July, May and March 2020 Basho
Link to March 2021 Basho Blog Post
Link to May 2021 Basho Blog Post
Link to July 2021 Basho Post
JULY 2020 BASHO
The July 2020 Basho (Tournament) (one of 6 annual Basho, held in the odd numbered months) (originally scheduled for early July in Nagoya). Instead, it was transferred to Tokyo's Ryogku Kokukikan (1)(2) (source: Wikipedia) due to Covid-19 restrictions on travel (most of the rikishi "stables" [Heya](Wikipedia) are in Tokyo). The 15 day tournament (21 matches a day) was scheduled for July 19-August 2.
Complete Banzuke (rankings for this Tournament, along with other relevant links) can be found in this blog post and at Sumo Reference (note for dimensions: Kilograms*2.2=pounds. Centimeters*.394=inches).
Note: Y(okozuna); O(zeki); S(ekiwaki); and K(omusubi) are Top Ranked Rikishi (in the order listed). Also known as san'yaku (Wikipedia)
Note: All sources, unless otherwise specifically stated, are English language sources. All NHK videos will be available on demand throughout the tournament and for about 2 weeks after. They are then removed except for a short highlight video of the whole Tournament, which remains available on demand until the next tournament.
Glossary of finishing moves (Kimarite): (Wikimedia)
NHK Video Preview (available on demand for a limited time) (no longer available as of August 4, 2020)
Feature article: Upcoming July Basho could be fascinating, unpredictable affair, by John Dunning (Japan Times, July 16, 2020)
Feature article: Hanakaze, at 50, longest-serving sumo wrestler since Showa Era, by Kensuki Suzuki (Asahi Shimbun, July 18, 2020)
Complete Banzuke (Rankings) for all Tournaments--July 2020 Basho (Japanese Sumo Association (ADDED JULY 22, 2020)
Contains links to in depth information (on one page) for each Rikishi, along with links to all other Rikishi from Country or Prefecture of Origin, and Stable (Beya)
Stable (Beya) Guide (Japanese Sumo Association (in English) (ADDED JULY 22, 2020)
Note that Makuuchi (Top Tier) Rikishi do not fight stablemates in Bashos.
To follow the Basho chronologically, read from the bottom up. Below this tournament is selected information about the March 2020 (Haru) Tournament, held in Osaka.
For Video demonstrations of all major (and some not so major) Kamarite (finishing moves), see the excellent NHK video Primer: The Techniques of Sumo. Techniques are arranged by major category. Note that all finishing moves below are linked to a video demonstrating the move. (ADDED JULY 22)
Something that may puzzle new fans to the sport are the envelopes that the Referee (Gyoji) presents to winning Rikishi after a match. As you might imagine, those envelopes contain money. The money is put up as a prize for that particular match by sponsors. Each envelope contains the equivalent of about 600 USD. Part of that money goes to the Sumo Association, part to the Rikishi's pension fund, and part to the Rikishi. Note that the higher ranked the Rikishi is, the more envelopes he usually receives. The prize for winning the Tournament is about 10 million yen (about 93,000 USD at the moment). Base salary for Top Tier Rikishi is about 8,800 USD per month.
More on Chamionship Prizes (NHK Sumpedia Video)
More on Prize Money (NHK Sumopedia Video)
For over 50 more short videos (1-2 minutes) see the NHK Sumopedia Library, the best and most entertaining way for the neophyte to learn various aspects about the sport, from ritual to strategy and tactics. (ADDED JULY 22)
==========================
San'yaku (Top Rank)
Y=Yokozuna (highest rank);
O=Ozeki (2nd rank);
S=Sekiwake (3rd Rank);
K=Komusubi (4th rank)--it's a little more complex than this, but for now let's leave it be. That is how it is generally understood. These are the "top rank" rikishi.
Rank and Filers
M=Maegashira (Ranked from 18 up to 1)--whenever any of these beats a Y it is called a Kinboshi (Gold Star Win).
e=East technically 1/2 rank above w=West
Note: Video Bouts of the Day are available here (NHK)--However, they change each day and the older ones are not archived. They may appear later on NHK Youtube. If and when that happens, I will link to them.
Day 15: Teronofuji (M17e) v Mitakeumi (S1w)
Highlights of the entire tournament (NHK) (Should be available until the next tournament. (about 5 minutes)
==========================
The July 2020 Basho (Tournament) (one of 6 annual Basho, held in the odd numbered months) (originally scheduled for early July in Nagoya). Instead, it was transferred to Tokyo's Ryogku Kokukikan (1)(2) (source: Wikipedia) due to Covid-19 restrictions on travel (most of the rikishi "stables" [Heya](Wikipedia) are in Tokyo). The 15 day tournament (21 matches a day) was scheduled for July 19-August 2.
Complete Banzuke (rankings for this Tournament, along with other relevant links) can be found in this blog post and at Sumo Reference (note for dimensions: Kilograms*2.2=pounds. Centimeters*.394=inches).
Note: Y(okozuna); O(zeki); S(ekiwaki); and K(omusubi) are Top Ranked Rikishi (in the order listed). Also known as san'yaku (Wikipedia)
Note: All sources, unless otherwise specifically stated, are English language sources. All NHK videos will be available on demand throughout the tournament and for about 2 weeks after. They are then removed except for a short highlight video of the whole Tournament, which remains available on demand until the next tournament.
Glossary of finishing moves (Kimarite): (Wikimedia)
NHK Video Preview (available on demand for a limited time) (no longer available as of August 4, 2020)
Feature article: Upcoming July Basho could be fascinating, unpredictable affair, by John Dunning (Japan Times, July 16, 2020)
Feature article: Hanakaze, at 50, longest-serving sumo wrestler since Showa Era, by Kensuki Suzuki (Asahi Shimbun, July 18, 2020)
Feature article: Asanoyama (recently promoted to O[zeki] rank) aims to maintain momentum at relocated July meet (Kyodo News, July 18, 2020)
Complete Banzuke (Rankings) for all Tournaments--July 2020 Basho (Japanese Sumo Association (ADDED JULY 22, 2020)
Contains links to in depth information (on one page) for each Rikishi, along with links to all other Rikishi from Country or Prefecture of Origin, and Stable (Beya)
Stable (Beya) Guide (Japanese Sumo Association (in English) (ADDED JULY 22, 2020)
Note that Makuuchi (Top Tier) Rikishi do not fight stablemates in Bashos.
To follow the Basho chronologically, read from the bottom up. Below this tournament is selected information about the March 2020 (Haru) Tournament, held in Osaka.
For Video demonstrations of all major (and some not so major) Kamarite (finishing moves), see the excellent NHK video Primer: The Techniques of Sumo. Techniques are arranged by major category. Note that all finishing moves below are linked to a video demonstrating the move. (ADDED JULY 22)
Something that may puzzle new fans to the sport are the envelopes that the Referee (Gyoji) presents to winning Rikishi after a match. As you might imagine, those envelopes contain money. The money is put up as a prize for that particular match by sponsors. Each envelope contains the equivalent of about 600 USD. Part of that money goes to the Sumo Association, part to the Rikishi's pension fund, and part to the Rikishi. Note that the higher ranked the Rikishi is, the more envelopes he usually receives. The prize for winning the Tournament is about 10 million yen (about 93,000 USD at the moment). Base salary for Top Tier Rikishi is about 8,800 USD per month.
More on Chamionship Prizes (NHK Sumpedia Video)
More on Prize Money (NHK Sumopedia Video)
For over 50 more short videos (1-2 minutes) see the NHK Sumopedia Library, the best and most entertaining way for the neophyte to learn various aspects about the sport, from ritual to strategy and tactics. (ADDED JULY 22)
==========================
San'yaku (Top Rank)
Y=Yokozuna (highest rank);
O=Ozeki (2nd rank);
S=Sekiwake (3rd Rank);
K=Komusubi (4th rank)--it's a little more complex than this, but for now let's leave it be. That is how it is generally understood. These are the "top rank" rikishi.
Rank and Filers
M=Maegashira (Ranked from 18 up to 1)--whenever any of these beats a Y it is called a Kinboshi (Gold Star Win).
e=East technically 1/2 rank above w=West
Note: Video Bouts of the Day are available here (NHK)--However, they change each day and the older ones are not archived. They may appear later on NHK Youtube. If and when that happens, I will link to them.
Day 15: Teronofuji (M17e) v Mitakeumi (S1w)
Highlights of the entire tournament (NHK) (Should be available until the next tournament. (about 5 minutes)
==========================
Updates:
August 7: Chris Sumo Youtube
July 2020 Injury File (5:14)
July 2020 success stories (7:31)
Veteran special (6:42)
Meisei wins division two (6:08)
+++
August 5: Chris Sumo Youtube: Abi: How did we get here? (6:31)
August 4: NHK releases full match (second half of the schedule) "live" video of Day 15. Video is about 89 minutes. Should be available on demand until August 17. This video is fascinating in that it allows new viewers to see the lead up to every match, which is about 4 minutes of a combination of ancient rituals and psychological warfare, as the Rikishi try to take the measure of each other. Watch the Gyoji (referee). He will tell you and the Rikishi when the pre-match is over and the match is to begin. I have read that experienced fans look at this part of the match for clues as to how the match will go. They see these pre-match episodes as every bit as important as the matches themselves.
Socially-Distanced sumo (1): Terunofuji's Miracle (August 3) (8:00 minutes)
Socially-Distanced sumo (2): Mitakeumi, Asanoyama, Shodai land special prizes (6:21) (August 3)
Socially-Distanced sumo (3): Superb Ura's comeback continues (August 4) (6:20)
Socially-Distanced sumo (4): What's up with Hakuho? (August 4) (6:54)
Socially-Distanced sumo (5): Teenage Sensation Yoshii hits division 3 (August 4) (5:59)
Socially-Distanced sumo (6): Abi submits retirement papers (August 5) (1:20)
Chris Sumo Youtube
==========================
Note that due to the absence of Abi (M5e) (due to breaking social distance) and Kotonowaka (M13w) due to a knee injury, the Makuuchi (Top Tier) Basho has been reduced to 20 matches rather than 21 since Day 8.
Kotonowaka returned to action on Day 14. However, due to the absence of the two Yokozuna (Grand Champion Hakuho [Y1e]--who dropped out due to injury after Day 13 & Kakuryu [Y1w]--who dropped out with injury after Day 1; Takakeisho [O1e]--dropped out with injury after Day 12 ; and Abi [M5e]--withdrawn by Stable Master after violating social distance rules after Day 6), 19 matches were contested on Days 13-15. (ADDED AUGUST 1)
August 4: NHK releases full match (second half of the schedule) "live" video of Day 15. Video is about 89 minutes. Should be available on demand until August 17. This video is fascinating in that it allows new viewers to see the lead up to every match, which is about 4 minutes of a combination of ancient rituals and psychological warfare, as the Rikishi try to take the measure of each other. Watch the Gyoji (referee). He will tell you and the Rikishi when the pre-match is over and the match is to begin. I have read that experienced fans look at this part of the match for clues as to how the match will go. They see these pre-match episodes as every bit as important as the matches themselves.
August 4: Chris Sumo Youtube releases discussing various aspects of the finished July Basho. All are in English, done by an excellent and experienced sumo journalist Almost all are less than 10 minutes, many are less than 5. I cannot think of a better way for the new (and not so new) fan who is not fluent in Japanese to follow the sport. Chris translates the essence of many of the Japanese news stories and also adds his own commentary. The memorial to Shobushi at the beginning of some releases is for the Rikishi who died of Covid-19 in April at the age of 28.
Socially-Distanced sumo (1): Terunofuji's Miracle (August 3) (8:00 minutes)
Socially-Distanced sumo (2): Mitakeumi, Asanoyama, Shodai land special prizes (6:21) (August 3)
Socially-Distanced sumo (3): Superb Ura's comeback continues (August 4) (6:20)
Socially-Distanced sumo (4): What's up with Hakuho? (August 4) (6:54)
Socially-Distanced sumo (5): Teenage Sensation Yoshii hits division 3 (August 4) (5:59)
Socially-Distanced sumo (6): Abi submits retirement papers (August 5) (1:20)
Chris Sumo Youtube
==========================
Note that due to the absence of Abi (M5e) (due to breaking social distance) and Kotonowaka (M13w) due to a knee injury, the Makuuchi (Top Tier) Basho has been reduced to 20 matches rather than 21 since Day 8.
Kotonowaka returned to action on Day 14. However, due to the absence of the two Yokozuna (Grand Champion Hakuho [Y1e]--who dropped out due to injury after Day 13 & Kakuryu [Y1w]--who dropped out with injury after Day 1; Takakeisho [O1e]--dropped out with injury after Day 12 ; and Abi [M5e]--withdrawn by Stable Master after violating social distance rules after Day 6), 19 matches were contested on Days 13-15. (ADDED AUGUST 1)
NOTE: LINKS TO MANY OF THE RESULTS WILL ONLY POINT TO THE RESULTS OF THE LATEST BASHO. THE ADDRESSES APPEAR TO BE THE SAME FROM BASHO TO BASHO. OLDER BASHO'S INFORMATION, UNFORTUNATELY, DOES NOT SEEM TO BE ARCHIVED. OF THE SOURCES I USE, SUMO REFERERENCE IS THE ONLY ONE THAT KEEPS AN ARCHIVE.
RESULTS: FINAL DAY
TERUNOFUJI (M17e) (13-2) DEFEATED MITAKEUMI (S1w) (11-4) to become Yusho (Champion) of the July 2020 Basho (Tournament). It marked the climax of Terunofuji's long march from Ozeki down and then up through 4 Tiers (passing over about 250 Rikishi) over 8 Basho, after recovery from 2 serious knee injuries and illness. It was a remarkable achievement. For the 2nd time in the last 3 Basho, the winner came from a position of M17, an unprecedented ocurrence. The only mitigating factor was the loss of both Yokozuna to injury in both Basho. However, Terunofuji competed against his closest San'yaku (Top Rank) rivals at the end of the Basho. Against one Ozeki and two Sekiwake, he won 2 of the 3 matches, including today's, for a very well earned victory. He also won 2 of the 3 Prizes given at the end of each Basho:
Shukun-sho (Outstanding Performance Prize), which he shared with 2 other Rikishi), and Gino-Sho (Technique Prize). It was a great ending to a great Tournament, in which most of the top Rikishi wrestled at their highest level (and the records of the high Maegashira attest to that). The combined record of all 8 San'yaku was 72-29. For comparison, the record in the March Basho was 62-43, and for the January Basho 46-53. As in all Basho there were excellent and disappointing performances. But overall, it was contested at a very high standard, in my (still somewhat naive) opinion.
