===============================
July 2021 Basho
Introduction and Previews (including 2 new Fred Pinkerton height x weight scatter plots)--links to all player information (ranking, prefecture or country of origin, date of birth, stable, height, weight)
Summary; Cumulative Statistics; Selected Comparisons with May 2021 Basho and Index to all Videos and Photos (Scroll to the bottom of the page)
Note: Due to technical issues, the links from Day 12-15 do not contain a link to the Summary Page. A link to the Summary page is available from the Introduction and Day 1-11. If and when I find a solution to the technical issues, I will link Pages 12-15 to the summary page. Again, the Summary page can only be reached from the Introduction and Days 1-11 at this time. Apologies for any inconvenience caused.
===============================
The July 2021 Basho (Nagoya) was contested from July 4-18, 2021. There were over 2,300 matches contested and 6 Division Champions crowned. The big stories involved the Yokozuna (The new, Terunofuji (O1e), was promoted to 73rd Yokozuna. The present 69th Yokozuna, Hakuho (Y1e), participated in all 15 of his matches for the first time since March 2020. In that Basho he won for the 44th time. In this one he won for the 45th time. And he introduced the new Yokozuna to the club by beating him convincingly in the final match of the final Day. Hakuho was 15-0, the 16th time he has had a perfect record.
Summary article: A Tale of Two Sumo Comebacks, by Morita Hiroshi (NHK).
The best print coverage I have found is at the Basho Archive of Tachiai.org. There is also a link to Basho archives going back to November of 2020.
-------
Notable: (Copied from Day 15 Blog Report)
And so it came down to the final match of the final Day. And when it was over, the Boss was still the Boss. After missing all but two matches of the last five Basho due to injury, Covid, and knee surgery. After being repeatedly admonished by the Sumo Association to wrestle or retire. After having his elder stock (pension) threatened. Hakuho (Y1e) returned to action. Did he ever. He won his 45th Tournament, 13 more than any other Rikishi. He scored a perfect 15-0, the 16th time he has done that. He won with a perfect score at the age of 36. And he pretty much dismantled Terunofuji (O1e), who has been wrestling so well that he is certain to be promoted to Yokozuna in spite of the loss.
And what did Hakuho get for his trouble? Lots of criticism of his tactics. "Unworthy of a Yokozuna" they said. Using forearm shivers and slaps are tactics "below a Yokozuna" they said. All Hakuho did was win, relentlessly win.
The Technique Prize went to Hoshoryu (M5w) who used 6 different Kimarite (Finishing Moves) in his 10 wins. Hakuho used 11 different Kimarite in his 15 wins (.733). He forced opponents out, threw them out, hooked them down, crushed them out, and body slammed them (Abisitaoshi--Backward Force Down), among others. He out psyched them and out fought them. He was in trouble twice (see Day 1 and Day 4), but won anyway. A couple of times he played with them like a cat plays with a mouse (including once when he did this to an Ozeki). And in the final match, had not Terunofuji gone down, his arm would have been snapped like a twig.
That is what Hakuho did. And if he was "undignified" in victory (showing a bit of emotion), so be it. If they want to get rid of him so badly, let someone beat him, win a Tournament in which he participates.
Does all this have something to do with the fact that he is a "foreign born"? That is in the eye of the beholder. All that a new Sumo fan who has been priviledged to watch the tag end of the greatest career in Sumo History (look it up if you don't believe that) can say is WOW! What a performance!
Here are the other "Darwin" match RESULTS. For lower rankers, these matches were crucial in order to avoid dropping to 2nd Division (Juryo).
Meisei (K1w) (7-7) v Kagayaki (M12w) (7-7).
Meisei's san'yaku Rank was on the line.
Meisei (K1w) (8-7); Kagayaki (M12w) (7-8)
Takanosho (M2e) (7-7) v Chiyonokuni (M16e) (7-7).
Chiyonokuni's Top Division standing was on the line.
Takanosho (M2e) (8-7); Chiyonokuni (M16e) (7-8)
Onosho (M6e) (7-7) v Terutsuyoshi (M10w) (7-7)
Terutsuyoshi (M10w) (8-7); Onosho (M6e) (7-8)
Chiyonoo (M14w) (7-7) v Ichiyamamoto (M17e) (7-7)
Both Rikishis' Top Division standing may have been on the line. Certainly, Ichiyamamoto's was.
Ichiyamamoto (M117e) (8-7); Chiyonoo (M14w) (7-8)
On the other side of the coin, Kotoeko (M4e), who lost 11 consecutive matches (2-12), was desperate to finish on a high note against Tochinoshin (M12e)(6-8).
Tochinoshin (M12e) 7-8; Kotoeko (M4e) (2-13)
Quotable (Kyodo News)
I feel really great. My right knee was not acting as I wanted, but I just wanted to focus on this one bout.
.
At this age, I didn't think I would win the tournament with a perfect record. I'm just relieved.
It's wonderful. It's something I'll truly remember, a big moment in my sumo career,
I felt the pressure. I could picture the kanji characters for 'retirement' approaching right near me. So that made me more driven than I had ever been.
(Terunofuji) fought with very consistent sumo. I expect him to continue as a new yokozuna.
Hakuho (Y1e) reflecting on his 45th Yusho.
The reason I lost was that I was not good enough, I did all I could. Going forward I want to get better
Terunofuji (O1e, soon to by Y1w).
----
I'm just relieved. I was starting to have some doubts (before the bout) but I was able to move around well on the dohyo,
Meisei (K1w) reflecting on the Day 15 win that earned him a Kachi-koshi in his first San'yaku (Top Rank) Basho. September will be his 2nd San'yaku Basho.
----
I wasn't thinking about it (Gino-sho--Technique Prize) at the time, but I'm glad to receive it.
Hoshoryu (M5w) reflecting on his 10-5 Basho. He used 6 different Kimarite (Finishing Moves). Hoshoryu is the nephew of 68th Yokozuna Asashoryu.
-------
Terunofuji Yokozuna Promotion Ceremony (Japanese Sumo Association Youtube) (Japanese, about 36 minutes)
Chris Sumo Youtube
Terunofuji Yokozuna Promotion (English--Highlights--at his stable (4:12)
-------
Hakuho (Y1e--14-0) v Terunofuji (O1e--14-0)
Y1e Hakuho (15-0) defeated O1e Terunofuji (14-1) by Kotenage (Arm Lock Throw) in 19.2 seconds.
