter Column "Free Talking"

Grand Sumo's Nagoya Basho will welcome its opening day on July 12th at the IG Arena in Kita Ward, Nagoya City. Fujiryoga (23, Fujishima stable), who fought for the championship until the very end during the Summer Basho, will step onto the dohyo as the first local Makuuchi wrestler from Aichi Prefecture in 13 years, since Tamaasuka (now Oyakata Otake).

When I visited the Fujishima stable in Arakawa Ward, Tokyo, where Fujiryoga belongs, for a report, my eyes caught the wrestlers' bicycles neatly lined up in front of the stable. Among them was an electric bicycle with the exact same manufacturer and color as mine.

After finishing the interview with Fujiryoga following his training, I brought up the topic of the bicycle. "That one is my bicycle." Coincidentally, Fujiryoga was the owner of that bicycle.

Upon asking, he told me that during his first year at Takushoku University, he inherited it from his mother, Carol, who lives in his family home in Kasugai City, Aichi Prefecture, and used to ride it.

The closest station to Takushoku University is JR Takao Station. When he moved into the sumo club dormitory, they bought him a regular "mamachari" bicycle, but one year was the absolute limit.

Since the university is located on top of a mountain, going to the station is a downhill slope where you can coast without pedaling even once. "On the other hand, the way back was tremendously exhausting. I simply couldn't endure it. A brand-new electric bicycle was too expensive for them to buy me, so I begged my parents and received the one my mother was using." The tires went flat a few times and the spokes broke, but he takes good care of it while making repairs, saying, "I've grown attached to it, so I will ride it until it can't be ridden anymore."

Carol also gifted him a wallet when he entered Minoshima High School. It has been 9 years since he started using it. The threads are fraying, but he says, "I am still using it today." While it's natural to cherish things given to you, he emphasizes, "I take special care of things my mother bought for me and things I received from my parents." Ever since the third term of his second year in junior high school, he left Aichi Prefecture to go on a sumo scholarship to Wakayama's Minoshima Junior High School (now Ariwa Junior High). For Fujiryoga, these items might be proof that he is walking alongside his mother.

The Fujishima stable's lodging for the Nagoya Basho is located in Kita Ward, Nagoya City. It is very close to Fujiryoga's family home. It's a 15-minute distance by electric bicycle. His repayment to his parents "is not gifts, but winning. Showing them that I have become admirable is the greatest filial piety," he says, looking forward to visiting home after the tournament.

However, regarding going to his family home, he adds, "I'll go by taxi. Otherwise, I'll end up sweating (laughs)." The battle in hot Nagoya is about to begin. (Grand Sumo Beat Writer · Takashi Kishimoto)

Chunichi Sports

# Makuuchi Asakoryu starts training immediately the day after returning from Paris tour: "I just ended up waking up"... After sitting out the Summer Basho due to a right knee injury, he heads toward competing in the Nagoya Basho

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Pointing toward the Grand Sumo Nagoya Basho (first day on July 12th, IG Arena), Makuuchi Asakoryu (Takasago stable) conducted training on the 18th at his stable located in Sumida Ward, Tokyo. He had only just returned to Japan on the night of the 17th from the Paris exhibition tour. "I thought about sleeping in late, but I just ended up waking up," he said with a wry smile. He performed basic exercises such as teppo (wooden pillar thrusting) and shiko (sumo stomping).

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During the Summer Basho, he sat out from the 7th day onward due to a "right knee anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury." He finished the tournament with a 3-4-8 record. Nevertheless, he is conditioning himself with the goal of competing in the Nagoya Basho. "If I weren't going to be able to compete in the Nagoya Basho, I wouldn't have gone to Paris in the first place, right?" he laughed it off. While he was unable to get in the kind of conditioning he wanted while in Paris, he will readjust during the Shizuoka training camp starting on the 20th.

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Hochi Shimbun

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Exclusive: London in talks to host return of sumo at Royal Albert Hall

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Sumo wrestling could return to the Royal Albert Hall by the end of the decade as talks between London and Tokyo edge towards a deal, City AM can reveal.

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London Mayor Sadiq Khan met the Japan Sumo Association in Tokyo this week following on from last year’s give-day Basho at the iconic Kensington arena.

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It was the first time grand tournament sumo had left Japan since the early 1990s – both events utilised the 5,200-capacity auditorium – with the wrestlers going viral while exploring London as tourists.

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City AM understands that the Mayor is close to agreeing a deal, with talks progressing well to see the event return to the capital before the end of the decade. It is understood that discussions are in a position whereby the tournament could return even earlier than 2030.

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Sumo back in London?

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Khan met Hakkaku Rijicho, the chairman of the Japan Sumo Association who received the Freedom of the City of London in April, as part of a wider trip across Asia.Sumo back in London?

On the trip, Khan said: “Hosting the Grand Sumo Tournament in our city last year was an incredibly proud moment for London. The sport, and the wrestlers themselves, captured the imagination of our city and proved once again that London is truly the sporting and cultural capital of the world.

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“London has hosted global events that every other major city would envy and, following last year’s fantastic tournament, we want to give this famous Japanese sport a home away from home, in London.

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“I look forward to working with the chair of the Japan Sumo Association in the future, as we build a more prosperous city for everyone.”

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Last year’s sumo tournament saw five consecutive sold-out evenings at the Royal Albert Hall, with fans keen to see a sport that so rarely leaves its native Japan.

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Source: City AM

𝐘𝐨𝐤𝐨𝐳𝐮𝐧𝐚 𝐇𝐨𝐬𝐡𝐨𝐫𝐲𝐮 𝐑𝐞𝐭𝐮𝐫𝐧𝐬 𝐟𝐫𝐨𝐦 𝐏𝐚𝐫𝐢𝐬, 𝐏𝐫𝐨𝐦𝐢𝐬𝐞𝐬 𝐒𝐮𝐦𝐨 𝐌𝐚𝐭𝐜𝐡 𝐰𝐢𝐭𝐡 𝐉𝐮𝐝𝐨 𝐋𝐞𝐠𝐞𝐧𝐝 𝐓𝐞𝐝𝐝𝐲 𝐑𝐢𝐧𝐞𝐫

Following the conclusion of the Grand Sumo Paris performance, Japan Sumo Association Chairman Hakkaku, Yokozuna Hoshoryu, and others returned to Japan on the 17th, landing at Haneda Airport. The event was held on the 13th and 14th, marking sumo's return to Paris for the first time in 31 years. Yokozuna Onosato and his entourage are scheduled to return on the 18th.

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"The bread was delicious, and I was so happy to see the Eiffel Tower," said Hoshoryu, who was visiting Paris for the first time. On the second and final day of the event, he won the tournament featuring top-tier makuuchi wrestlers.

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Teddy Riner, the French three-time Olympic gold medalist in the men's over-100kg judo division, also attended the final day to watch the bouts. Riner reportedly plans to visit Japan in September. Hoshoryu, who has a background in judo himself, is highly anticipating their reunion, sharing: "When I told him, 'Let's have a sumo match when you come to Japan,' he replied, 'Let's do it!'"

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@italianozeki