In this match the Tachiai (Initial charge) was pretty even, but soon Terunofuji got a double mawashi (belt) grip (left hand first--his favorite tactic, followed by right hand), and from there used the same power that had won 7 other matches with the force out finishing move to drive his opponent off the premises and claim the Yusho.
"I was only thinking about winning, and about the playoff that would have followed. I was able to achieve double digit wins, which was my goal. I want to keep the momentum in the next tournament and work to get to a high rank."
Mitakeumi, NHK post-match interview. (See Terunofuji's comments below under "Articles.")
Finishing move: Frontal Force Out (Yorikiri)
Time: 5.7 seconds
PS. For those of you who don't already know, a Rikishi's ranking determines his opponents in the next Basho. San'yaku usually contest close to half their matches against other San'yaku. High ranking Maegshira also contest nearly half their matches against San'yaku. The road to San'yaku is not an easy one. Low Ms usually contest most of their matches against other low Ms. However, at the end of the Basho, if a low ranker is in contention, he will fight the most difficult schedule and/or the other contending Rikishi to win the Basho.
+++
Day 15:
Day 15 Results (Sumo Reference) (ADDED AUGUST 2)
Final Top Yusho Standings
Terunofuji (M17e) 13-2 (Yusho--Champion)
Asanoyama (O1w) 12-3 (Jun-Yusho--2nd Place Finisher)
Shodai (S1e) 11-4
Mitakeumi (S1w) 11-4
Yusho Race in Miniature (Wins, Day by Day)
Day 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 910 11 12 13 14 15
Terunofuji: 1 2 3 4 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 12 13 (13-2)
Asanoyama: 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 9 10 11 11 11 12 (12-3)
Shodai: 1 2 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 8 8 9 10 11 11 (11-4)
Mitakeumi: 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 7 7 8 8 9 10 11 11 (11-4)
HAKUHO*: 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 10 10 - - - (10-3)
*=Grand Champion Yokozuna
Longest Winning Streaks: Hakuho 10, Asanoyama 9, Terunofuji 8, Mitakeumi 7, Shodai 6
Terunofuji Finishing moves (wins):
Frontal Force Out (Yorikiri) 8
Arm Barring Force Out (Kimedashi) 2
Frontal Push Out (Oshidashi) 1
Over Arm Throw (Uwatenage) 1
Hand Pull Down (Hikiotashi) 1
Terunofuji Finishing moves (losses):
Frontal Force Out (Yorikiri) 2
============
Key Results (ADDED AUGUST 2)
Terunofuji (M17e) (13-2) defeated Mitakeumi (S1w) (11-4)
Finishing move: Frontal Force Out (Yorikiri)
Time: 5.7 seconds
Asanoyama (O1w) (12-3) defeated Shodai (S1e) (11-4)
Finishing move: Frontal Push Out (Oshidashi)
Time: 9.8 seconds.
Key Matchups of the Day
Terunofuji (Age 28, 6'4", 397 lbs)(M17e) 12-2
Mitakeumi (Age 27, 5'11",386 lbs) (S1w) 11-3
Shodai (Age 28, 6'0", 364 lbs) (S1e) 11-3
Asanoyama (Age 26, 6'2", 379 lbs) (O1w) 11-3
============
Scenarios:
1. If Terunofuji wins, he wins the Basho
2. If Terunofuji loses, he will enter a playoff with Mitakeumi and the winner of the Shodai v Asanoyama match. (3 way playoff).
============
Day 15 Kachi-koshi matches (ADDED AUGUST 2)
Endo (M1e) 8-7 defeated Tokoshoryu (M7w) 7-8
Finishing move: Frontal Force Out (Yorikiri)
Time: 4.8 seconds
Sadanoumi (M12e) 8-7 defeated Nishikigi (M16e) 6-9
Finishing move: Frontal Force Out (Yorikiri)
Time: 4.8 seconds
Matchups to determine Kachi-Koshi (Winnng Basho record)
Endo (M1e) 7-7 v Tokoshoryu (M7w) 7-7
Sadanoumi (M12e) 7-7 v Nishikigi (M16e) 6-8
==========
All Kachi-koshi and Make-koshi information: FINAL (ADDED AUGUST 2)
Kachi-koshi: (8 or more wins, a winning Tournament, Ms will be promoted, San'yaku--O, S, K have different rules for promotion)
Day 8: Hakuho (Y1e) 10-2+1(Forfeit)--Withdrew; Asanoyama (O1w) 12-3
Day 9: Shodai (S1e) 11-4; Terunofuji (M17e) 13-2
Day 10: Mitakeumi (S1w) 11-4
Day 11: Takakeisho (O1e) 8-3+1(forfeit)--Withdrew; Tamawashi (M9e) 10-5; Kotoshogiku (M14e) 8-7; Kotoeko (M16w) 10-5
Day 12: Daieisho (K1e) 10+1(Forfeit)-4; Myogiryu (M10w) 10-5; Wakatakakage (M14w) 10-5
Day 13: Okinoumi (K1w) 9-6; Hokutofuji (M5w) 9-6; Tochinosin (M11w) 10-5; Takayasu (M13e) 10-5; Kotoshoho (M15e) 8-7
Day 14: Terutsuyoshi (M7e) 8-7; Takanosho (M2e) 8-7
Day 15: Endo (M1e) 8-7; Sadanoumi (M12e) 8-7
"Former Ozeki rises from the second stage V/ Terunofuji Photo Special" (Nikkansports.com) (in Japanese, Use Google Translate)
Rather than a selection of photos from selected matches, today's photo essay is all about Terunofuji. It traces his rise, fall, and rise again. It shows his Ozeki promotion the first serious injury he suffered in 2015, and the long road back. It also shows him with the Emporer's Cup, the trophy given to Makuuchi (Top Tier) Champions, as well as the two Prizes he received.
Videos:
Day 15 live replay (2nd half of the schedule) (about 89 minutes) (ADDED AUGUST 4)
Day 15 video highlights (short highlights of all 21 matches, less than 30 minutes) (ADDED AUGUST 2)
Developments of Interest: (All finishing moves will be linked to demonstration videos. Source for all match times is Nikkansports.com (Day 15) (Japanese, use Google Translate, but you can see the times. Bouts are from lowest to highest rank).
1. Top Rank v Top Rank
Asanoyama (Age 26, 6'2", 379 lbs) (O1w) (12-3) defeated Shodai (Age 28, 6'0", 364 lbs) (S1e) (11-4). The final match of the Basho was rendered anti-climactic due to Terunofuji's Yusho gained in the penultimate match. Can a 12-3 mark in one's first Ozeki Basho be a terrible disappointment? Asanoyama was very disappointed (see his comments below under "Articles", but perhaps a bit too self-critical. He had, after all, a great Basho, winning his first 9 matches before splitting his last 6. The most disappointing match was his loss to Terutsuyoshi (M7e), when he was beaten by a leg pick in less than 2 seconds. This after watching Terunofuji lose his match.
So the Yokozuna coronation may have to wait a bit, as Asanoyama will need to win consecutive Basho for the ultimate promotion. As for Shodai, 11 wins could be the start of an Ozeki run. An early 6 match winning streak put him in a good position at 8-1, but then consecutive losses (including a devastating loss to Hokutofuji (M5w) seemingly knocked him out. However, a fortunate walk over against Hakuho, followed by and impressive win over Terunofuji put him back in contention. He came up just a bit short.
In the match Asanoyama was able to establish an advantageous position with arms under Shodai's. Then he overcame Shodai's resistance to push him out.
Finishing move: Frontal Push Out (Oshidashi)
Time: 9.8 seconds.
2. Kachi-Koshi on the final day
Endo (Age 29, 6'0", 331 lbs) (M1e) (8-7) defeated Tokoshoryu (Age 33, 5'11', 414 lbs (M7w) (7-8). In the second Kachi-koshi match of the final day, Endo defeated Tokoshoryu. Tokoshoryu, the surprise winner of the January 2020 Basho, was promoted from M17 to M2 after that win. He was unable to compete at that level (4-11) and dropped back to M7w. He had a much better Basho this time around, winning 6 of his first 10 and 7 of his 1st 13, needing just one more win for Kachi-Koshi. But it was not to be, as he lost his last two matches. He will drop in the rankings but probably not too far. M2 was by far his highest ranking in his 11 year career. From 2013-2016 he fought in 6 and then 12 consecutive Makuuchi Basho. But since then he has been on the yo yo between M and Juryo. His results in this Basho will keep him on the Makuuchi circuit for the 4th consecutive Basho, something he has not done since 2017.
Endo has been bouncing back and forth between Maegashira and Komusubi since 2018. In a usual Basho his 8-7 record would promote him back to Komusubi, but in this Basho all the San'yaku earned Kachi-Koshi and so he will likely stay at his present ranking. He came back from a 1-5 start in this Basho after starting with a murderous schedule (Y,O,Y,O,S,S). He is a talented Rikishi, as shown by his 7 career Kinboshi (Gold Star Win by Maegashira over Yokozuna). He has the capability of turning in a great performance. It just hasn't happened yet.
Endo, who had an 8-0 head to head record against Tokoshoryu, beat him again by winning the Takiai and driving his arms up under Takoshoryu and then switching one hand to the back of his mawashi (belt). From there he easily drove the big man out.
Finishing move: Frontal Force Out (Yorikiri)
Time: 4.8 seconds.
Sadanoumi (Age 33, 6'0", 309 lbs) (M12e) (8-7) defeated Nishikigi
(Age 29, 6'1", 375 lbs) (M16e) (6-9). One of the interesting developments on a last day schedule is that some Rikishi can achieve a Kachi-koshi (winning tournament) with a win, or fall to a Make-koshi (losing tournament ) with a loss. This was an issue in Sumo's match fixing scandal in the early 2010s, as a loss would lead to a demotion that might cost the loser a lot of money. So bribes were given to opponents who had already reached Kachi-koshi. (1--Wikipedia) (2--Guardian [London]). The result of this scandal was that this problem was corrected. At 4-6 and then 6-7, Sadanoumi was in trouble. The match was important to Nishikigi also, as a win might save his Makuuchi rank. But a loss would pretty much guarantee a demotion to Juryo (2nd Tier).
Sadanoumi won 4 of his last 5 and his last 2 in a row to earn his Kochi-koshi on the last day. He won it by dominating from the Tachiai and easily escorting Nishikigi off the premeses. It broke a 3 Basho Make-koshi streak. Nishikigi will participate in the Juryo Basho in September. This will be his second demotion to Juryo in the last year.
Finishing move: Frontal Force Out (Yorikiri)
Time: 4.8 seconds.
3. The Rookies
Wakatakakage (Age 25, 6'0", 273 lbs) (M14w) (10-5) defeated Ishiura (Age 29, 5'9" , 245 lbs (M8e) (4-11). Wakatakakage finished a brilliant Basho that begin with 3 consecutive losses by winning 10 of his last 12, and 7 of his last 8, including a 5 match winning streak. He has recently (like many Rikishi) bulked up, but most of the bulk is muscle gained through intensive weight training. He is quick and intelligent in the dohyo (ring) and seems to learn from his mistakes quickly (see Developments of Interest, Day 13 and 14). He was by far the best of the "rookies" in this Basho. Ishiura had a difficult tournament. The incredible quickness he employed to compile a 9-6 record in the March Basho was, for the most part, neutralized by Rikishi who adjusted to it. Now it is the turn of Ishiura to adjust back.
In a match of two of the smaller but well muscled Rikishi, Wakatakakage simply ejected Ishiura, who seemed to be, (according to the NHK commentary), carrying a foot injury from the day before.
Finishing move: Frontal Push Out (Oshidashi)
Time: 1.4 seconds.
Kotoshoho (Age 20, 6'3", 364 lbs) (M15e) (8-7) lost to Tochinosin (Age 32, 6'3", 381 lbs) (M11w) (10-5). Kotoshoho began his 1st Makuuchi Basho with a flair, winning 5 in a row. After that, as might be expected, things got more difficult. He needed 3 days to earn his Kachi-koshi, but earn it he did, making for a very successful beginning to what could be a long Top Rank career. But he lost some matches through the naivete of inexperience and others, like today's, to a Rikishi who was simply more experienced and better. Tochinosin has been in a long frustrating streak, some of which has been due to a chronic knee problem (for his story see Developments of Interest, Day 12 below) but in this Basho he seemed to shake that off, and wrestle "his sumo", the power game. And he is a powerful Rikishi. He never lost more than 2 in a row and finished with a flourish, winning his last 4 matches and 5 of his last 7. He smashed a 5 Basho Make-koshi streak during which he fell from Ozeki to Maegashira 11. Now that the pendulum has begun to swing the other way, it will be interesting to see how far and how fast he rises.
Finishing move: Slap Down (Hatakikomi)
Time: 2.9 seconds.
Kotonowaka (Age 22, 6'2" ,373 lbs) (M13w) (4-5+1(Forfeit) 5 (missed due to injury) lost to Ryuden (Age 29, 6'3", 337 lbs (M6w) (7-8). It probably wasn't the best choice for Kotonowaka to return to this Basho with a sore knee. How bad a choice will not be known until the next Banzuke (Rankings) are released about 2 weeks before the beginning of the next Basho. Ryuden has suffered Make-koshi in 5 of his last 6 Basho, dropping from K1 to M6. He finished on a high note. But for an early 4 match losing streak, he would have earned a Kachi-koshi.
It was clear from the beginning that Kotowaka was wrestling on one leg and Ryuden put him away with ease. It ended a difficult Basho for Ryuden, as he lost one of his best friends and stablemates Shobushi (Kiyotaka Suetake), who passed away at age 28 from complications of Covid-19 in May. (1--Guardian [London] (2--Chris Sumo Youtube).
Finishing move: Frontal Force Out (Yorikiri)
Time: 5.4 seconds.