Match Videos:
Chris Sumo Youtube:
NHK Summary with video of all 15 Hakuho bouts (NHK Youtube) (ADDED AUGUST 20, 2021)
---
Summary: Hakuho v Terunofuji, Day by Day
Key: Time of match (seconds); Ranking, Winner (cumulative record); Kimarite; Ranking; Loser (cumulative record
*=only time Kimarite (Finishing Move) was used in the Makuuchi (Top Division) Basho
Day 1:
08.2s O1e Terunofuji (1-0) yorikiri M1e Endo (0-1)
09.2s Y1e Hakuho (1-0) kakenage* K1w Meisei (0-1)
Day 2
24.6s O1e Terunofuji (2-0) yorikiri K1e Wakatakakage (0-2)
05.6s Y1e Hakuho (2-0) uwatedashinage M1e Endo (0-2)
Day 3
52.5s O1e Terunofuji (3-0) kainahineri* M2e Takanosho (0-3)
02.8s Y1e Hakuho (3-0) sukuinage M1w Daieisho (0-3)
Day 4
14.1s O1e Terunofuji (4-0) yorikiri M1w Daieisho (0-4)
08.9s Y1e Hakuho (4-0) tsukiotoshi M2e Takanosho (0-4)
Day 5:
12.5s O1e Terunofuji (5-0) kotenage M3e Hokutofuji (3-2)
08.7s Y1e Hakuho (5-0) yorikiri M2w Ichinojo (3-2)
Day 6
02.3s O1e Terunofuji (6-0) yorikiri M2w Ichinojo (3-3)
03.1s Y1e Hakuho (6-0) hatakikomi M3e Hokutofuji (3-3)
Day 7
09.3s O1e Terunofuji (7-0) yorikiri M4e Kotoeko (2-5)
64.9s Y1e Hakuho (7-0) uwatenage M3w Tobizaru (3-4)
Day 8
09.5s O1e Terunofuji (8-0) hatakikomi M3w Tobizaru (3-5)
07.6s Y1e Hakuho (8-0) yorikiri M4e Kotoeko (2-6)
Day 9
08.7s O1e Terunofuji (9-0) yorikiri M5e Okinoumi (5-4)
07.8s Y1e Hakuho (9-0) yorikiri M4w Chiyotairyu (2-7)
Day 10
02.1s O1e Terunofuji (10-0) yorikiri M4w Chiyotairyu (2-8)
04.1s Y1e Hakuho (10-0) yorikiri M5e Okinoumi (5-5)
Day 11
02.8s O1e Terunofuji (11-0) yorikiri S1w Mitakeumi (6-5)
10.9s Y1e Hakuho (11-0) yoritaoshi K1e Wakatakakage (3-8)
Day 12
10.9s O1e Terunofuji (12-0) kimetaoshi* K1w Meisei (6-6)
26.6s Y1e Hakuho (12-0) yorikiri S1w Mitakeumi (6-6)
Day 13
09.7s O1e Terunofuji (13-0) oshidashi O2e Shodai (7-6)
02.4s Y1e Hakuho (13-0) tottari S1e Takayasu (7-4-2)
Day 14
17.1s O1e Terunofuji (14-0) yorikiri S1e Takayasu (7-5-2)
17.5s Y1e Hakuho (14-0) abisetaoshi* O2e Shodai (7-7)
Day 15
19.2s Y1e Hakuho (15-0) kotenage O1e Terunofuji (14-1)
Match Time
Hakuho v Terunofuji
Hakuho
Total Time: 3 minutes, 19.3 seconds (199.3)
Longest: 64.7 s (v Tobizaru, Day 7)
Shortest: 2.4 s (v Takayasu, Day 13)
Average: 13.3 s
Median: 8.7 s
Terunofuji
Total Time: 3 minutes, 23.5 seconds (203.5)
Longest: 52.5 s (v Takanosho, Day 3)
Shortest: 2.1 s (v Chiyotairyu, Day 10)
Average: 13.6 s
Median: 9.7 s
Time (seconds/#)
Hakuho Terunofuji
0-4.9.......4............3
5-9.9.......6............5
10-19.9.....3............5
20-29.9.....1............1
50-59.9.....0............1
60-69.9.....1............0
---
Special Prizes:
Gino-Sho (Technique Prize): Hoshoryu (M5w--10-5, 1st Gino-Sho)
Chris Sumo Youtube Video
Kanto-Sho (Fighting Spirit Prize): Kotonowaka (M11w, 1st Kanto-Sho)
Chris Sumo Youtube Video
Shukun-Sho (Outstanding Performance Prize): None awarded
---
Other Championships:
Juryo (Division 2): Mitoryu (J6w--12-3)
The match that clinched the Yusho
Match video
On August 14, Chris Sumo Youtube uploaded a short video that has the final, division clinching, or playoff matches in the four lowest divisions. The matches are in the following order: Division 4,3,5,6.
Sandanme (Division 4): Hatooka (Sd16w--6-0--7-0) v Sagatsukasa (Sd77e--6-0--6-1).
39 year old Sagatukasa, a veteran of 17 years, 917 matches (467-452-21 absences) and 103 Basho, who reached as high as M9w, retired shortly after this match.
Jonokuchi (Division 6): Shunrai (Jk23w--7-0)
Day 13 (6-0--7-0) v Mogamizakura (Jk4w--5-1--5-2)
---
Sekitori Leader Board Day by Day (Division 1--Makuuchi and 2--Juryo) (Sumo Forum)
Lower Division Leader Board Selected Days (Division 3--Makushita, 4--Sandamne, 5--Jonidan, and 6--Jonokuchi (Sumo Forum)
Stable Report (Sumo Forum) (See bottom of Page for Ichimon Report)
Note: Ichimon (Stable Family) scores added to 2329-2333
Kensho Report (Sumo Forum)
This is an accounting of the envelopes received by winning Rikishi in matches that are also sponsored by (usually) commercial entities. Winner gets all envelopes. Each envelope contains approximately 500 US Dollars. How the money is split is complex and links to an explanation can be found in the Introductory Blog post.
13 finishing moves were used only once in the Tournament. One move was used in Makuuchi (Top Division).