4. Today's Juryo (2nd Tier) Substitute
Ichinojo (Age 27, 6'3", 443 lbs) (J5w) lost to Shohozan (Age 36, 5'10", 293 lbs) (M12w) (5-10). This win may or may not secure Shohozan's Makuuchi (Top Tier) status, as he ended the Basho with 3 consecutive wins (although it won't go unnoticed that one was by forfeit, one dealt his opponent a 13th loss without a win, and this one was over a 2nd Tier Rikishi). The match, however, was very important to Ichinojo. He came into this match at 9-5 in the wild Juryo (2nd Tier Basho (that ended up in a 6 Rikishi playoff.) Had he won, it would have been a 7 Rikishi playoff. The Juryo Basho has 14 contestants. But it wasn't to be. The much quicker Shohozan was able to push the Juryo out.
Finishing move: Frontal Push Out (Oshidashi)
Time: 6.0 seconds.
+++
Day 14:
Day 14 Results (Sumo Reference) (ADDED AUGUST 1)
Day 14:
Key Results: (ADDED AUGUST 1)
Shodai (S1e) (11-3) defeated Terunofuji (M17e) (12-2)
Finishing move: Frontal Force Out (Yorikiri)
Time: 6.4 seconds
Mitakeumi (S1w) defeated Kotoeko (M16w) (9-5)
Finishing move: Beltless Arm Throw (Sukuinage)
Time: 11.0 seconds.
Terutsyoshi (M7e) (8-6) defeated Asanoyama (O1w) (11-3)
Finishing Move: Leg Pick (Ashitori)
Time: 1.7 seconds
Standings:
Terunofuji 12-2
Asanoyama 11-3
Shodai 11-3
Mitakeumi 11-3
==========
All Kachi-koshi and Make-koshi information (ADDED AUGUST 1)
Kachi-koshi: (8 wins, a winning Tournament, Ms will be promoted, San'yaku--O, S, K have different rules for promotion)
Day 8: Hakuho (Y1e) 10-2+1(Forfeit)--Withdrew; Asanoyama (O1w) 11-3
Day 9: Shodai (S1e) 11-3; Terunofuji (M17e) 12-2
Day 10: Mitakeumi (S1w) 11-3
Day 11: Takakeisho (O1e) 8-3+1(forfeit)--Withdrew; Tamawashi (M9e) 9-5; Kotoshogiku (M14e) 8-6; Kotoeko (M16w) 9-5
Day 12: Daieisho (K1e) 9+1(Forfeit)-4; Myogiryu (M10w) 10-4; Wakatakage (M14w) 9-5
Day 13: Okinoumi (K1w) 9-5; Hokutofuji (M5w) 8-6; Tochinosin (M11w) 9-5; Takayasu (M13e) 9-5; Kotoshoho (M15e) 8-6
Day 14: Terutsuyoshi (M7e) 8-6; Takanosho (M2e) 8-6
Day 13:
Day 13 Results (Sumo Reference) (ADDED JULY 31)
Key Result:
Terunofuji (M17e) (12-1) defeated Asanoyama (O1w) (11-2)
Finishing move: Frontal Force Out (Yorikiri)
Time: 10.6 seconds
Mitakeumi (S1w) (9-3) defeated Kagayaki (M4e) (4-9)
Finishing move: Hand Pull Down (Hikiotashi)
Time: 2.2 seconds
Key Match of the Day:
Asanoyama (Age 26, 6'2", 379 lbs) (O1w) 11-1 v
Terunofuji (Age 28, 6'4", 397 lbs)(M17e) 11-1
With Hakuho withdrawing from the Basho due to a knee injury, the Basho could be decided by this match. While there are permutations where a 3 match loser could force a playoff or even win outright, that is unlikely. However, the trajectory of this Basho has already been "unlikely", to say the least.
==========
All Kachi-koshi and Make-koshi information (ADDED JULY 31)
Kachi-koshi: (8 wins, a winning Tournament, Ms will be promoted, San'yaku--O, S, K have different rules for promotion)
Day 8: Hakuho (Y1e) 10-2-1(Forfeit); Asanoyama (O1w) 11-2
Day 9: Shodai (S1e) 10-3; Terunofuji (M17e) 12-1
Day 10: Mitakeumi (S1w) 10-3
Day 11: Takakeisho (O1e) 8-3+1(forfeit)--Withdrew; Tamawashi (M9e) 9-4; Kotoshogiku (M14e) 8-5; Kotoeko (M16w) 9-4
Day 12: Daieisho (K1e) 8-1(forfeit)-4; Myogiryu (M10w) 9-4; Wakatakakage (M14w) 8-5
Day 13: Okinoumi (K1w) 8-5; Hokutofuji (M5w) 8-5; Tochinosin (M11w) 8-5; Takayasu (M13e) (8-5); Kotoshoho (M15e) 8-5
Articles:
Hakuho is closed The boss reveals the right knee injury in the place on the eve (Nikkansports.com (in Japanese--Use Google Translate) (ADDED JULY 30)
Hakuho withdraws from July tourney, both yokozuna out (Kyodo News) (ADDED JULY 31)
Japan Times Day 13 Tournament Report (ADDED JULY 31)
Terunofuji continues epic comeback with win over Asanoyama (Kyodo News--same story as JT, with different photos (ADDED JULY31)
The 4 articles below are all from Nikkansports.com All are in Japanese (Use Google Translate) (ALL ADDED JULY 31)
Key Results: (ADDED JULY 30)
Hakuho (Y1e) (10-2) lost to Mitakeumi (S1w) (9-3)
Finishing move: Thrust Down (Tsukiotoshi)
Time: 4.1 seconds
Asanoyama (O1w) (11-1) defeated Hokutofuji (M5w) (7-5)
Finishing move: Beltless Arm Throw (Sukuinage)
Time: 10.6 seconds
Terunofuji (M17e) (11-1) defeated Tamawashi (M9e) (8-4)
Finishing move: Frontal Force Out (Yorikiri)
Time: 17.8 seconds
Top Yusho Standings:
Asanoyama 11-1
Terunofuji 11-1
Hakuho 10-2
Key matchups:
Hakuho (Age 35, 6'4", 333 lbs) (Y1e) 10-1
v
Mitakeumi (Age 27, 5'11",386 lbs) (S1w) 8-3
Head to Head: Hakuho 11-3-[-1] forfeit
Asanoyama (Age 26, 6'2", 379 lbs) (O1w) 10-1
v
Hokutofuji (Age 28, 6'1", 346 lbs) (M5w) 7-4
Head to Head: Asanoyama 5-2
Terunofuji (Age 28, 6'4", 397 lbs)(M17e) 10-1
v
Tamawashi (Age 35, 6'2", 373 lbs) (M9e) 8-3
Head to Head; 5-5
==========
All Kachi-koshi and Make-koshi information (ADDED JULY 30)
Kachi-koshi: (8 wins, a winning Tournament, Ms will be promoted, San'yaku--O, S, K have different rules for promotion)
Day 8: Hakuho (Y1e) 10-2; Asanoyama (O1w) 11-1
Day 9: Shodai (S1e) 9-3; Terunofuji (M17e) 11-1
Day 10: Mitakeumi (S1w) 9-3
Day 11: Takakeisho (O1e) 8-3+1(Forfeit); Tamawashi (M9e) 8-4; Kotoshogiku (M14e) 8-4; Kotoeko (M16w) 9-3
Day 12 Day 12 Daieisho (K1e) 7+1(Forfeit)-4; Myogiryu (M10w) 8-4; Wakatakakage (M14w) 8-4
Day 11:
All Kachi-koshi and Make-koshi information (ADDED JULY 29)
Kachi-koshi: (8 wins, a winning Tournament, Ms will be promoted, San'yaku--O, S, K have different rules for promotion)
Day 8: Hakuho (Y1e) 10-1; Asanoyama (O1w) 10-1
Day 9: Shodai (S1e) 8-3; Terunofuji (M17e) 10-1
Day 10: Mitakeumi (S1w) 8-3
Day 11: Takakeisho (O1e) 8-3; Tamawashi (M9e) 8-3; Kotoshogiku (M14e) 8-3; Kotoeko (M16w) 8-3
Make-Koshi (8 losses--losing Tournament, Ms will be demoted
San'yaku: Yokozuna Make-koshi results in retirement--Yokozuna cannot be demoted; Ozeki have special rules for demotion; Sekiwake and Komusubi will be demoted)
Day 8: Yutakayama (M1w) 1-10; Onosho (M2w) 0-11
Day 9: None
Day 10: Ikioi (M10w) 2-9; Shimanoumi (M11e) 3-8; Shohozan (M12w) 2-9
Day 11: Abi (M5e) 3-3( of which 1 by forfeit)+5 (pulled out of the Tournament by his Stable master after violating JSA Covid 19 social distancing rules): Chiyomaru (M15w) 3-8
Results:
Day 11 Results (Sumo Reference) (ADDED JULY 29)
Basho Cumulative Win-Loss Martrix (Sumo Reference) (ADDED JULY 29)
Day 11: July 29: Japanese Sumo Association (click on rikishi name for relevant
data including percentage of each Kimarite (finishing) move used, rank and full results of last 5 tournaments, all on one page) (ADDED JULY 29)
Daily Cumulative Results (Japan Times) (UPDATED JULY 30)
Day 11 Time of Each Match: (nikkansports.com) (in Japanese, use Google Translate) Matches are in order from lowest rank to highest. Check against Sumo Reference above, which has matches in order from high to low. (ADDED JULY 29)
Top Rank (ALL ADDED JULY 29)
Hakuho (Y1e) 10-1
Asanoyama (O1w) 10-1
Takakeisho (O1e) 8-3; Shodai (S1e) 8-3; Mitakeumi (S1w) 8-3
Daieisho (K1e) 7-4
Okinoumi (K1w) 6-5
Others with 1 loss:
Terunofuji (M17e) 10-1
Others with 2 losses: none
Rookies:
Kotoshoho (M16e) 7-4
Wakatakakage (M14w) 7-4
Kotonowaka (M13w) 4-3-1(forfeit) (out with a knee injury)
Articles:
3 people [Rikishi) on the 11th day of shooting [Basho],[lead the Basho] with 1 loss after losing Hakuho in the end [last match of the day] (Day 11 Photo Essay) (Nikkansports.com) (in Japanese, Use Google Translate)
Today's feature contains photos from 13 of today's match, in order, from highest to lowest, as can be seen in the Sumo Reference Day 11 Results above. Note that the photos of the Hakuho match basically cover the entire match.
Videos:
Day 11 video highlights (short highlights of all 21 matches, less than 30 minutes) (ADDED JULY 30)
Developments of Interest:(All finishing moves will be linked to demonstration videos. Source for all match times is Nikkansports.com (Day 11) (Japanese, use Google Translate, but you can see the times. Bouts are from lowest to highest rank).
Note: Source for Rikishi Dimensions: Japan Sumo Association Database. Heights are rounded to the nearest inch, weights to the nearest pound.
1. Key matches of the day
Grand Champion Yokozuna Hakuho (Age 35, 6'4", 333 lbs) (Y1e--69th Yokozuna) (10-1) LOST TO Daieisho (Age 26, 6'0", 362 lbs) (K1e)(7-4). Hakuho's dominance in this competition came to and end, and the one game lead he fashioned yesterday disappeared today. Daieisho has become a "giant killer" in the last two days, badly damaging Shodai's Yusho (Championship) hopes yesterday, and now taking advantage of a small mistake by the Champion to throw ther Basho wide open. Hakuho appeared to miss on an attempted belt grip and slightly lost his balance. Daieisho pounced on the opportunity and escorted him out. The loss created a three way tie at the top and threw the outcome of the Basho into doubt.
Finishing move: Frontal Push Out (Oshidashi)
Time: 6.4 seconds.
"I get nervous every time I play against Yokozuna, but I was able to put out my strength today. I'm happy. I couldn't do anything if I was pushed and turned around. I thought I should hit it [him] firmly. I'm very confident. I think I am going to go well in the future."
Daieisho, when asked about his victory over Hakuho (Y1e). It was the Grand Champion's 1st loss in this Basho, and put 3 Rikishi at the top of the table (Hakuho, Asaonoyama (O3w), and Terunofuji (M17e). All are now 10-1. (Nikkansports.com)
"I feel good about doing my style of sumo. I'm feeling good about my sumo so I'll stay focused and keep going."
Daieisho--NHK post match interview.
Asanoyama (Age 26, 6'2", 379 lbs) (O1w) (10-1) DEFEATED Kagayaki (Age 26, 6'4" ,359 lbs) (M4e) (4-7). Asanoyama rebounded from his defeat yesterday to overpower Kagayaki, quickly driving him out. The win kept him in Yusho contention and pushed Kagayaki to within one loss of a Make-Koshi. Note that this was a case where the Yorikiri was enforced by the body, rather than using a grip on the belt (mawashi).
Finishing move: Frontal Force Out (Yorikiri)
Time: 4.5 seconds
Terunofuji (Age 28, 6'4", 397 lbs) (M17e) (10-1) DEFEATED Tochinosin (Age 32, 6'3", 381 lbs) (M11w) (6-5). Terunofuji ran his winning streak to 6 and moved into a 3 way tie for 1st place with Hakuho and Asanoyama. It was an exhausting standoff that Terunofuji finally won. What began as a feel good story for the ex-Ozeki coming back from Jonidan (5thTier) has now turned into something else. He now has control over his own fate in the Tournament. He will match up with both of his 10-1 opponents in the last 4 matches of the Basho. He has a simply understood but not so easy task. Win his final 4 matches. If he does that, he will have returned to Makuuchi from his long and difficult voyage and claimed Yusho.
Finishing move: Frontal Force Out (Yorikiri)
Time: 48.2 seconds
2. The other Ozeki (the 1st San'yaku v San'yaku match of the day)
Takakeisho (Age 23, 5'9", 373 lbs) (O1e) (8-3) defeated Mitakeumi (Age 27, 5'11",386 lbs) (S1w) (8-3). Mitakeumi had a chance to beat both Ozeki on consecutive days, as well as keep himself within hailing distance of the leaders. Alas, it was not to be, as Takakeisho earned his Kachi-koshi and avoided Ozeki demotion. In this match he blasted out quickly, almost too quickly. But Takakeisho was able to push Mitakeumi out just before the Sekiwake could finish his slap down.