Records and Notable Achievements of the July Basho (all Divisions) (Source: Sumo Forum)
From Hakuho's 899th Yokozuna win to Shonanzakora's 104th consecutive loss
---
Number of winning Finishing Moves as a percent of all winning finishing moves) (July Basho--10 wins or more)
Hakuho (Y1e): 15-0
Winning: 11 of 15 (.733)
Kakenage 1; Uwatedashinage 1; Sukuinage 1; Tsukiotoshi 1; Yorikiri; 5 Hatakikomi 1; Uwatenage 1; Yoritaoshi 1; Tottari 1; Abisetaoshi 1; Kotenage 1
Terunofuji: (O1e): 14-1
Winning: 6 of 14 (.429): Yorikiri 9; Kainahineri 1; Kotenage 1; Hatakikomi 1; Kimetaoshi 1; Oshidashi 1
Losing: 1: Kotenage
Kotonowaka (M11w): 12-3
Winning: 8 of 12 (.667): Yorikiri 5; Hikiotoshi 1; Oshidashi 1; Tsukiotoshi 1; Uwatenineri 1; Tsukidashi 1; Uwatenage 1; Shitatenage 1
Losing: 3: Okuridashi (Tamawashi M10e--4-0) 1; Uwatenage (Chiyonoo M14w--3-5); Oshidashi (Shimanoumi M9w--6-5)
Tamawashi (M10e): 11-4
Winning 4 of 11 (.364): Oshidashi 6; Okuridashi 3; Kotenage 1; Oshitaoshi 1
Losing 4: Oshidashi (Aioyama M8w--2-3); Hikiotoshi (Terutsuyoshi M10w--2-4); Hatakikomi (Chiyoshoma M7w--5-4); Shitatenage (Tobizaru M3w--4-11)
Ichinojo (M2w): 10-5
Winning: 4 of 10 (.400): Yorikiri 5; Hatakikomi 2; Oshidashi 2; Tsukiotoshi 1
Losing 2 of 5: Yorikiri 4 (Takayasu S1e--1-0-2; Hakuho Y1e--5-0; Terunofuji O1e--6-0; Hokutofuji M3e--7-5); Shitatenage (Hoshoryu M5w--9-4)
Hoshoryu (M5w): 10-5
Winning 6 of 10 (.600): Oshidashi 3; Shitatenage 3; Yorikiri 1; Sotogake 1; Yoritaoshi 1; Hatakikomi 1
Losing: 5: Makiotoshi (Okinoumi M5e--2-1); Uwatedashinage (Chiyoshoma M7w--3-3); Hatakikomi (Aoiyama M8w--4-4); Uwatenage (Hidenoumi M9e--6-6); Yorikiri (Mitakeumi S1w--8-6)
Ura (M13w): 10-5
Winning: 5 of 10 (.500): Tsukiotoshi 2; Yorikiri 3; Oshidashi 3; Tottari 1; Sukuinage 1
Losing: 3 of 5: Yoritaoshi (Chiyonoo M14w--1-1); Oshidashi 3 (Kagayaki M12w--3-1; Kotonowaka M11w 4-1; Ishiura (M16w--5-3); Honsuku (disqualification--pulling the top knot) Kaisei M11e--6-7)
---
Finishing Moves (299 TOTAL) Note: finishing move links below link to short NHK videos demonstrating the technique.
Key: Finishing Move: #(July--29 winning Kimarite) (299 TOTAL NON FORFEIT MATCHES; #(May--25 winning Kimarite) (276 TOTAL NON FORFEIT MATCHES
Source: Sumo Reference Bout Queries (divide by 2):
Frontal Force Out (Yorikiri)............91-65
Frontal Push Out (Oshidashi)............61-67
Slap Down (Hatakikomi)..................30-26
Thrust Down (Tsukiotoshi)...............18-19
Over Arm Throw (Uwatenage)..............14-12
Hand Pull Down (Hikiotoshi).............11-11
Under Arm Throw (Shitatenage)...........9---3
Beltless Arm Throw (Sukuinage)..........8---6
Arm Lock Throw (Kotenage)...............7---7
Rear Push Out (Okuridashi)..............7--12
Frontal Crush Out (Yoritaoshi)..........7--10
Frontal Thrust Out (Tsukidashi).........6---6
Pulling Over Arm Throw (Uwatedashinage).5---7
Frontal Push Down (Oshitaoshi)..........4---6
Under Shoulder Swing Down (Katasukashi).3---1
Twisting Backward Knee Trip (Kirikaeshi)2---0
Arm Bar Throw (Tottari).................2---0
Backward Force Down (Abisetaoshi).......1---2
Backwards Belt Throw (Harimanage).......1---0
2 Handed Arm Twist Down (Kainahineri)...1---0
Hooking Inner Thigh Throw (Kakenage)....1---2
Minor Inner Foot-Sweep (Kekaeshi).......1---0
Arm Barring Force Down (Kimetaoshi).....1---0
Ovr Thigh Scooping Bdy Drp (Komatasukui)1---0
Twist Down (Makiotoshi).................1---0
Outside Leg Trip (Sotogake).............1---1
Frontal Lift Out (Tsuridashi)...........1---0
Backward Pivot Throw (Utchari)..........1---0
Twisting Over Arm Throw (Uwatehineri)...1---0
Leg Pick (Ashitori).....................0---1
Arm Barring Force Out (Kimedashi).......0---2
Rear Push Down (Okuritaoshi)............0---2
Pulling Und Arm Throw(Shitatedashinage).0---4
Twisting Under Arm Throw (Shitatehineri)0---2
Frontal Thrust Down (Tsukitaoshi).......0---2
Inside Leg Trip (Uchigake)..............0---1
Non-technique (Losing Technique), Disqualification, Forfeit)
Forward Step Out (Isamiashi)............1---0
Knee Touch Down (Tsukihiza).............0---1
Disqualification (Hansoku) .............1---1
Fusen (forfeit).........................2---3
---
Cumulative Match Times (July--299 matches)
Total Time: 57 minutes, 50.9 seconds (3470.9)
Longest Match: 179.3 s (2 minutes, 59.3 s) (Kiribayama v Takayasu) (Day 12)
Shortest Match: 0.7 s (Aoiyama v Daieisho) (Day 14)
Average Time (299 matches): 11.6 s
+++
Cumulative Match Times (May--279 matches)
Total Time: 49 minutes, 22.6 seconds (2962.6 s)
Longest Match: Day 8: 145.8 s (2 minutes, 25.8 s) (Takayasu v Kiribayama)
Shortest Match: 0.5 s: Day 12: (Hokutofuji v Daieisho); Day 15: (Chiyotairyu v Onosho)
Average Time: 10.6 seconds
+++
Cumulative Match Times (March--265 matches)
Total Time: 56 minutes, 0.6 seconds (3360.06
Longest Match--March only: 176.9 s (2 minutes, 56.9 s) (Day 7) (Takayasu v Takarafuji)
Shortest Match--March only 0.5 seconds (Day 1) (Midorifuji v Hoshoryu)
Average Match: 11.4 seconds
+++
July(299)--May(279)--March(295)--January(265)
Time/Matches
July May March January
0-4.9 seconds: 100(.334)---98(.351)--107(.363)--84(.317)
5-9.9 seconds: 93(.311)---93(.333)---91(.308)--96(.362)
10-19.9 seconds: 70(.234)---57(.204)---63(.214)--58(.219)
20-29.9 seconds: 17(,056)---17(.061)---19(.064)--13(.049)
30-39.9 seconds: 10(.033)----5(.017)----6(.020)---4(.035)
40-49.9 seconds: 0----------3(.011)----2(.007)---1(.004)
50-59.9 seconds: 3(.010)----4(.014)----1(.003)---3(.011)
60-69.9 seconds: 2(.007)----0----------3(.010)---1(.004)
70-79.9 seconds: 2(.007)----0----------0---------0
80-89.9 seconds: 1(.003)----0----------0---------0
90-99.9 seconds 0----------0----------0---------2(.008)
110-119.9 seconds: 0----------1(.004)----0---------0
130-139.0 seconds: 0----------0----------0---------1(.004)
140-149.9 seconds: 0----------1(.004)----1(.003)---1(.004)
150-159.9 seconds: 0----------0----------1(.003)---0
160-169.9 seconds: 0----------0----------0---------1(.004)
170-179.9 seconds: 1(.003)----0----------1(.003)---0
Match time information is archived Honbasho Talk Forum at Sumo Forum. (See Bout Length and scroll the Forum for previous Basho).
---
Kachi-koshi/Make-koshi (8 or more wins--promotion in rank/8 or more losses--demotion)
Key: Basho Day on which the minimum record was achieved; Rikishi; Rank; Current Record
*=Promoted from Juryo after the March 2021 Basho
R=Rookie
Kachi-koshi (20) (188-112)
Day 8: Hakuho (Y1e) (15-0); Terunofuji (O1e) (14-1)
Day 10: Kotonowaka (M11w) (12-3)
Day 11: Ichinojo (M2w) (10-5); Hoshoryu (M5w) (10-5); Tamawashi (M10e) (11-4)
Day 12: Kiribayama (M6w) (9-6); Takarafuji (M8e) (8-7); Ura (M13w) (10-5)
Day 13: Hokutofuji (M3e) (8-7); Terutsuyoshi (M10w) (8-7); Ishiura (M10w) (9-6)
Day 14: Mitakeumi (S1w) (8-7); Chiyoshoma (M7w) (8-7); Shimanoumi (M9w) (8-7); Tsurugisho (M15e) (8-7)
Day 15: Shodai (O2e) (8-7); Meisei (K1w) (8-7); Takanosho (M2e) (8-7); Ichiyamamoto*R (M17e) (8-7)
Make-koshi (22) (111-180-37)
Day 8: Takakeisho (O1w) (1-2-12); Asanoyama (0-0-15); Endo (1-4-10)
Day 9: Daieisho (M1w) (5-10)
Day 10: Kotoeko (M4e) (2-13); Chiyotairyu (M4w) (4-11); Myogiryu (M7e) (5-10); Daiamami (M14e) (4-11)
Day 11: Wakatakakage (K1e) (5-10); Tobizaru (M3w) (4-11); Tokushoryu* (M15w) (7-8)
Day 12: Aoiyama (M8w) (7-8); Tochinoshin (M12e) (7-8); Chyomaru (M13e) (6-9)
Day 13: Okinoumi (M5e) (5-10); Onosho (M6e) (7-8)
Day 14: Hidenoumi (M9e) (7-8); Kaisei (M11e) (6-9)
Day 15: Takayasu (S1e) (7-6-2); Kagayaki (M12e) (7-8); Chiyonoo* (M14w) (7-8); Chiyonokuni (M16e) (7-8)
++++
Top Rank Wins
Maegashira v san'yaku Standings
Rookie
Juryo Substitute Standings
Top Rank Wins
15-0: Hakuho (Y1e); Terunofuji (O1e)
14-1: Terunofuji (O1e)
8-7: Shodai (O2e); Mitakeumi (S1w); Meisei (K1w) (includes 1 forfeit win)
7-6-2: Takayasu (S1e)
5-10: Wakatakakage (K1e)
0-0-15: Asanoyama (O2w)
1-2-12: Takakeisho (O1w) (includes 1 forfeit loss)
Total: 66-40-29 (.623)
Maegashira v san'yaku
Day 15(Cumulative)
Onosho (M6e) (1-0)
Ura (M13w) (1-0)
Hoshoryu (M5w) (2-1)
Ichinojo (M2w) (5-3)
Kiribayama (M6w) (1-1)
Chiyotairu (M4w) (1-2)
Takanosho (M2e) (2-5)
Hokutofuji (M3e) (2-5)
Endo (M1e) (1-4) (incl forfeit loss)
Tobizaru (M3w) (1-5)
Daieisho (M1w) (1-7)
Kagayaki (M12w) (0-1)
Okinoumi (M5e) (0-4)
Kotoeko (M4e) (0-6)
July Cumulative: 18-44 (.290)
May Cumulative: 22-45 (.328)
March Cumulative: 21-47 (.309)
Rookie
Ichiyamamoto
(1-0); (1-1); (2-1); (3-1); (4-1); (4-2); (5-2); (6-2)
(7-2); (7-3); (7-4); (7-5); (7-6); (7-7); (8-7)
Chris Sumo Youtube Video
Video of Ichiyamamoto's Basho, with commentary (all matches except Day 10-11)
Juryo substitutes
Day 3: Yutakayama (J1e) (0-1) (2-1) lost to Ichiyamamoto (2-1)
Day 6: Shohozan (J1w) (0-1) (0-6) lost to Ishiura (3-3)
Day 7: Kyokutaisei (J2e) (0-1) (3-4) lost to Chiyonokuni (5-2)
Day 8: Akua (J2w) (1-0) (5-3) defeated Tokoshoryu (3-5)
Day 9: Wakamotoharu (J3e) (0-1) (5-4) lost to Tsurugisho (6-3)
Day 10: Yutakayama (J1e) (1-1) (9-1) defeated Chiyonoo (4-6)
Day 11: Shohozan (J1w) (0-2) (3-8) lost to Daiamami (3-8)
Day 12: Akua (J2w) (1-1) (6-6) lost to Chiyonokumi (7-5)
Day 13: Kyokutaisei (J2e) (0-2) (7-6) lost to Tokushoryu (5-8)
Day 14: Wakamotoharu (J3e) (0-2) (7-7) lost to Daiamami (4-10)
Day 15: Akua (J2w) (1-2) (8-7) lost to Ishiura (9-6)
Cumulative: 2-9 (.182)
=======================
=======================
INDEX TO VIDEOS AND PHOTOS
You can follow almost the entire Basho for the leaders. But he also intersperses Lower Division matches into the videos so that you get a feel for all of the Basho, not just Makuuchi. The Japanese Sumo Association provides 2 match videos per day (more at the end of the Basho). They almost always provide one Juryo match, so that you can follow that Tournament. And as a special treat, Tachiai.org followed the complete Jonokuchi (Division 6) Tournament and provided selected match videos. All in all, this is the first Basho I have followed where the videos have not disappeared when NHK removed them from its site.
Below you will find an index to all available archived, videos for this Basho. It is compiled from the individual daily Blog posts. It is presented in chronological order from Day 1-15. For new fans, the best way to "get your feet wet", with regard to following a Basho, is to follow along with the Chris Sumo Youtube videos. For this Basho he produced a video for every Day but two (Day 10 and 11). They are high definition videos shot at the venue. Each one is betwe 5 and 15 minutes long. He provides well written English match summaries to accompany the matches. He is, in my opinion, as good as any English analyst of the sport that you will find. You can follow almost the entire Basho for the leaders. But he also intersperses Lower Division matches into the videos so that you get a feel for all of the Basho, not just Makuuchi.