Finishing move: Frontal Push Out (Oshidashi)
Time: 1.3 seconds.
3. The Rookies. (Note: My definition of Rookie is actually incorrect for this sport. A "Rookie" in Sumo is a Rikishi who is participating in his first Makuuchi (Top Tier) Basho. I have expanded that definition a bit in order to follow some new young talent.
Wakatakakage (Age 25, 6'0", 273 lbs) (M14w) (7-4) defeated
Chiyomaryu (Age 29, 5'10", 419 lbs (M15w) (3-8). Wakatakage ended any Kachi-koshi hopes for Chiyomaryu. At the same time he won his 4th in a row and 7th of his last 8 since opening with a 3 match losing streak. In this match he dominated from the tachiai (initial charge), easily forcing out a man who outweighed him by 146 pounds.
Finishing move: Frontal Force Out (Yorikiri)
Time: 4.2 seconds
Kotoshoho (Age 20, 6'3", 364 lbs) (M15e) (7-4) lost to Tamawashi (Age 35, 6'2", 373 lbs) (M9e) (8-3). For the 2nd day in a row Kotoshoho failed to earn Kachi-koshi. He has now has lost 4 of his last 6 after opening the Basho with 5 consecutive wins. Tamawashi has not lost 2 matches in a row and has had 1 three match winning streaks, and 2 two match winning streaks. Kotoshoho tried to use a push and thrust attack against a much more experienced pusher/thruster. The strategy did not work.
Finishing move: Frontal Force Out (Yorikiri)
Time: 6.0 seconds
Kotonowaka (Age 22, 6'2" ,373 lbs) (M13w) (4-2-1 (forfeit)-4 absent, remained sidelined with the knee injury he suffered on Day 7. Whether he will return in this Basho is not known at this time.
4. Today's Juryo (2nd Tier) Substitute
Chiyosoma (Age 29, 6'0", 283 lbs) (J1w) lost to Nishikigi (Age 29, 6'1" , 375 lbs) (M16e) (5-6). This was Chiyosoma's 2nd match as a Makuuchi substitute. He lost on Day 4 to Terunofuji (see Day 4 below). This time he won the Tachiai (initial charge), side stepping his opponent, gaining an advantage, and throwing him down. Or that is how the Gyoji (Referee) saw it. The judges weren't so sure and called a conference (moni-ii). It was clear that Chiyosoma was executing his finishing move with one foot out of the dohyo (ring) and the decision was reversed. Nishikigi needed the win as he struggles toward Kachi-koshi (winning Basho). If he doesn't get the 3 wins he needs, he will suffer a Make-koshi (losing Basho). Because of his low Maegashira rank in this Basho, he would almost certainly be demoted to Juryo (2nd Tier). Chiyosoma is an 11 year veteran whose high water mark was M2. He has not been on the Makuuchi (Top Tier) Circuit since the May 2019 Basho. Since then he has alternate 8-7 and 7-8 records in each of the Basho before this one.
Finishing move: Frontal Push Out (Oshidashi)
Time: 1.7 seconds
+++
Day 10:
Results: (ALL ADDED JULY 28)
Kachi-koshi: (8 wins, a winning Tournament, Ms will be promoted, San'yaku--O, S, K have different rules for promotion)
Day 8: Hakuno (Y1e) 10-0; Asanoyama (O1w) 9-1
Day 9: Shodai (S1e) 8-2; Terunofuji (M17e) 9-1
Day 10: Mitakeumi (S1w) 8-2
Make-koshi (8 losses--losing Tournament, Ms will be demoted, San'yaku have different rules of demotion)
Day 8: Yutakayama (M1w) 1-9; Onosho (M2w) 0-10
Day 9: None
Day 10: Ikioi (M10w) 2-8; Shimanoumi (M11e) 2-8; Shohozan (M12w) 2-8
Day 10 Results (Sumo Reference) (ADDED JULY 28)
Basho Cumulative Win-Loss Martrix (Sumo Reference) (ADDED JULY 28)
Day 10: July 28: Japanese Sumo Association (click on rikishi name for relevant
data including percentage of each Kimarite (finishing) move used, rank and full results of last 5 tournaments, all on one page) (ADDED July 28)
Daily Cumulative Results (Japan Times) (ADDED JULY 28)
Day 10 Time of Each Match: (nikkansports.com) (in Japanese, use Google Translate) Matches are in order from lowest rank to highest. Check against Sumo Reference above, which has matches in order from high to low. (ADDED JULY 28)
Top Rank (ALL ADDED JULY 28)
Hakuho (Y1e) 10-0
Asanoyama (O1w) 9-1
Shodai (S1e) 8-2; Mitakeumi (S1w) 8-2
Takakeisho (O1e) 7-3
Daieisho (K1e) 6-4
Okinoumi (K1w) 5-5
Others with 1 loss:
Terunofuji (M17e) 9-1
Others with 2 losses: none
Rookies:
Kotoshoho (M16e) 7-3
Wakatakakage (M14w) 6-4
Kotonowaka (M13w) 4-3-1(forfeit) (out with a knee injury)
Articles:
Asanoyama "Feeling to keep up with Peng Seki (?)" The first black star is also positive (Nikkansports.com) (in Japanese, Use Google Translate)
Protecting Terunofuji 1 loss, the battle for the championship "will follow later" (Nikkansports.com) (in Japanese, Use Google Translate)
+++
Day 9:
Results: (ALL ADDED JULY 27)
Kachi-Koshi (8 wins, a winning Tournament, Ms will be promoted, San'yaku--O, S,K have different rules for promotion)
Day 8: Hakuno (Y1e) 9-0; Asanoyama (O1w) 9-0
Day 9: Shodai (S1e) 8-1; Terunofuji (M17e) 8-1
Make-Koshi (8 losses--losing Tournament, Ms will be demoted, San'yaku have different rules of demotion)
Day 8: Yutakayama (M1w) 1-8; Onosho (M2w) 0-9
Day 9: None
Day 9 Results (Sumo Reference) (ADDED JULY 27)
Basho Cumulative Win-Loss Martrix (Sumo Reference) (ADDED JULY 27)
Day 9: July 27: Japanese Sumo Association (click on rikishi name for relevant
data including percentage of each Kimarite (finishing) move used, rank and full results of last 5 tournaments, all on one page) (ADDED JULY 27)
Daily Cumulative Results (Japan Times) (ADDED JULY 28)
Day 9 Time of Each Match: (nikkansports.com) (in Japanese, use Google Translate) Matches are in order from lowest rank to highest. Check against Sumo Reference above, which has matches in order from high to low. (ADDED JULY 27)
Top Rank:
Hakuko (Y1e) 9-0; Asanoyama (O1w) 9-0
Shodai (S1e) 8-1;
Mitakeumi (S1w) 7-2
Takakeisho (O1e) 6-3
Daieisho (K1e) 5-4
Okinoumi (K1w) 4-5
Others with 1 loss
Teranofuji (M17e) 8-1 (Ex Ozeki coming back from Jonidan [5th Tier])
Rookies:
Kotoshoho (M16e) 7-2
Wakatakakage (M14w) 5-4
Kotonowaka (M13w) 4-4-1 (Forfeited 8th match, missed 9th match due to knee injury suffered on Day 7
Articles:
Asanoyama "I thought I lost" The most win of the recovery, 9 consecutive wins
(Nikkansports.com) (in Japanese, Use Google Translate) (ADDED JULY 27)
"I don't care about winning stars. I just try do do my sumo the best I can"
Asanoyama (Loose English Translation of English Google Translate).
Should he win the Basho, he would become the 9th Shin-Ozeki Yusho (win the Championship (Ozeki in his first Basho as an Ozeki) "in history". Whether that means the entire history of the Sport or the Modern era (since 1909), I do not know. In any event, it would be an historic win. The 9 consecutive opening wins was the 5th time that has been done by a Shin-Ozeki since 1990(?--I think that is what the translation said). (ADDED JULY 27)
Photos:
Asanoyama, the first win to recover 9 consecutive wins / 9th day photo feature (Nikkansports.com) (in Japanese--Use Google Translate)
Today's feature begins with a photo of Hakuho performing the Yokozuna Ring Entering Ceremony (NHK Sumopedia video--2:00 minutes) The rest of the feature contains photos from each match, in order, from lowest to highest rank, as can be seen in the Sumo Reference Day 9 Results above. That in turn, is followed by three photos of the opening ceremony.
Videos:
Day 9 video highlights (short highlights of all 21 matches, less than 30 minutes)
Developments of Interest: (All finishing moves will be linked to demonstration videos. Source for all match times is Nikkansports.com (Day 9) (Japanese, use Google Translate, but you can see the times. Bouts are from lowest to highest rank).
Note: Source for Rikishi Dimensions: Japan Sumo Association Database. Heights are rounded to the nearest inch, weights to the nearest pound.
1. Yokozuna action: Grand Champion Hakuho (Age 35, 6'4", 333 lbs) (Y1e--69th Yokozuna) (9-0) had his most difficult match to date against the giant Aoiyama (Age 34, 6'4", 426 lbs) (M4w) (3-6). Unable to move or get inside his massive Bulgarian born opponent , Hakuho simply waited for the inevitable slight loss of balance, and slapped him to the ground. It wasn't one of Hakuho's most aesthetic performances, or one of his most aggressive (he has bulled through several opponents in this Basho). And he was on the back foot quite a bit. But the result was the same, and he now has begun this Basho exactly as he began the March Basho. 9 consecutive wins. Hakuho had a 22-1 career record against Aoiyama, the one loss a forfeit due to injury.
Aoiyama's margin for error fell today. His 3rd consecutive loss means he needs 5 wins in his last 6 matches to avoid Make-Koshi.
Finishing move: Slap Down (Hatakikomi)
Time: 6.4 seconds
Hakuho's winning times so far (seconds) (all but one against Ms): 4.5; 2.4; 3.7; 2.8; 4.3, 2.8, 2.1, 4.1, and 6.4 seconds
Average: 3.67 seconds.(ADDED JULY 29)
2. Top Rank v Top Rank
There was one all San'yaku match today.
Asanoyama (Age 26, 6'2", 379 lbs) (O1w) (9-0) defeated Okinoumi (Age 34, 6'2", 353 lbs) (K1w) (4-5). This match was the first this Basho to require a rematch. Asanoyama appeared to throw Okinoumi out just before he went out, according to the Gyogi (referee). But the Judges called a Conference (Mono-ii) to talk it over. They also had access to replay officials. In the end, they deemed that both men hit the ground at the same time. An immediate rematch was ordered. This time there was no question. Asanoyama got his favorite left hand belt (mawashi) grip in both matches but was unable to stop Okinoumi counter-attacks in either. In both, Asanoyama was able to turn the tables and throw his opponent out of the dohyo (ring) as he was being pushed back. Asanoyama, with 9 consecutive wins in his opening Ozeki Basho, is now tied for 3rd most wins for a first time Ozeki. The record of 11 consecutive wins is held by Tochiazuma, who set it in the January 2002 Basho (which he went on to win with a 13-2 record) More importantly, Asanoyama remains tied with Hakuho at the top of the table.
Finishing move: Over Arm Throw (Uwatenage)
Time: (Rematch time only): 8.8 seconds.
Asanoyama's winning times so far (all but 2 against Ms, those 2 against Ks) (seconds):
3.7; 4.2; 7.4; 8.6; 69.0; 4.2; 4.5, 5.8 and 8.8
Average time: 12,91; Average time without the 69 second match: 5.9
3. The other Ozeki:
Takakeisho (Age 23, 5'9", 373 lbs) (O1e) (6-3) defeated Enho (Age 25, 5'7" , 212 lbs) (M6e) (4-5). In a controversial decision that led to the third Judge's Conference (mono-ii) of the day, Enho was ruled to have flown out of the dohyo (unrecoverable position even though he may have landed after Takakeisho stepped out before Enho's body touched the ground).The judges confirmed the Gyoji's (Referee's) original call. Takakeisho had the best of things for most of the match. It was a crucial victory for Takakeisho. He now needs 2 more wins in his last 6 matches to retain his Ozeki rank. He had a Make-koshi (losing record--7-8, in the March 2020 Basho. As a result of that, he is "on the bubble" in this Basho. Consecutive Make-koshis by an Ozeki result in demotion to Sekiwake and the beginning of a long arduous process of getting back up, which requires a minimum of 33 total wins in 3 consecutive Basho (occasionally there are exceptions, as with Asanoyama, who only won 11, 10, and 11 in his previous 3 Basho, but was promoted anyway on the basis of excellent performance (one of those was a Jun-Yusho (2nd place finish)
Enho has looked up and down this Basho, being manhandled some of the time (he was literally pancaked in one match) while using his speed, quickness, and agility to win at other times. He needs 4 more wins for Kachi-koshi and a ride up the Maegashira latter. He is the smallest by size and height of all the Makuuchi Rikishi (Top Tier) in this Basho. As a result of his great hustle and athleticism, he has quickly become a fan favorite.
Finishing move: Frontal Thrust Down (Tsukitaoshi)
Time: 4.2 seconds.
4. The Ozeki on the Comeback Trail (from Ozeki to Jonidan (5th Tier) and back.
Terunofuji (Age 28, 6'4", 397 lbs) (M17e) (8-1) defeated Sadanoumi (Age 33, 6'0", 309 lbs) (M12e) (4-5). Terunofuji easily defeated the 18 year veteran Sadonoumi to stay within 1 match of the leader. Sadounoumi needs 4 wins in his last 7 matches to earn Kachi-Koshi and break his 3 Basho Make-koshi (losing record) streak. Terunofuji has now sandwiched two 4 match winning streaks around is only loss. He also earned his Kachi-koshi within one match of the minimum, his first Makuuche Kachi-koshi in 3 years. But he is thinking bigger thoughts now.
"I'm happy I kept working hard. The Tournament is not over. I'm just glad to get the Kachi-koshi. I think this was my best match of the Tournament. I'll just concentrate and do what I can, and do my best."
Terunofuji: Post Match Intrerview.