The Japanese Sumo Association provides 2 match videos per day (more at the end of the Basho). They almost always provide one Juryo match, so that you can follow that Tournament. The videos have no commentary, but do allow for a bit of pre match psychology and give yet another aspect to this sport.
And as a special treat, Tachiai.org followed the complete Jonokuchi (Division 6) Tournament and provided selected match videos. All in all, this is the first Basho I have followed where the videos have not disappeared when NHK removed them from its site.
Daily Photo Feature links source: Nikkansports
There are photos the Day's Makuuchi matches, with selected Rikishi quotes (Japanese)
=======================
DAY 1: JULY 4, 2021
Chris Sumo Youtube.
Day 1:
Japanese Sumo Association Youtube
2. Enho (J5e) v Kotoshoho (J5w) (this is a Juryo (2nd Divsion) match. Both these Rikishi have been in the Makuuchi Division and are trying to get back to it. Kotshoho is in the blue belt.
Tachiai.org is following the Jonokuchi Division Basho of this Tournament. Jonokuchi is Division 6, the lowest division, non salaried. Today their Day 1 report linked to the first bout of the first day:
Shonanzakura (Jk24w) v Byakuen (Jk25w). These are the two lowest ranking Rikishi in all of Sumo. Shonanzakura is a 6 year veteran of Jonokuchi who has fought in 34 Basho, widely recognized as the worst Rikishi in Sumo. At present he has a 98 match losing streak. His overall record after today is 3-232-1 absence. He is 22 years old, 179 cm (5'10") 82 Kg (181 lbs). Byakuen, age 16, began his career today. He is 5'7" and 148 lbs. It was thought that Shonanzakura, with his height, weight, and experience, would have as good a chance as any to break his losing streak. But Byakuen was having none of it, getting his career off to a rousing start.
+++
DAY 2: JULY 5, 2021
Chris Sumo Youtube
2. Daishoho (J12e--0-1) v Abi (J14e--1-0) (this is a Juryo (2nd Divsion) match. Abi is in the black belt.
Abi was a regular Top Division Rikishi (16 Basho, 2 Special Prizes, 2 Kinboshi--gold star wins by a Rank and Filer [Maegashira] against a Yokozuna). He fell out of favor with the Sumo authorities for various infractions and was suspended from July 2020 to March 2021 (with a drop in ranki all the way to Makushita 56w [3rd Division, non-salaried]. Since coming back he has won consecutive Makushita Yusho (Championships) with perfect scores of 7-0. This is his first Basho back in Juryo (2nd Division--salaried), and it will be interesting to see how long it takes him to get back to the Top Division.
+++
DAY 3: JULY 6, 2021
Chris Sumo Youtube
1. Chiyomaru (M13e) v Ura (M13w) Ura is in the salmon belt.
2. Takagenji (J6e--1-1) v Kotoshoho (J5w--0-2) (this is a Juryo (2nd Divsion) match. Kotoshoho is in the blue belt
Takagenji has been in two Makuuchi (Top Division) Basho. He participated in the July and September 2019 Basho with a 4-11 record in each. In a career that began in 2013, he has participated in 20 Juryo (2nd Division) Tournaments. Kotoshoho rocketed up the Banzuke (rankings), beginning his career in 2018 and reaching Top Division in July of 2020. He started well, with a 26-19 record in his first three Basho. He reached as high as M3e, but, as with most high ranking Maegashira, found the going much more difficult having to face several san yaku (Top Rank) Rikishi. He was 2-13 and 1-6 with 8 absences, dropping back to Juryo in May 2021. He was 7-8 in that Basho. At age 21 he has a bright future, but it is hard knocks for everyone in Sumo.
Tachiai.org is following the Jonokuchi Division Basho of this Tournament. Jonokuchi is Division 6, the lowest division, non salaried.
Mukainakano (Jk20w--0-0) v Byakuen (Jk25w--1-0). After winning against Shonanzakura in his first Jonokuchi match (see Day 1), Byuken fought 18 year old debutant Mukainakano. Mukainakano is 90 kg heavier (377 lbs as opposed to 180) than Shonanzakura. Byakuen, to refresh your memory, is 5'7" 148 lbs, 229 lbs in arrears. Alas, the outcome was what you might expect, perhaps delaying Byakuen's Yokozuna aspirations for the moment.
Note. After this match the video contains several other Jonokuchi bouts.
+++
DAY 4: JULY 7, 2021
Chris Sumo Youtube
1. Shodai (O2e) v Wakatakakage (K1e) (Shodai begins on the left)
2. Oho (J12w) v Abi (J14e) (this is a Juryo (2nd Divsion) match. Abi is in the black belt.
Abi won his 18th consecutive match since coming back from suspension. He won the March and May Makushita (3rd Division) Basho (7-0 in both) and now is 4-0 in his first Juryo (2nd Division). At this pace he could return to the Top Division as early as January 2022.
Tachiai.org is following the Jonokuchi Division Basho of this Tournament. Jonokuchi is Division 6, the lowest division, non salaried.
Mukainakano (Jk20w--0-0) v Byakuen (Jk25w--1-0). After winning against Shonanzakura in his first Jonokuchi match (see Day 1), Byuken fought 18 year old debutant Mukainakano. Mukainakano is 90 kg heavier (377 lbs as opposed to 180) than Shonanzakura. Byakuen, to refresh your memory, is 5'7" 148 lbs, 229 lbs in arrears. Alas, the outcome was what you might expect, perhaps delaying Byakuen's Yokozuna aspirations for the moment.
Note. After this match the video contains several other Jonokuchi bouts.
+++
DAY 5: JULY 8, 2021
Chris Sumo Youtube
1. Shodai (O2e) v Tobizaru (M3w) (Shodai begins on the left)
2. Nishikifuji (J11e--2-2) v Abi (J14e--4-0) (this is a Juryo (2nd Division) match. Abi is in the black belt.
Abi won his 19th consecutive match since coming back from suspension. He won the March and May Makushita (3rd Division) Basho (7-0 in both) and now is 5-0 in his first Juryo (2nd Division). At this pace he could return to the Top Division as early as January 2022. Nishikifuji began his career in November 2016 and rose to Makushita (3rd Division--no salary) by November of 2017. It took him 16 Basho to break into Juryo (2nd Division--salaried). After slipping back to Makushita for one Basho in January of 2021 (in which he lost a playoff for the Championship), he returned to Juryo and has gone 15-15 in the last two Basho before this one. He is 24 and has fought 228 matches going into this Basho.