Finishing move: Frontal Force Out (Yorikiri)
Time: 3.2 seconds
5. The Rookies (Note: My definition of Rookie is actually incorrect for this sport. A "Rookie" in Sumo is a Rikishi who is participating in his first Makuuchi (Top Tier) Basho. I have expanded that definition a bit in order to follow some new young talent.
Kotoshoho (Age 20, 6'3", 364 lbs) (M15e) (7-2) defeated Ikioi (Age 33, 6'4", 377 lbs) (M9w) (2-7). Ikioi had the advantage until Kotoshoho turned sideways and thrust him down and out. The TV commentators said it wasn't a "good win". Kotoshoho is now one win away from Kachi-koshi in his first Makuuchi (Top Tier) Basho. Ikioi has had a difficult Basho. He is coming off 2 consecutive Makuuchi Kachi-koshi, but is nowone defeat away from moving down the Maegashira ladder. He has been as high as S1 during a 16 year career.
Wakatakakage (Age 25, 6'0", 273 lbs) (M14w) (5-4) defeated Shimanomi (Age 31, 5'10", 355 lbs) (M11e) (2-7). Wakatakakage survived three brushes with defeat against the straw bales before turning the tables. It was a gritty performance that put him in a good position, needing 3 more wins in 7 more matches to earn Kachi-koshi (winning Tournament) in his 2nd Makuuchi Basho. Shimanoumi's prospects are dimmer. He is on the precipice of a Make-koshi (losing Tournament) which would be his 4th in his last 5 Basho. The 9 year veteran has reached as high as M6.
Finishing move: Frontal Force Out (Yorikiri)
Time: 13.3 seconds.
Kotonowaka (Age 22, 6'2" ,373 lbs) (M13w) (4-2-1 (forfeit)-2 absent, remained sidelined with the knee injury he suffered on Day 7. Whether he will return in this Basho is not known at this time.
6. Just How Difficult being a High M can be:
Yutakayama (Age 26, 6'1", 386 lbs) (M1w) (1-8) defeated Onosho (Age 24, 5'10", 342 lbs) (M2w) (0-9)
It should be stressed that these two Rikishi are very good. No one reaches M1 and M2 without being a good Rikishi. Yutakayama came into this Basho with a 3 Basho Kachi-koshi streak that promoted him from M16-M1 (his highest rank) (10-5, 8-7, 11-4, 8-7). Onosho earned Kachi-koshi in 3 of his last 4 Basho (34-26 overall), promoting him from M11 to M2. He earned a Kinboshi (Gold Star Win over Grand Champion Hakuho (Y1e), Hakuho's first loss, in the March 2020 Basho. He reached Komusubi before missing 21 consecutive matches, plunging him to Juryo (2nd Tier). Both these Rikishi, young, strong, and brimming with confidence...were crushed. Onosho lost all 7 of his matches to San'yako. Yutakayama lost all 6 of his matches to San'yako. His first 4 matches were against Ozeki, Grand Champion, Ozeki, and Sekiwake.
Every high ranked M faces this. A brutal 1st half schedule. In this case a well rested Grand Champion looking to win his 2nd consecutive Basho, 2 tremendously motivated (for opposite reasons) Ozeki, and two very tough Sekiwake. In this case, both high Ms ran into a perfect storm. Needless to say, they haven't shown their best Sumo, but confidence, along with bodies, can be broken. I hope both of these Rikishi will recover from this, but it is yet one more illustration of just how difficult it can be to climb the ladder in this sport.
Finishing move: Frontal Push Out (Oshidashi)
Time: 12.4 seconds.
7. Today's Juryo (2nd Tier) Substitute
Daiamami (Age 27, 6'1", 415 lbs) (J4e) lost to Kotoyuki (Age 29, 5'9", 390 lbs) (M17w) (3-6). This was a critical win for Kotoyuki, who has been as high as S1 in his 13 year career, but has been bouncing between Maegashira and Juryo for the last 18 Basho (3 years). He missed the entire January 2020 Basho and was demoted from M3 to J1. An 8-7 record in the March Basho got him back to M17. Two more defeats will send him back to Juryo. With the win today, 5 more wins will move him up the M ladder.
Finishing move: Frontal Thrust Out (Tsukidashi)
Time: 4.6 seconds.
+++
Day 8:
Kachi-Koshi (8 wins, winning Tournament, Ms will be promoted, San'yaku--O, S,K have different rules for promotion)
Hakuho (Y1e)--8-0); Asanoyama (O1w) (8-0)
Make Koshi (8 losses--losing Tournament, Ms will be demoted, San'yaku have different rules of demotion)
Yutakayama (M1w) 0-8; Onosho (M2w) 0-8
Top Rank:
Hakuho (Y1e) 8-0; Asanoyama (O1w) 8-0
Shodai (S1e) 7-1; Mitakeumi S1w) 7-1
Takakeisho (O1e) 5-3; Daieisho (K1e) 5-3
Okinoumi K1w (4-4)
Others with 1 loss
Teranofuji (M17e) 7-1 (Ex Ozeki coming back from Jonidan [5th Tier]
Rookies:
Kotoshoho (M15e) 6-2
Kotonowaka (M13w) 4-4 (forfeited 8th match after suffering knee injury in his 7th)
Wakatakakage (M14w) 4-4
Results:
Day 8 Results (Sumo Reference) (ADDED JULY 26, 2020)
Basho Cumulative Win-Loss Martrix (Sumo Reference) (ADDED JULY 27)
Day 8: July 26: Japanese Sumo Association (click on rikishi name for relevant
data including percentage of each Kimarite (finishing) move used, rank and full results of last 5 tournaments, all on one page) (ADDED JULY27)
Daily Cumulative Results (Japan Times) (ADDED JULY 28)
Day 8 Time of Each Match: (nikkansports.com) (in Japanese, use Google Translate) Matches are in order from lowest rank to highest. Check against Sumo Reference above, which has matches in order from high to low. (ADDED JULY 27)
Articles:
Hakuho has won eight consecutive victories, and has a good sound for the 50th time (the 50th time he has achieved kachi-koshi (8 wins--a winning tournament--by starting the Basho with 8 consecutive wins) (Nikkansports.com (in Japanese, use Google Translate).
In the same article:
"I don't think he is Shin-Ozeki (1st Basho as an Ozeki) anymore. He has been Sumo Wrestling like an Ozeki for two years. Shin-Ozeki is not appropriate."
Hakuho, when asked to comment on the performance of Asanoyama (O1w) in this Basho. (Loose English Translation of Google English Translation).
(ADDED JULY 27)
Asanoyama defeats Giant Aoyama and wins / 8th day photo feature (Nikkansports.coom) (in Japanese--use Google Translate)
Today's feature begins with a photo of Hakuho performing the Yokozuna Ring Entering Ceremony (NHK Sumopedia video--2:00 minutes) This is followed by a scoreboard photo which shows that Abi (M5e) will not be participating (see below under Day 7). The rest of the feature contains photos from each match, in order, from lowest to highest rank, as can be seen in the Sumo Reference Day 8 Results above. (ADDED JULY 27)
Videos: (ALL VIDEOS ADDED ON JULY 27)
Day 8 video highlights (short highlights of all 21 matches, less than 30 minutes)
Day 8 extended video highlights of selected matches: (about 50 minutes) shows in detail the ritual/psychological warfare that takes place before the match begins. There is about 4 minutes of this before every Makuuchi match. The books I have read all say that "real" Sumo fans watch this almost as closely as the matches themselves. You can see by the Gyojo's (Referee) body language when this posturing can take place, and when it ends.
Sumo Watch Update: Recap of the major events of the 1st Half of the Basho (about 3 minutes) (ADDED JULY 29)
Developments of Interest: (All finishing moves will be linked to demonstration videos. Source for all match times is Nikkansports.com (Day 8) (Japanese, use Google Translate, but you can see the times. Bouts are from lowest to highest rank).
Note: Source for Rikishi Dimensions: Japan Sumo Association Database. Heights are rounded to the nearest inch, weights to the nearest pound.
The Basho reached its half way point today.
1. Yokozuna action: Grand Champion Hakuho (Age 35, 6'4", 333 lbs) (Y1e--69th Yokozuna) achieved Kachi-koshi (8 wins--a winning Basho (Tournament) in the minimum amount of matches. This was the 50th time he has done that. In another dominant match he defeated Kagayaki (M4e) (3-5) and remained at the top of the table.
Finishing move: Slap Down (Hatikikomi)
Time: 4.1 seconds (his 3nd longest match)
Hakuho's winning times so far (seconds) (all but one against Ms): 4.5; 2.4; 3.7; 2.8; 4.3, 2.8, 2.1, and 4.1
Average: 3.34 seconds.
2. Top Rank v Top Rank
There was one all San'yaku match today.
Shodai (Age 28, 6'0", 364 lbs) (S1e) (7-1) defeated Mitakeumi (Age 27, 5'11",386 lbs) (S1w) (7-1) in a crucial match between the Sekiwake. The win knocked Mitakeumi from the ranks of the undefeated, leaving only Hakuho and Asanoyama unblemished. It also kept Shodai within a match of the lead. The two Rikishi had split 20 matches against each other going into this one. This was Shodai's 5th consecutive win.
Finishing move: Thrust Down (Tsukiotashi)
Time: 5.7 seconds
3. The 2 Ozeki
Asanoyama (Age 26, 6'2", 379 lbs) (O1e) (8-0) defeated Aioyama (Age 34, 6'4", 428 lbs) (M4w) (3-5) to remain undefeated, as well as achieve Kachi-koshi in his first Ozeki in the minimum amount of matches in his first Ozeki Basho.
Aioyama has been ranked as high as S1, but he has been San'yaku (Top Rank) only once since 2015. In March he had, arguably, the best Makuuchi Basho of his career, 11-4, and won Gino-sho (Technique Prize), advancing from M13w to M4w. He started out 3-3 in this Basho, but has lost his last 4, meaning that he is in danger of going down the Maegashira ladder. He needs to win 5 of his 2nd half matches to avoid that fate.
Finishing move: Frontal Force Out (Yorikiri)
Time: 5.8 seconds.
Asanoyama's winning times so far (seconds):
3.7; 4.2; 7.4; 8.6; 69.0; 4.2; 4.5, and 5.8
Average time: 13.43; Average time without the 69 second match: 5.49
Takakeisho (Age 23, 5'9", 373 lbs) (O1e) (5-3) lost to Hokutofuji (Age 28, 6'1",346 lbs)(M5w) (5-3) in a match that he very much needed to win. This match was over in an eye blink, a very disappointing performance. Takakeisho needs to win 3 more matches in order to keep his Ozeki rank. If he loses that rank he must begin an arduous process of achieving 3 consecutive Basho with a total of 33 wins to get it back. His schedule gets much more difficult in the 2nd half of the Basho.
Takakeisho had a 10-4 career record against Hokutofuji going into this match and Hokutofuji had lost his previous 2 matches in this Basho. He fell hard from K1 after a March Basho in which he finished 4-11. He has been yo yoyo-ing between K and high M for the last 7 Basho and went into this one with his lowest ranking since September of 2018. It will most likely take consecutive Kachi-koshi to get him back to San'yako. This could be the first. As far as Takakeisho goes, he has had some very good matches. He has also lost 2 of his 3 matches to M3 and M5 opponents. In the March Basho, his 7-8 Make-koshi included 5 losses to Maegashira.
Finishing move: Frontal Push Out (Oshidashi)
Time: 1.0 seconds.
4. The Ex-Ozeki on the Comeback Trail.
Terunofuji (Age 26, 6'2", 379 lbs) (M17e) (7-1) defeated Nishikigi (M16e) (2-6). This was perhaps his toughest win so far, his opponent putting up a tremendous struggle. It is perhaps not surprising that a relatively healthy and highly motivated Rikishi who has spent 9 consecutive Basho in what might be described, to use a baseball analogy, as the "low minors" following injuries that knocked him down from Ozeki, would be showing mostly dominating form against the low Ms he has been facing. Still, you can only fight the opposition that is on the other side of the dohyo (ring). He is riding a 5 match winning streak and has every chance of going into the late rounds of this Basho in serious contention. At that point, the rankings are thrown out and the best records face the best records. It is very possible that he may find himself in a late Basho match with Asanoyama, Hakuho, or both. But for now, its one match at a time.
Finishing move: Frontal Force Out (Yorikiri)
Time: 21.2 seconds.
5. The Rookies (Note: My definition of Rookie is actually incorrect for this sport. A "Rookie" in Sumo is a Rikishi who is participating in his first Makuuchi (Top Tier) Basho. I have expanded that definition a bit in order to follow some new young talent.
Kotoshoho (Age 20, 6'3", 364 lbs) (M15e) (6-2) lost to Sadanoumi (M12e) (4-4). This was Kotoshoho's 2nd defeat in the last 3 matches after blasting out of the blocks to a 6-0 start on his Maiden Makuuchi voyage. Welcome to the "Big Leagues." He fought a valiant almost 13 second match, but in the end, the experienced veteran (33 Makuuchi Basho, all but 3 as Maegashira) got the best of him. Sadanoumi is looking for 4 more wins to climb the M ladder. He has been as high as M1 and as low as M17. He has the additional incentive of breaking a 3 Basho Make-koshi (losing record) streak. In his 18th season as Rikishi, this was an important win for Sadanoumi. It was an excellent learning experience for the talented youngster.
Finishing move: Over Arm Throw (Uwatenage)
Time: 12.9 seconds.
Kotonowaka (Age 22, 6'2" ,373 lbs) (M13w) (4-3-1[Forfeit] forfeited his match to Tochinosin (M11w) (5-3). He suffered a left knee injury in his loss to Kaisei yesterday. The seriousness of his injury, and how long it will keep Kotonowaka out of action, is not known at this time.
Wakatakakage (Age 25, 6'0", 273 lbs) (M14w) (4-4) defeated Shohozan (M12w) (2-6). Wakatakakage is half-way to his goal of Kachi-Koshi and a climb up the Maegashira ladder. Every win is important now for Shohozan, as his last two Basho have yielded 11-19 and a drop from M7 to M12. A really bad finish might drop him to Juryo (2nd Tier) for the first time since September of 2015. He is in his 15th year as Rikishi and reached as high as K1 five times.
Finishing move: Frontal Push Out (Oshidashi)
Time: 2.6 seconds.
Today's Juryo (2nd Tier) Substitute: None
+++
Day 7:
Top Rank: (ALL BELOW ADDED JULY 25)
Hakuho (Y1e) 7-0; Asanoyama (O1w) 7-0; Mitakeumi (S1w) 7-0
Shodai (S1e) 6-1
Takakeisho (O1e) 5-2
Daieisho (K1e) 4-3
Okinoumi (K1w) 3-4
Others with 1 loss:
Myogiryu (M10w) 6-1; Kotoshoho (M15e) (Rookie) 6-1; Terunofuji (M17e) (ex-Ozeki trying to come back from Jonidan [5th Tier] 6-1
Rookies:
Kotoshoho (M15e) 6-1
Kotonowaka (M13w) 4-3
Wakatakage (M14w) 3-4 (lost to Terunofuji (see above and below) after 3 consecutive wins)
Results
Day 7 Results (Sumo Reference) (ADDED JULY 25)
Basho Cumulative Win-Loss Martrix (Sumo Reference) (ADDED JULY 25)
Day 7: July 25: Japanese Sumo Association (click on rikishi name for relevant
data including percentage of each Kimarite (finishing) move used, rank and full results of last 5 tournaments, all on one page) (ADDED JULY 25)
Daily Cumulative Results (Japan Times) (ADDED JULY 25, 2020)
Day 7 Time of Each Match: (nikkansports.com) (in Japanese, use Google Translate) Matches are in order from lowest rank to highest. Check against Sumo Reference above, which has matches in order from high to low. (ADDED JULY 25)
Wrestler (Abi--M5e--3-4) ripped for eating out during coronavirus crisis (Kyoto News) (ADDED JULY 25)
Abi has been withdrawn from the Tournament and is slated to have a "polymerase chain reaction test" to determine if he tests positive for Covid-19.
7th consecutive victory Asanoyama, Yokozuna expecting 990,000 yen (a little more than 9,300 USD) commemorative medal sale (Nikkansports.com) (in Japanese--use Google Translate)
Hakuho rolls Kiribayama to the bottom of the ring / 7th day photo feature (Nikkansports.com) (Japanese--use Google Translate) action photos from each match, in order, from lowest to highest rank, as can be seen in the Sumo Reference Day 7 Results above. The photo of the person with the banner in the middle of the dohyo (ring) is the announcement of Abi's forefeit (see article above).
Videos:
Day 7 Video highlights (short highlights of all 21 matches--NHK) (ADDED JULY 26 (Between 25 and 30 minutes)
Developments of Interest: (All finishing moves will be linked to demonstration videos. Source for all match times is Nikkansports.com (Day 7) (Japanese, use Google Translate, but you can see the times without it. Bouts are from lowest to highest rank).
Note: Source for Rikishi Dimensions: Japan Sumo Association Database. Heights are rounded to the nearest inch, weights to the nearest pound.
1. A milestone win: Kotoshogiku (Age 36, 5'11", 392 lbs) (M14e) (5-2), the oldest Rikishi in this Makuuchi Basho, defeated Nishikigi (M16e) (2-5). It was Kotoshogiku's 713th Makuuchi win, moving him into 7th place on the all time list, ahead of Harumafuji (70th Yokozuna, who wrestled from 2002-2017, and was Yokozuna from 2012-2017). Kotoshhogiku was Ozeki from November 2011-January 2017. He has had 1,473 matches in 111 Basho, with a career record of 822-655-38 (forfeits). His Career Makuuche (Top Tier) record is, as of today, 713-606-38 in 1,333 matches and 91 Basho. He has won 2 Yusho (Championships) and 6 Jun-Yusho (2nd place). Hakuho owns the most Makuuchi wins with 1,071.
Finishing move: Frontal Force Out (Yorikiri)
Time: 4.6 seconds.
2. Yokozuna action: Grand Champion Hakuho (Age 35, 6'4", 333 lbs) (Y1e--69th Yokozuna) rolled on, winning his 7th consecutive match over Kiribayama (Age 24, 6'1", 298 lbs) (M3w) (2-5). Kiribayama is a good up and coming Rikishi. He began his career in 2015 and was promoted to the Makuuche (Top Tier) Circuit for the January 2020 Basho. He began as M17e and has advanced to M3w in 2 Basho. His record as Maegashira is 24-15 through today's loss. To illustrate what a high ranking M has to face in the first week of a Tournament, here is his schedule for the first 7 matches (rankings only): Note: just a reminder, San'yaku (Top Rankers) are K,S,O, and Y.
K1e (L), K1w (L), M4e (W), S1e (L), O1w (L) (a 69 second marathon against then and still undefeated Asanoyama), O1e (W) (a victory over the other Ozeki, Takakeisho, who is "on the bubble" as an Ozeki and could lose his rank if he doesn't win 8 matches. Takakeisho outweighs Kiribayama by 75 pounds, yet K forced him out (Yorikiri) in 7.6 seconds--see Day 6 below). Y1e (L). That is the kind of running of the guantlet that every high ranking M has to deal with in the 1st half of a Basho. With a bit of luck, Kiribayama could have been 3-4 with victories over both Ozeki. Look for his record to improve in the 2nd half and keep an eye on this young talent. This is his first experience fighting San'yaku Rikishi. No one can predict the future, but I don't think it will be his last. Unfortunately, he was gobbled up by the Champion, just like everyone else on the menu so far.
Finishing move: Frontal Force Out (Yorikiri)
Time: 2.1 seconds.
Hakuho's winning times so far (seconds) (all but oone against Ms): 4.5; 2.4; 3.7; 2.8; 4.3, 2.8, and 2.1
Average: 3.23 seconds. Nuff said. Hakuho will face mostly San'yaku from here on. Kiribayama will face mostly Ms.
3. Top Rank v Top Rank
There was 1 match between San'yaku today:
Daieisho (K1e) (Age 26, 6'0", 362 lbs) (4-3) defeated Okinoumi (Age 34, 6'2", 353 lbs) (K1w) (3-4). This was an important match for both Rikishi, mostly in the context of their future ranking. K ranking is a very difficult transition in that the competition gets much more difficult than M. Most K's come from a winning Basho as a high M (Daieisho [M1--8-7], and Okinoumi [M2e--8-7]). In order to remain a Komusubi, the Rikishi must earn a Kachi-Koshi (winning record, at least 8 wins). This match allowed Daieisho to get one step closer to his goal, while it put a little more pressure on Okinoumi. Each of their schedules will get more difficult in the 2nd week and wins will be hard to come by. This one was precious for Daieisho. It also was sweet in another way. Daieisho has had a difficult time head to head against Okinoumi. He was 5-10 going into this match.
Finishing move: Frontal Force Out (Yorikiri)
Time: 7.1 seconds.
4. The 2 Ozeki
Asanoyama (Age 26, 6'2", 379 lbs) (O1e) (7-0) defeated Takarafuji (M3e) (2-5). Asanoyama in his first Basho as Ozeki, remained undefeated with this win. Takarafuji will feel more pressure to win and advance his ranking. He had visions of promotion to Komusubi with a good tournament. He will really have to perform well in the second half to avoid going down the Maegashira ladder.
Finishing move: Frontal Force Out (Yorikiri)
Time: 4.5 seconds. Asanoyama has now won 7 of 8 against Takarafuji.
Takakeisho (Age 23, 5'9", 373 lbs) (O1e) (5-2) moved one step closer to his goal of Kachi-koshi (8 wins) that will keep him at Ozeki level, beating Kagayaki (M4e) (3-4). If he doesn't get them, he will be demoted to Sekiwake and have to pass the grueling test of winning 33 matches in 3 Basho to get back to Ozeki. Though he is 2 matches behind the leaders, the most difficult part of his Basho is ahead of him in week 2. He is going through a remarkable test for one so young. Reaching Ozeki before 25 is quite an achievement. He is looking to stay there.
Finishing move: Frontal Thrust Down (Tsukiotashi)
Time: 4.8 seconds.
5. The other undefeated San'yako
Mitakeumi (Age 27, 5'11", 386 lbs (S1w) (7-0), in the shadow of the Asanoyama-Kakuho story, remained undefeated with a forfeit win over Abi (M5e) (3-4). Abi's story is one of the more disappointing ones in this Basho (see above under "Articles"). Whether or not he will be allowed back into the Basho if he tests negative is unknown at this time.
6. The Rookies and the ex-Ozeki on the Comeback Trail
Kotoshoho (Age 20, 6'3", 364 lbs) (M15e) (6-1) bounced back from his loss yesterday with a win over Shimanoumi (2-5) to stay within reach of the leaders. Also of great importance is the fact that he is now 2 wins away from Kachi-Koshi in his 1st Makuuche Basho. How far up the Maegashira ladder he goes will be determined by how many matches he wins. It is very rare for a low ranked Maegashira to win a Basho. But Tokoshoryu (Age 33, 5'11', 414 lbs (M7w) did exactly that as M17w in the January 2020 Basho (14-1, with wins over Shodai (M4w at the time) and Takakeisho (O1e). The amazing saga of this win, a "Cinderella" story on many levels, is concisely told in his Wikipedia Biography.
Finishing move: Underarm Throw (Shitatenage)
Time: 8.0 seconds
Kotonowaka (Age 22, 6'2" ,373 lbs) (M13w) (4-3) lost to Kaisei (M10e) (3-4). Unfortunately Kotonowaka came down hard on his left knee at the end of the match. It is hoped that it was not a serious injury
Wakatakakage (Age 25, 6'0", 273 lbs) (M14w) (3-4) lost to Terunofuji (Age 28, 6'4", 397 lbs) (M17e) (6-1), the one time Ozeki who dropped as far as Jonidan (5th Tier) due to a number of injuries. Terunofuji is the "feel good" story of this Basho, and he kept himself in contention for Yusho (Championship). For Wakatakakage, a 3 match winning streak came to an end. For the 2nd time in this Basho, Terunofuji won with a powerful, painful move (see Day 4 below). Having your opponent get under your arms and then crushing them against you while he lifts you out out of the dohyo (ring) cannot be a pleasant experience.
Finishing move: Arm Barring Forceout (Kimedashi)
Time: 5.7 seconds
7. Today's Juryo (2nd Tier) Substitute: Kyokushuko (Age 31, 6'2", 337 lbs) (J3w), a 13 year veteran who has been as high as M4, but has been yo yoing up and down the Juryo ranks for the last 3 years, lost to Chiyomaryu (Age 29, 5'10", 419 lbs (M15w) (1-6). They both began their careers in May of 2007. They both may be back together in Juryo in September.
+++
Day 6:
Top Rank: (ALL BELOW ADDED JULY 24, 2020)
Hakuko (Y1e) 6-0;Asanoyama (O1w 6-0); Mitakeumi (S1w) 6-0
Shodai (S1e) 5-1
Takakeisho (O1e) 4-2
Daieisho (K1e) 3-3
Okinoumi (K1w) 3-3
Other undefeated: None
First loss:
Myogiryu (M10w) 5-1; Kotoshoho (M15e) 5-1
Rookies:
Kotoshoho (M15e) 5-1
Kotonowaka (M13w) 4-2
Wakatakakage (M14w) 3-3 (has won 3 in a row)
Ozeki comeback from Jonidan (5th tier)
Terunofuji (M17e) 5-1 (defeated Kotoshoho today)
Results:
Day 6 July 24 Results (Sumo Reference) (ADDED JULY 24, 2020)
Basho Cumulative Win-Loss Martrix (Sumo Reference) (ADDED JULY 24)
Day 6: July 24: Japanese Sumo Association (click on rikishi name for relevant
data including percentage of each Kimarite (finishing) move used, rank and full results of last 5 tournaments, all on one page) (ADDED July 24)
Daily Cumulative Results (Japan Times) (ADDED JULY 24, 2020)
Day 6 Time of Each Match: (nikkansports.com) (in Japanese, use Google Translate) Matches are in order from lowest rank to highest. Check against Sumo Reference above, which has matches in order from high to low. (ADDED JULY 24)
Articles:
Japan Times Day 6 Tournament Report (ADDED JULY 24)
Hakuho remains undefeated as leading group shrinks to 3 (Kyodo News--same story as JT, with different photos) (ADDED JULY 24)
Kiribayama (M3w--2-4)defeats Ozeki (Takakeisho--(O1e--4-2)and blooms with "surveillance" of Tsururyu (now defunct stable?) (Nikkansports.com) (in Japanese--use Google Translate)
A feature story on Kiribayama, who yesterday took Asanoyama (O1w) to the limit before losing a 1 minute 9 second struggle, and today beat the other Ozeki in 7.6 seconds. (ADDED JULY 24)
Photos:
Hakuho, Asanoyama, and Mitakeumi protect all wins / 6th day photo feature (Nikkansports.com) (Japanese--use Google Translate) action photos from each match, in order, from highest to lowest rank, as can be seen in the Sumo Reference Day 6 Results above.
Video:
Day 6 Video highlights (short highlights of all 21 matches--NHK) (ADDED JULY 25 (Between 25 and 30 minutes)
Developments of Interest: (All finishing moves will be linked to demonstration videos. Source for all match times is Nikkansports.com (Day 6) (Japanese, use Google Translate, but you can see the times. Bouts are from lowest to highest rank). (ALL ADDED JULY 26)
Note: Source for Rikishi Dimensions: Japan Sumo Association Database. Heights are rounded to the nearest inch, weights to the nearest pound.
ALL OF THE BELOW DEVELOPMENTS WERE ADDED ON JULY 26
1. Yokozuna action: Grand Champion Hakuho (Age 35, 6'4", 333 lbs) (Y1e--69th Yokozuna) continued his march through this Basho (Tournament) with his 6th consecutive win, an easy victory over Takarafuji (M3e) (2-4). Hakuho is beginning this Basho as he began the last one in March. In that Basho he won his first 9 matches before losing to 2 Rank and Filers and being forced at 12-2, to battle his fellow Yokozuna (Kakuryu--Y1w--12-2 (71st Yokozuna--who bowed out of this Basho after aggravating an elbow injury on Day1) in a winner take all final bout (NHK Youtube). It was an epic 24.3 second struggle finally won by the Grand Champion, one of the best matches you will see.