+++
DAY 6: JULY 9, 2021
Chris Sumo Youtube
July 2021, Day 6: Ideals v reality Chris holds back nothing in his criticism of Ichinojo's (M2w) effort against Terunofuji (O1e)
Japanese Sumo Association Youtube
1. Ura (M13w) v Ichiyamamoto (M17e) (Ura is in the Salmon belt) Ichiyamamoto finds that things aren't so easy in the Top Division as the Rookie's 3 match winning streak comes to a quick and ignominious end.
2. Nishikifuji (J11e--2-3) v Kaisho (J13e--4-1)--this is a Juryo (2nd Division) match. Kaisho begins on the right.
Kaisho began his career in 2013. He has reached as high as J11e, and is coming off an 8 Basho sojourn in Makushita (Division 3--non salaried). His Juryo ranking (14 is the lowest) requires that he earn a Kachi-koshi (winning record) to remain in Juryo. The gulf between Juryo and Makushita is in some ways the largest gulf in all of Sumo, as it is the difference between a salary and no salary (only room and board and a small stipend). From May 2013 through July of 2019, Kaisho resided in the Purgatory of the bottom 4 (non salaried) Divisions. Others have been there longer and reached salaried level, but 6 years is a long time. When he finally reached Juryo for the first time, he was 13-17 in two Basho before being demoted back to Makushita, where he resided for another 8 Basho, the last 3 of which yielded a 16-5 record that brought him back to Juryo for this Basho. He wants no more trips back to Makushita and his 4-1 start (including this impressive victory) has him 4 wins away from a promotion toward his ultimate goal, Makuuchi (Top Division), and away from the lower divisions.
Nishikifuji began his Sumo journey in November of 2016 and he reached Juryo for the first time in September 2020 on the back of 2 Basho where he was 12-2 with a Makushita Yusho (Championship) on his resume. However, a disastrous 3-12 in November of 2020 sent him back to Makushita. A 6-1 (lost in a playoff) yo-yo-ed him back to Juryo in March. Since then he is 17-19 in Juryo. But at 2-4 in this Basho, his is a precarious position, as a bad Make-koshi (losing record) could yo-yo him back to Makushita again. How will he respond? These are some of the dramatic threads that run through every Basho. A lot goes on that is not under the bright TV lights.
Tachiai.org Jonokuchi Match Day 3 (includes match video of 5 matches where all Rikishi are 2-0 going into the match)
+++
DAY 7: JULY 10, 2021
Chris Sumo Youtube
1. Ura (M13w) v Tsurugisho (M15e) (Ura is in the Salmon belt)
Ura entered at 3-3, Tsurugisho at 4-2. Both (but especially Tsurugisho) need Kachi-koshi (winning record) to guarantee retention in Makuuchi (Top Division)
2. Abi (J14e--6-0) v Daishomaru (J11w--2-4) -this is a Juryo (2nd Division) match. Abi begins on the left.
Abi has now won 20 consecutive matches (and one forfeit) since coming back from his 3 1/2 Basho suspension. He has progressed from Makushita 56w (3rd Division--non salary) to Ms7e to Juryo 14e (2nd Division--salaried), the second lowest ranking in the Division. At this rate, and with consecutive Ms Yusho now on his resume, it will still take him at least two more Basho to get back to Makuuchi (Top Division). These are the rules and he must abide by them, but it makes for a lot of one sided matches.
Daishomaru, who began his career in May 2014, advanced to Makuuchi for the first time in March 2016. In 16 Basho he was Kachi-koshi (winning record) 5 times but won enough matches to stay in the Division. He dropped to Juryo in March 2019, and with the exception of one "cup of coffee" in Makuuchi in November of that year, has been in Juryo ever since. He too is possibly two or more likely three Basho away from a return to the Top Division. But he is in a more precarious position because if he has a really bad Basho, he might lose salaried status. So this seemingly innocuous match has a lot of meaning for these Rikishi.
+++
DAY 8: JULY 11, 2021
Chris Sumo Youtube
Japanese Sumo Association Youtube
1. Daieisho (M1w) v Meisei (K1w) The Komusubi wins the battle of pusher-thrusters, and sends January 2021 Basho Yusho (Champion) Daieisho to his 7th loss in 8 matches.
2. Abi (J14e--7-0) v Kaisho (J13e)-6-1)-this is a Juryo (2nd Division) match. Abi begins on the right.
Abi's 20 match winning streak since coming back from suspension came to a quick end as Kaisho easily forced him out. Abi's left calf was heavily taped today. It was not taped yesterday. He seemed not to be able to put any weight on it as he tried to resist the force out.
Tachiai.org is following the Jonokuchi Division Basho of this Tournament. Jonokuchi is Division 6, the lowest division, non salaried.
Today there is video for the following matches:
Daitensho (Jk23--0-2) v Byakuen (Jk25e--1-2)
Arikawa (J17e--2-1) v Kiryuko (J24e--3-0)
Arikawa is 32 years old. He has been a Sumo wrestler since May 2009. He has progressed as high as Sandanme 76e (Division 4--non salary). He has fought 476 matches in 76 Basho, with an overall record of 243-244 (16 absences).
Tanaguchi (Jk6w--3-0) v Mogamizakura (Jk4w--3-0)
Abe (Jk9e--3-0) v Shunrai (Jk23w--3-0)
Note not only the youth of (most of) the Rikishi, but also the Gyogi (Referee) and Yobidashi (Ring Announcer who sings the announcements). These also are attached to stables and are ranked.
+++
DAY 9: JULY 12, 2021
Chris Sumo Youtube
Japanese Sumo Association Youtube
1. Takarafuji (M8e) v Ura (M13w) The man of many kimarite (finishing moves wins this one with a tottari (arm barring force out). Ura is in the salmon belt.
2. Takagenji (J6e--4-4) v Akua (J2w--5-3)-this is a Juryo (2nd Division) match. Akua is in the black belt.
Takagenji began his career in May 2013. He is 24. He reached Makuuchi (Top Division on the back of a May 2019 Yusho (Championship) (13-2) at J2e. Two Basho and an 8-22 record sent him back to Juryo. After 4 more consecutive Make-koshi (losing records--24-36) he dropped to Makushita, out of the salaried ranks. He quickly (one Basho) got back to Juryo where he has earned 2 Kachi-koshi (winning records) in his next 4 Basho. A strong Kachi-koshi in this Basho could move him up to Makuuchi contention in the next one.
30 year old Akua began his career in January 2011. He did not reach Juryo until January 2018. A poor Basho sent him back to Makushita, where he appeared in 8 of his next 9 Basho. He made Juryo again in November 2019 and has been in the salaried ranks ever since. He first made Makuuchi in November 2020 and has been yo-yo ing back and forth between Makuuchi and Juryo ever since. A strong Kachi-koshi should yo yo him back to Top Division in September.