In his first 6 matches Hakuho has faced 1 San'yaku (Okinoumi--K1w) on Day 1, and then 5 Maegashira (Rank and Filers). This is how Basho are set up, with the best match ups held off until the second week. Hakuho is expected to win these early matches, which he has, but in this Basho he has been particularly dominant. One indicator of dominance is, in my opinion, the duration time of the matches. So far his victories have come in these times (seconds): 4.5; 2.4; 3.7; 2.8; 4.3, and 2.8. That is an average of 3.35 seconds per match. While many matches last less than 5 seconds, to average less than 4 over this duration, no matter what the level of competition, is remarkable.
Hakuho has had a difficult time the last 2 years, missing 3 entire Basho and not being able to finish 4 others (absence from Basho is usually due to injury). In the Basho in which he returned after these 7 he went: 11-4; 15-0 (Champion--Yusho--his 41st); 10-4-1(forfeited Day 15 match); 15-0 (Yusho--his 42nd); 12-3 (2nd Place--Jun-Yusho--his 22nd); 14-1 (Yusho--his 43nd); and 13-2 (Yusho--his 44th). To put some context on these numbers, Hakuho has 12 more career Yusho in Makuuchi Basho (Top Rank Tournaments) than the Rikishi with the 2nd most Yusho, Taiho (48th Yokozuna--1961-1971), and 13 more than the 3rd, Chionofuji (58th Yokozuna--1970-1981). Hakuho entered this Basho with 4 months of rest.
Next week, the road gets much more difficult, (matches againsst all all the other San'yaku--with the exception of Kakuryu). It will be interesting to see how many he wins and how dominant he remains.
Finishing move: Frontal Push Out (Oshidashi)
Time: 2.8 seconds.
2. Top rank v Top Rank
There was one all San'yaku match today:
Mitakeumi (Age 27, 5'11",386 lbs (S1w) (6-0) defeated Okinoumi (Age 34, 6'2", 353 lbs) (K1w) (3-3). Mitakeumi quietly kept his perfect record. This is the fourth time he has been promoted to Sekiwake. This promotion came as result of an excellent 10-5 record as M3w in the March Basho. Half of his wins came against San'yaku. The record would have been even more impressive but for the fact he lost his last two matches to lower ranked Maegashira. He was demoted to Komusubi after 7-8 finishes but dropped all the way from S1 to M3 after a 6-9 Basho. Two more wins (kachi-koshi--a winning Basho, will keep him at his present rank. In addition to being a top contender in this Basho, he has the more far reaching goal of 11 or more wins in three consecutive basho for promotion to Ozeki.
In the last 7 years, Okinoumi has reached Sekiwake rank twice (he had to pull out of both Basho and was demoted to Maegashira). He has reached Komusubi rank 3 times. Twice he was demoted back to M after one Basho. This is his 3rd time. The highlight of his career was the 2 Kinboshi (Gold Star Wins by Ms over Yokozunas) he earned in the September 2016 Baho (he was M1e at the time and earned a promotion directly to S1 as a result--going right back to M after a poor performance in the November 2016 Basho). He has participated in 26 of his last 29 Basho as a M. He needs 5 more wins when wins will be more difficult, to avoid another demotion to Juryo.
Finishing move: Frontal Thrust Down (Tsukiotashi)
Time: 7.9 seconds.
3. The 2 Ozeki
Asanoyama (Age 26, 6'2", 379 lbs), the new Ozeki (01w) won his 6th match in a row, beating Onosho (M2w) (0-6). He, like Hakuho, has had matches with 1 san'yaku (Daieisho (K1e on Day 4) and 5 Maegashira. He has not been quite as dominant as Hakuho (see above), needing to pull 1 match "out of the fire" at the very end and winning a titanic 69 second struggle with Kiribayama (M3w) on Day 5. His winning times have been (seconds): 3.7; 4.2; 7.4; 8.6; 69.0; and 4.2, for an average time of 16.18 seconds. If you remove the 69 second match, the average is 5.62. His road also gets more difficult next week, but no one can argue with his start, and he is 2 victories away from kachi-koshi (winning Tournament) which would keep his rank. But right now, he is concentrating on Yusho in his 1st Ozeki performance.
Onosho has a different predicament. He was promoted to M2w from M5w as result of an excellent March Basho during which he earned a Kinboshi (Gold Star win by a Rank and Filer over a Yokozuna--handing Hakuho his first defeat on Day 10) and finished with a 10-5 record. He has been Komusubi once but has bounced up and down in the M ranks for the last 11 Basho. This Basho was an opportunity for him to move back to K, but his performance thus far indicates that may have been a bridge too far. He now needs to have an excellent 2nd half in order to keep his rank where it is. That too may be a bridge too far.
Finishing move: Frontal Force Out (Yorikiri)
Time: 4.2 seconds.
Takakeisho (Age 23, 5'9", 373 lbs) (O1e) (4-2) lost his 2nd match of this Basho, to Kiribayama (M3w) (2-4), the Rikishi who came within an eyelash of defeating the 2 Ozeki on consecutive days. He is still in good shape to get the 4 wins he needs for Kachi-koshi, but the loss hurt his Yusho chances. Kiribayama, who reached Maegashira level for the first time in his 5 year career after an 11-4 (1 forfeit win) in the November 2019 Basho, is finding the road of a high M more difficult after a 20-10 start in his last two Basho. But judging by his performance the last two days, he has potential. How much potential remains to be seen.
Finishing move: Frontal Force Out
Time: 7.6 seconds.
4. The Rookies and the ex Ozeki on the Comeback Trail
Kotoshoho (Age 20, 6'3", 364 lbs) (M15e) suffered his 1st loss (5-1) in Maakuuchi Basho (Top Rank Tournaments). He lost to Terunofuji (Age 28, 6'4", 397 lbs) (M17e) (5-1), the one time Ozeki who dropped as far as Jonidan (5th Tier) due to a number of injuries. In the last 3 years Terunofuji has completely missed 4 consecutive Basho and been missed full participation in 4 others (3 of which he was unable to finish). After the 4th consecutive complete absence he dropped to his lowest rating (Jd48), his lowest ranking since his 3rd professional Basho in September 2011 (Jd59), when he was on the way up. From Jd48, he rapidly rose through the ranks, going 55-10 in 7 Basho (5 of which were 7 match Basho), and getting his promotion to Makuushi Basho for this Tournament. He has to follow the normal trajectory of advancement, but so far, he looks like he needs a higher ranking than he has. He showed that today, handling the young flash who was taking the Basho by storm.
Finishing move; Frontal Force Out (Yorikiri)
Time: 10.6 seconds
Kotonowaka (Age 22, 6'2" ,373 lbs) (M13w) (4-2) broke his 2 match losing streak with a win over Chyomaryu (M15w) (0-6). Chyomaryu has been Maegashira in 16 of the last 19 Basho but he needs to begin winning quickly in order to avoid demotion to Juryo (2nd Tier) after this Basho.
Finishing move: Frontal Push Out (Oshidashi)
Time: 4.1 seconds
Wakatakakage (Age 25, 6'0", 273 lbs) ( (M14w) (3-3), one of the Juryo promotions for this Basho, won his 3rd consecutive match over Sadanoumi (M12e) 2-4. Sadanoumi needs to win 6 of his remaining 9 matches to avoid demotion.
Finishing move: Slap Down (Hatakikomi)
Time: 0.7 seconds
5. Today's Juryo Substitute
Azumaryu (Age 33, 6'4" , 346 lbs)(J3e) defeated Nishikigi (M16e) (2-4). This was the 2nd time in 4 days that a substitute has won in this Basho The other was Meisei on Day 3. Both of these Rikishi (M16e and M17e respectively in the March Basho) were demoted to Juryo after 5-10 and 7-8 records respectively. Which says something about Nishikigi's predicament. At his ranking, there is no place to go but down to Juryo unless he wins 6 of his final 9 matches. He has been an M since July of 2017, rising as high as M2. He has dropped to Juryo only once since then.
Finishing move: Frontal Force Out (Yorikiri)
Time: 10.5 seconds)
+++
Day 5:
Top Rank (ALL BELOW ADDED JULY 23, 2020)
Hakuho (Y1e) 5-0; Asanoyama (O1w) 5-0; Mitakeumi (S1w) 5-0
Takakeisho (O1e) 4-1; Shodai (S1e) 4-1
Daieisho (K1e) 3-2; Okinoumi (K1w) 3-2
Other Undefeated:
Myogiryu (M10w) 5-0, Kotoshoho (Rookie) (M15e) 5-0
Other Rookies:
Kotonowaka (M13w) 3-2
Wakatakage (M14w) 2-3
Ozeki comeback from Jonidan (5th Tier)
Terunofuji (M17e) 4-1
Day 5 Results (Sumo Reference) (ADDED JULY 23, 2020)
Basho Cumulative Win-Loss Martrix (Sumo Reference) (ADDED JULY 23)
Day 5: July 23: Japanese Sumo Association (click on rikishi name for relevant
data including percentage of each Kimarite (finishing) move used, rank and full results of last 5 tournaments, all on one page) (ADDED July 23)
Daily Cumulative Results (Japan Times) (ADDED JULY 23, 2020)
Day 5 Time of Each Match: (nikkansports.com) (in Japanese, use Google Translate) Matches are in order from lowest rank to highest. Check against Sumo Reference above, which has matches in order from high to low. (ADDED JULY 23)
Articles:
Japan Times Day 5 Tournament Report (ADDED JULY 23)
Hakuho, Asanoyama stay undefeated in 5-way tie for leadmeet (Kyodo News--same story as JT, with different photos) (ADDED JULY 23)
Asanoyama for the fifth consecutive victory "I want to convey courage and excitement on the ring" (Nikkansports.com, in Japanese, use Google Translate) (ADDED JULY 23)
Photos:
Hakuho and Asanoyama all win Terunofuji 1 loss/5th day photo feature
(Nikkansports.com) (in Japanese--use Google Translate) (ADDED JULY 24)
Note: Photos begin with opening ceremonies and a celebrity commentator. These are followed with action photos from each match, in order, from lowest to highest rank, as can be seen in the Sumo Reference Day 5 Results above.
Videos:
Day 5 Video highlights (short highlights of all 21 matches--NHK) (ADDED JULY 24) (Between 25 and 30 minutes)
Developments of Interest: Developments of Interest: (All finishing moves will be linked to demonstration videos. Source for all match times is Nikkansports.com (Day 5) (Japanese, use Google Translate, but you can see the times. Bouts are from lowest to highest rank). (ALL ADDED JULY 24)
1. Yokozuna action: Grand Champion Hakuho (Y1e) continued his impressive performance (5-0) with an effortless win over Onosho (M2w) (0-5). It was a bit of payback for one of the 2 losses he suffered (NHK Youtube) while winning the March Basho. At the time Onosho was M7w. It was his 2nd Kinboshi (Gold Star Win--win by a rank and filer over a Yokozuna) in 18 Makuuchi (Top Rank) Basho (Tournaments). He finished that Basho at 9-6, was promoted 5 ranks up the Maegashira ladder for this Basho, and has found the going difficult against the tougher schedule he faces.
Finishing move: Pulling Over Arm Throw (Uwatedashinage)
Time: 4.3 seconds
Times of Hakuho matches (seconds): 4.5; 2.4; 3.7; 2.8; 4.3
2. Top Rank v Top Rank
Shodai (S1e) (4-1) defeated Okinoumi (K1w) (3-2) in today's only match between top rankers. Shodai kept his Sekiwake ranking after the March Basho by winning 3 consecutive matches after starting 5-6 (he finished 8-7). One of those matches was a victory over Yokozuna Grand Master Hakuho, on Day 12. He also got off to a very good start in that Basho, winning 3 of his first 4 before losing 5 of his next 7. Okinoumi, a 16 year veteran with 60 Makuuchi Basho (Top Tier Tournaments) under his belt, was promoted from M2 to San'yaku (Top Rank--Komusubi) as result of an 8-7 March Basho (as M2e). He started the March Basho slowly, losing 4 of his first 5 matches, before winning 7 of his last 10, including a win over Shodai. This is the 5th time he has been promoted to Komusubi, possibly the most difficult rank in the sport. Maegashira (rank and file who make up about 80% of the contestants in Makuuchi Basho, fight mostly each other. Komusubi, the lowest of the top rankers, usually have to fight about half their matches against other San'yaku, all but one of which are against higher ranked Rikishi.
Finishing move: Beltless Arm Throw (Sukuinage)
Time: 3.8 seconds.
2. The 2 Ozeki
Asanoyama (01w), in his first Basho as Ozeki, won his 5th consecutive match, but it was quite a struggle. It took 1 minute 9 seconds to finally subdue Kiribayama (M3w) 1-4.
Finishing move: Frontal Force Out (Yorikiri)
Takakeisho (01e), Kadoban ("on the bubble" after a losing record in the March Basho [make--pronounced mockee-koshi--like kosher])--7-8), who must win at least 8 matches (kachi-koshi--winning Basho) in order to avoid demotion, began with 4 impressive wins. Today he lost his first match, to Tarakafuji (M3e) (2-3).
Finishing move: Slap Down (Hatakikomi)
Time: 14.3 seconds
3. The Rookies.
Kotoshoho (M15e) continued his impressive debut in Makuuchi by winning his 5th consecutive match in domant fashion over Shohozan (M12w) (0-5).
Finishing move: Arm Lock Throw (Kotenage)
Time: 2.3 seconds
To get an idea of just how impressive Kotoshoho's start has been, here are the times of his 5 wins (all in seconds):
3.0; 23.3 (against fellow Rookie Wakatakakage); 4.2; 8.2; 2.3.
Kotonowaka (M13w) lost his 2nd consecutive match after winning his first three. He was beaten in a grueling contest by one of the hottest Rikishi in the Basho, Myogiryu (M10w) (5-0). Myogiryu, an 11 year veteran of 49 Makuuchi Basho, who has risen as high as Sekiwake, is coming off an unimpressive performance in the January and March Basho. He was 9-21, dropping from M1 to M10. A silver lining in his 5-10 January Basho was 2 Kinboshi (Gold Star Wins), one over each Yokozuna (Hakuho and Kakaryu, on consecutive days), showing that he can be a very good wrestler. He has 6 career Kinboshi.