+++
DAY 10: JULY 13, 2021
Chris Sumo Youtube
Chris Sumo missed Day 10 and 11. Instead he produced two videos on Hakuho
Japanese Sumo Association Youtube
1. Ura (M13w) v Chiyonokuni (M16e) Both Rikishi entered this match at 5-4. At their ranking, a Kachi-koshi (winning record) is crucial to staying in the Top Division. For Chiyonokuni it is an especially important Basho, as he was dropped from M3w to M16e after having drop out of the May Basho after only three bouts due to injury.
For Ura it is also an especially important Basho, as he has fought his way back to Makuuchi after reaching a high water mark of M4e exactly four years ago. After that injuries forced him to miss 64 consecutive matches (including 5 complete Basho). He found himself dropped all the way to Sandamne 91e (4th Division--no salary). After winning a Yusho, he then missed 30 more matches (including 4 complete Basho). By the time he came back (November 2019) he was buried at Jonidan 106w (5th Division--no salary). Since then he has gone 73-20-1 with three Yusho (Championships), including the May 2021 Juryo (2nd Division--salaried). He was then promoted to Top Division. So neither of them has the least bit of interest in going backward. Ura is in the salmon belt.
2. Wakamotoharu (J3e--5-4) v Kaisho (J13e--7-2)--this is a Juryo (2nd Division) match. Kaisho begins on the right.
27 year old Wakamotoharu began his career in January 2012. He reached Juryo in March 2019. After yo yo-ing between Juryo and Makushita (3rd Division--no salary) he reached Juryo again in March 2020. Since then he has earned 4 Kachi-koshi, suffered 1 Make-koshi (losing record), and missed one Basho when his Arashio Stable was shut down due to a Covid outbreak. He entered this Basho on the back of a 9-6 May Basho, which got him promoted from J9e to J3e. A strong Kachi-kochi will put him in a position for a promotion to Top Division, which would be a culmination of over 9 years of hard work.
Tachiai.org is following the Jonokuchi Division Basho of this Tournament. Jonokuchi is Division 6, the lowest division, non salaried.
Shonanzakura (Jk24w--0-3) v Higohikari (Jk5w--0-4) (Shonanzakura came agonizingly close to breaking his three figure losing streak).
Shonanzakura (Jk24w--0-4) v Kato (Jk13e--0-4) (and again, almost.)
Kiryuko (Jk24e--4-0) v Mogamizakura (Jk4w--4-0)
Shunrai (Jk23w--4-0) v Iwata (Jd--Jonidan (5th Division Substitute)--4-0)
Matsugi (Jk1e--3-1) v Asasorai (Jk7e--3-1)
+++
DAY 11: JULY 14, 2021
Japanese Sumo Association Youtube
Kiribayama (M6w) entered the match at 7-3, one win away from Kachi-koshi (winning record). The 25 year old Rikishi began his career in May 2015. He reached Juryo (2nd Division--salaried) in March 2019 and Makuuchi (Top Division) in January 2020. In the 8 Basho since then he has been Kachi-koshi 4 times, with an overall record of 59-59-2. He has reached as high as M1e and one more win in this Basho will guarantee him his 4th consecutive Basho in the top half of Maegashira (rank and file). He has already punched his ticket to his 10th consecutive Makuuchi Basho. He has earned one special prize and not missed a match in his career, 344 matches so far.
2. Wakamotoharu (J3e--5-5) v Abi (J14e--7-3)--this is a Juryo (2nd Division) match. Kaisho begins on the right.
After losing on Day 8, which broke his 20 match winning streak, Abi also lost on Days 9 and 10, throwing the Juryo Basho wide open. His win today moved him into a tie for 2nd place, one match behind the leaders. Abi begins on the right. Note that the calf brace that marked his first loss is still on.
+++
DAY 12: JULY 15, 2021
Chris Sumo Youtube
Japanese Sumo Association Youtube
After winning his first 7 matches with different kimarite (winning moves), Hakuho has now won 4 of his last 5 via Yorikiri (Frontal Force Out), the most commonly used kimarite. The other was by Yoritaoshi (Frontal Crush Out), the first time he has employed that move.
2. Takagengi (J6e)(5-6) v Shohozan (J1w) (3-8)--this is a Juryo (2nd Division) match. Takagengi begins on the left.
Both Rikishi have been disappointing in this Basho.
Shohozan was expected to contend for the Yusho (Championship), or at least have a strong Kachi-koshi (winning record), which would propel him back into Makuuchi (Top Division, where he last fought in September of 2020). He is a veteran of 16 years in Sumo and has reached as high as Komusubi. But that was in 2013 and only for one Basho. He yo-yo-ed between Komusubi and Maegashira for the most of 2013 before falling to rank and file until he reached Komusubi once more in 2018. Again he immediately fell back to Maegashira until November of 2020, when he dropped to Juryo (Second Division). He has gone up and down the Juryo Banzuke (rankings) since then, reaching J1w for this Basho. But he began with 6 consecutive losses. With this loss, is headed for a deep Make-koshi that may make it another multiple Tournament struggle to get back to Makuuchi. At age 37, his chance may be slipping away.
Tachiai.org is following the Jonokuchi Division Basho of this Tournament. Jonokuchi is Division 6, the lowest division, non salaried.
Shunrai (Jk23w) (5-0) v Takashoki (Jk7w) (4-1) (Shunrai is on the left)
Mogamizakura (Jk4w) (5-0) v Tanimoto (Jd [Jonidan--Division 5] 93w) (Mogamizakura is on the left)
Myagi (J21e) (4-1) v Kiryuko (J24e) (4-1) (Myagi is on the left)
Chiyofuku (J16e) (2-3) v Byakunen (Jk25e) (2-3)
+++
DAY 13: JULY 16, 2021
Chris Sumo Youtube
This video discusses the Makushita (Division 3--non salary) Yusho (Championship) decider between Hakuho protege Hokuseiho (Ms2w), 19 years old, 6'7" (200 centimeters), 362 pounds (164 kilograms) and ex University Star Ishizaki (Ms56w--fighting in only his 2nd Basho), 22 years old, 5'9" (176 centimeters), 265 pounds.
As with some college stars, Ishizaki began in Sandanme (Division 4--non salaried), winning his first Yusho with a perfect 7-0 record in May. He came into this match with a 6-0 record, handing 5 Rikishi their first loss. Hokuseiho, on the other hand, began his career at Jonokuchi (Division 6--non salaried), winning his first 3 Basho in Division 6, 5 (Jonidan) and 4, each at 7-0. After missing the January 2021 Basho due to Stable Pandemic restrictions, his 21 match winning streak was broken but he has lost only 2 matches since, also carrying a 6-0 record (39-3-7 overall) into this match. By winning, he not only handed Ishizaki his first career loss, but won his 4th Yusho in 4 different Divisions, only the 5th Rikishi to have ever achieved that feat, earning a promotion to Juryo (Division 2--salaried). All of his wins in this Yusho were either Frontal Force Outs (Yorikiri--5) or Frontal Crush Outs (Yoritaoshi). This match was an epic. And it appears that both these Rikishi will be forces to reckon with in the future.
This time last year I said I'd be in Division 2 in six Tournaments. I hold myself to my promises and I'm happy to have also kept my latest one, to join Division 2 as Division 3 Champion. My ultimate goal is Yokozuna but before that, I must reach Division 1. So that's where my sights are now.
Hokuseiho, reflecting on his win.
You've seen enough of him on here to gauge his insane potential. The next Hakuho, it seems, is about to arrive, with the actual Hakuho as his Coach. The possibilities boggle the mind.
Chris Sumo on Hakuseiho
Japanese Sumo Association Youtube
Hakuho punched his ticket to at very least a Championship Final with an easy victory by Arm Bar Throw (Tottari) over Takayasu (S1e). The loss drops Takayasu to 7-4-2. He needs one win in his last two matches against Terunofuji (O1e) and Shodai (O1w) in order to keep his Sekiwake rank. This was Hakuho's 9th different Kimarite (finishing move) in 13 matches.
2. Ichinojo (M2w) v Hoshoryu (M5w). Both matches. There was a Judges mono-ii (conference) to determine the winner. None could be determined and so an immediate rematch was adjudicated. Hoshoryu is in the red belt.
3. Enho (J5e) v Kotokuzan (J13w). This is a Juryo (2nd Division) match. Enho is in the red belt.
For another Enho match, see Day 1 Blog post. Day 1 was a long time ago for Enho. Last year's fan favorite in Makuuchi (Top Division), was long ago found out by his opponents there and in the 4 Basho from March through November 2020 his record was 20-40, all Make-koshi (losing records). After missing the January 2021 Basho due to Stable Pandemic issues, he was dropped back to Juryo (2nd Division). Unfortunately at his weight (around 100 kilograms--about 220 pounds), he has little room for error. After a successful 9-6 Basho in March 2021, he was elevated to J1e, where another winning Tournament would have promoted him back to the Top Division. Unfortunately, he went 5-10, dropping to J5e for this Basho. Going into today's match he was 3-9, having finally broken a 7 match losing streak yesterday, one of which he had to forfeit due to a possible concussion (the match was too close to call and a rematch was ordered, but the Judges determined that he was not fit to wrestle). He also suffered an ankle injury. His is a story that is all too familiar in Sumo, a small Rikishi being found out, and unable (so far) to adjust. He had a very good win in this match, leaving him at 4-9, but still headed for a deep Make-koshi (losing record) and big demotion (lower Juryo). That means that it will take, most likely, 3 consecutive excellent Basho to get back to Top Rank, while a poor one could land him without a salary.
As for Kotokuzan, this Basho marks his first in Juryo after being in Sumo since November of 2009. He has had a very difficult time, including a 7 match losing streak (and 10 of 11), dooming him to drop back to Makushita (3rd Division--no salary). His too is a story often told in this sport. His Sisyphus like labors for the last 11 years finally came to fruition, but the heady atmosphere of salaried status has been taken away after one Basho. It will be interesting to see how he responds to this setback.
Tachiai.org is following the Jonokuchi Division Basho of this Tournament. Jonokuchi is Division 6, the lowest division, non salaried.
Mogamizakura (Jk4w) (5-1) v Shunrai (Jk23w) (6-0). Shunrai is on the left.
Today was not the last day of competition in Jonokuchi but it was the day the Yusho (Championship) was decided. The match video today was the decider
16 year old Shunrai began his career in the best way possible, with a 7-0 Yusho. If he can keep up that standard, he should rise up the Banzuke (rankings) quickly. On the other side, Shonanazakura (Jk24w), finished his 14th consecutive winless Basho by running his match losing streak to 104. He is now 3-238-1 in 35 Basho.
+++
DAY 14: JULY 17, 2021
Chris Sumo Youtube
Japanese Sumo Association Youtube
1. Ura (M13w) v Meisei (K1w) Ura is on the left.
Ura becomes the lowest ranked Maegashira in this Basho to defeat a san'yaku (Top Rank) opponent.
2. Terunofuji (O1e) v Takayasu (S1e) Terunofuji is on the left.
3. Hakuho (Y1e) v Shodai (O2e) Hakuho is on the left.
4. Oho (J12w) (8-5) v Yutakayama (J1e) (10-3) This is a Juryo (2nd Division) match. Oho is on the right.
This was a match with Yusho (Championship) implications. Yutakayama is trying to earn a promotion to Top Division, and nothing guarantees that more than a Juryo Yusho. He has reached as high as M1w (July 2020), but injuries and an overall record of 19-43-8 in his next 4 Basho sent him plummeting back to Juryo. Today's loss will not help his cause, but even if he loses tomorrow, he would still finish with a 10-5 record. From the J1 rank, that should be good enough to get his promotion, but now, even if he wins tomorrow, he is unlikely to go up as a Juryo Yusho.
+++
DAY 15: JULY 18, 2021--SENSURAKU
Chris Sumo Youtube
Here Chris Sumo sums up the final match, the context, and just what an incredible achievement Hakuho, a now 45 time (13 more than anyone else) Yusho (Championship) winner (for the 16th time time with a perfect score), with 899 Yokozuna match wins, at age 36, has sculpted on the clay.
Japanese Sumo Association Youtube
1. Hakuho (Y1e) (14-0) v Terunofuji (O1e) (14-0) Hakuho is on the left
2. Ura (M13w) v Chiyoshoma (M7w) Ura is on the left
3. Mitoryu (J6w) (11-3) v Wakamotoharu (J3e) (7-7) This is a Juryo (2nd Division) match. Mitoryu on the right.
This win,combined with Abi's (J14e) loss, clinched the Juryo Yusho for Mitoryu. It was his first Yusho. Whether that will be enough to promote him to Makuuchi (Top Division) remains to be seen.
4. Kaisho(J13e) (11-3) v Yutakayama (J1e) (10-4) Kaisho is on the right
Kaisho finished an excellent Tournament with 11 wins, just one behind Yusho winner Mitoryu. He should get a hefty promotion. Yutakayama, after a brilliant 9-1 start that put him on an inside track to the Yusho, faded, losing 4 of his last 5 matches. Still, his 10-5 score should be more than enough to promote him to Top Division.
===============================
July 2021 Basho
Introduction and Previews (including 2 new Fred Pinkerton height x weight scatter plots)--links to all player information (ranking, prefecture or country of origin, date of birth, stable, height, weight)
Summary; Cumulative Statistics; Selected Comparisons with May 2021 Basho and Index to all Videos and Photos (Scroll to the bottom of the page)
Note: Due to technical issues, the links from Day 12-15 do not contain a link to the Summary Page. A link to the Summary page is available from the Introduction and Day 1-11. If and when I find a solution to the technical issues, I will link Pages 12-15 to the summary page. Again, the Summary page can only be reached from the Introduction and Days 1-11 at this time. Apologies for any inconvenience caused.
===============================