Finishing move: Frontal Pushout (Oshidashi)
Time: 23.5 seconds
Wakatakakage (M14w) began the Tournament with 3 consecutive losses. He has followed that with 2 wins (including 1 over Kotonowaka). Today he defeated Kotoyuki (M17w) (1-4).
Finishing move: Frontal Pushout (Oshidashi)
Time: 10.5 seconds
4. The Ozeki on the Come Back Trail:
Terunofuji (M17E), a sentimental favorite in this Basho due to the fact that he is back in Makuuchi after serious injury dropped him as far as Jonidan (5th Tier), began with 4 consecutive wins. Today, in another grueling match, the streak ended with a defeat by Takayasu (M13e) (3-2).
Finishing move: Frontal Force Out (Yorikiri)
Time: 26.2 seconds.
5. Today's substitute.
The third substitute from Juryo (2nd Tier Tournament) in 3 days, Tobizaru (J2e) got his first taste of Makuuchi action, losing to Kotoeko (M16w) (4-1).
Finishing move: Beltless Arm Throw (Sukuinage).
Time: 8.0 seconds.
The substitutions are due to the withdrawal of Yokozuna (Y1w) Kakuryu after aggravating an elbow injury on Day 1.
+++
Day 4:
Top Rank: (ALL BELOW ADDED JULY 22)
Hakuho (Y1e) 4-0; Asanoyama (O1w) 4-0; Mitakeumi (S1W) 4-0
Takakeisho (O1e) 3-1; Shodai (S1e) 3-1; Okinoumi (K1w) 3-1
Daieisho (K1e) 2-2
Other undefeated:
Myogiryu (M10w) 4-0; Kotoshohu (Rookie) (M15e) 4-0; Terunofuji (M17e) (Ex-Ozeki on the long comeback trail from Jonidan (5th Division) 4-0
Other Rookie: Kotonowaka (M13w) 3-1
Day 4 Results (Sumo Reference) (ADDED JULY 22, 2020)
Basho Cumulative Win-Loss Martrix (Sumo Reference) (ADDED JULY 22)
Day 4: July 22: Japanese Sumo Association (click on rikishi name for relevant
data including percentage of each Kimarite (finishing) move used, rank and full results of last 5 tournaments, all on one page) (ADDED July 22)
Daily Cumulative Results (Japan Times) (ADDED JULY 22, 2020)
Day 4 Time of Each Match: (nikkansports.com) (in Japanese, use Google Translate) Matches are in order from lowest rank to highest. Check against Sumo Reference above, which has matches in order from high to low. (ADDED JULY 24)
Articles
Japan Times Day 4 Tournament Report (ADDED JULY 22)
Hakuho, Asanoyama stay perfect on Day 4 of July meet (Kyodo News--same story as JT, with photos) (ADDED JULY 22)
Photos:
Hakuko and Asanoyama win all four victories in a row! /Day 4 photo feature (Nikkansports.com) (in Japanese--use Google Translate) (ADDED JULY 22)
Note: Photos begin with opening ceremonies and are followed with action photos from each match, in order, from lowest to highest rank, as can be seen in the Sumo Reference Day 4 Results above.
Videos:
Day 4 Video highlights (short highlights of all 21 matches--NHK) (ADDED JULY 23) (Between 25 and 30 minutes)
Developments of Interest: (All finishing moves will be linked to demonstration videos. Source for all match times is Nikkansports.com (Day 4) (Japanese, use Google Translate, but you can see the times. Bouts are from lowest to highest rank).
1. Yokozuna action: Grand Champion Hakuko (Y1e) continued his winning ways with an easy victory over Takanasho (M2e) (1-3). He won by Frontal Thrust Down (Tsukiotoshi). His win times thus far have been: 4.5; 2.4; 3.7; and 2.8 seconds. He has won 4 matches with 4 different winning moves (Kimarite) see Developments of Interest--Day 3 below). The only San'yaku (Y,O,S,K Top Rankers) he faced was on opening day. That is usually how things are scheduled, with the more difficult matches coming deeper in the tournaments. But of course you can only compete against who is on the schedule. Hakuho has looked devastating to this point. (ADDED JULY 22).
2. Today' s substitute for Kakuryu was Chyoshoma (J[uryo]--2nd tier-1w) (0-4). He is an 11 year veteran who's highest rank was M[aegashira] 2 and has been in 17 Makuuchi (Top Tier) Tournaments. He was no match for Terunofuji (M17e) (4-0), trying to fight his way back from Jonidan (5th Tier) after rising as high as Ozeki. Terunofuji, in the first bout of the day, easily defeated him by an Arm Barring Forceout (Kimedashi) in a painful 21.4 seconds. Chyoshoma began his career in 2009 at 88 kilograms (194 lbs). His present weight, according to NHK, is 135 kilograms (298 lbs). (ADDED JULY 23)
The 2 Ozeki: (ADDED JULY 23)
Asanoyama (O1w) in his first basho as an Ozeki, won again, running his record to 4-0. In the only bout of the day that featured to san'yaku (Top Rankers) he beat Daieisho (K1e).
Finising move: Rear Push Out (Okuridashi)
Time: 8.6 seconds
Takakeisho (23) (O1e), Ozeki since age 22 (demoted once after injury but then immediately reinstated and who--if he can stay healthy, seems to have an unlimited ceiling), who needs 8 wins (kachi-koshi) to remain an Ozeki, defeated Endo (M1e) (1-3). With the win, T is now 3-1.
Finishing move: Frontal Pushout (Oshidashi)
Time: 9.0 seconds
The Rookies: (ADDED JULY 23)
Kotoshoho (M15e), (4-0), the youngest contestant (20), in his first Makuuchi (top tier) Tournament, continued his remarkable success, with a victory over Takayasu (M13e) (2-2) (who was an Ozeki for 15 Basho).
Finishing move: Slap Down (Hatakikomi)
Time: 8.2 seconds
Kotonowaka (M13w) (3-1), (12-7 overall in Makuuchi Tournaments), at 22 the 2nd youngest contestant, in only his 19th match at this level, lost his first in this Basho to Watatakakage (M14w) (1-3), who is also, like Kotonowaka, in only his 2nd Makuuchi Basho. He debuted in Makuuchi in the November 2019 Basho, but was injured after winning his first 4 matches and demoted back to Juryo for the next two Bashos, where he went 19-11. That earned him this promotion. At 25, he is the the third Rookie in this Basho. He is now 5-4 in Makuuchi Bashos.
Finishing move: Frontal Force Out (Yorikiri).
Time: 9.1 seconds
+++
Day 3:
Top Rank:
Hakuho (Y1e) 3-0, Asanoyama (O1w) 3-0; Mitakeumi (S1w) 3-0
Takakeisho (O1e) 2-1, Shodai (S1e) 2-1, Daieisho (K1e) 2-1, Okinoumi (K1w) 2-1
Others at the top of the table:
Tamawashi (M9e) 3-0, Miogiru (M10w) 3-0, Kotonowaka (M13w) (Rookie--see developments of interest below) 3-0, Kotoshoho (M15e) (Rookie--see developments of interest below), 3-0 Terunofuji (M17e) (comeback from way back--see developments of interest below) 3-0 (ALL ADDED JULY 21, 2020)
Results:
Day 3 Results--July 21: (Sumo Reference)--includes Standings--see left side of the page (ADDED JULY 21, 2020)
Basho Cumulative Win-Loss Martrix (Sumo Reference) (ADDED JULY 21, 2020)
Day 3: July 21: Japanese Sumo Association (ADDED JULY 21, 2020)
Daily Cumulative Results (Japan Times) (ADDED JULY 22, 2020)
Day 3 Time of Each Match: (nikkansports.com) (in Japanese, use Google Translate) Matches are in order from lowest rank to highest. Check against Sumo Reference above, which has matches in order from high to low. (ADDED JULY 24)
Articles:
Japan Times Day 3 Tournament Report (ADDED JULY 21, 2020)
Hakuho, Asanoyama claim 3rd straight wins at July meet (Kyodo News)--same story as JT, different photos. (ADDED JULY 21, 2020)
Photos:
Ura (Ms[akushita]19E wins with a rare hand twist! In a series of photos/3rd day photo feature (Nikkansport.com) (Japanese, use Google Translate)(ADDED JULY 22)
Note: Today's Nikkansport Photo Features leads with series of 5 photos from a Makushita Tournament (3rd Tier) match. Ura, a rikishi who has been as high as M[aegashira)] 4 in the top tier but who was injured in the Septembr 2017 Makuuchi (Top Tier Tournament) and out until September of 2018, and then suffered another injury that kept him out from January-September of 2019 (knee injuries, from the looks of the strapping he wears) won this match with a very rare finishing move: a Head Twisting Throw (Kubihineri) (NHK Techniques of Sumo video).
After those photos, there are action photos of each Makuuchi match. They are in descending rank order (from Y1 to M17). See the Sumo Reference Results page above to follow.
Videos
Day 3 Video highlights (short highlights of all 21 matches--NHK) (ADDED JULY 22) (Between 25 and 30 minutes)
Developments of Interest: (All finishing moves will be linked to demonstration videos). Source for all match times is Nikkansports.com (Day 3) (Japanese, use Google Translate, but you can see the times. Bouts are from lowest to highest rank).
1. Yokuzuna action: After a difficult win on Opening day (4.5 seconds) with a match turning Under Shoulder Swing Down (Katasukashi) against Okinoumi (K1w), Grand Champion Hakuho's (Y1e) last two wins have come by quick opening power moves (6.1 seconds combined).
His Day 2 win came against Yutakayama (M1w) with an Overarm Throw (Uwatenage) (2.4 seconds). And on Day 3 he beat Endo (M1e) with a Frontal Pushout (Oshidashi). Time: 3.7 seconds. (ADDED JULY 22)
2. The 2 Ozeki:
Asanoyama (O1w), beginning his Ozeki term, remained undefeated (3-0) with a win over Yutakayama (M1w) (0-3). He won with a Frontal Force Out with a Mawashi [belt] Grip (Yorikiri), the most employed finishing move (Kimarite). Time: 7.4 seconds. (ADDED JULY 22)
Takakeisho (O1e) (3-0) moved within 5 of his goal of 8 wins to remain Ozeki by defeating Okinoumi (K1w) (2-1). He is a power rikishi and won with a power move: Frontal Push Down (Oshitaoshi). Time 3.4 seconds. (ADDED JULY 22)
3. Ex-Ozeki on the comeback trail.
Teranofuji (M17e), finally back in the Top Rank after being exiled as far down as Jonidan (5th Tier) since March of 2018, continued his positive showing, with his 3rd consecutive win. He defeated Chiyomaru (M15w) (0-3).
Finishing Move (Kamarite): Overarm Throw (Uwatenage)
Time: 9.2 seconds. (ADDED JULY 22)
4. The Rookies. Both rookies remained undefeated.
Kotonowaka (M13w) (3-0) defeated Watatakakage (M14w) (0-3)
Finishing Move (Kamarite): Frontal Pushout (Oshidashi)
Time: 3.3 seconds.
Kotoshohu (M15e) (3-0) defeated Nishikigi (M16e) (1-2)
Finishing Move: (Kamarite): Frontal Pushout (Oshidashi). Time: 4.2 seconds. (ADDED JULY 22)
5. Meisei (Juryo [Second Tier] 1e) will substitute for the injured Kakuryu (Y1w) t He was 2-0 in the Juryo Tournament and was demoted back to Juryo from Makuuchi (Top Tier). He will be fighting a lower ranked M (rank and filer) schedule. His record will be available in the Juryo statistics. (ADDED JULY 21, 2020). The replacement is indeterminate and can change from day to day (See Day 4 above). (corrected July 22, 2020).
+++
Day 2:
Top Rank: Hakuho (Y1e) 2-0, Asanoyama (O1w) 2-0; Takakeisho (O1e) 2-0, Shodai (S1e) 2-0, Mitakeumi (S1w) 2-0, Daishio (K1e) 2-0
Okinoumi (K1w) 1-1
Kakuryu (Y1w) 0-2--dropped out of Tournament due to injury
Rookies: Kotonowaka (M13w) 2-0; Kotoshoho (M15e) 2-0
Results:
Day 2: July 20: (Sumo Reference)--includes Standings--see left side of the page
Basho Cumulative Win-Loss Martrix (Sumo Reference)
Day 2: July 20: Japanese Sumo Association Japanese Sumo Association (click on rikishi name for relevant data including percentage of each Kimarite (finishing) move used, rank and full results of last 5 tournaments, all on one page)
Daily Cumulative Results (Japan Times)
Day 2 Time of Each Match: (nikkansports.com) (in Japanese, use Google Translate) Matches are in order from lowest rank to highest. Check against Sumo Reference above, which has matches in order from high to low. (ADDED JULY 24)
Articles:
Yokozuna Kakuryu pulls out of July meet with elbow injury (Kyodo News, July 20, 2020).
Feature article: Asanoyama rushes to win two consecutive wins. "Rope jumping" effect gives him a solid waist (nikkansports.com) (Article is in Japanese--Use Google Translate for English). (ADDED JULY 21)
Japan Times Day 2 Tournament Report
Asanoyama, Hakuho impress on Day 2 of July meet(Kyodo News, July 20, 2020)--Same story as JT, different photo. (ADDED JULY 21)
Photos:
Various interesting Day 2 action photos (Nikkansports.com) (in Japanese--use Google Translate). (ADDED JULY 22)
Note especially Terutsuyoshi (M[aegashira] 7e), who throws more salt (a ring [dohyo] purification ritual) before a single match than most other rikishi throw in a whole Tournament.
Videos:
.Day 2 Video highlights (short highlights of all 21 matches--NHK) (ADDED JULY 21, 2020) (Between 25 and 30 minutes)
Developments of interest. (2-5 BELOW ADDED JULY 21, 2020) (All finishing moves will be linked to demonstration videos). Source for all match times is Nikkansports.com (Day 2) (Japanese, use Google Translate, but you can see the times. Bouts are from lowest to highest rank).
1. Yokozuna Kakuryu (Y1w) was forced to drop out of the Tournament due to an elbow injury suffered in his opening day loss (see below). He has struggled with injuries recently but had a terrific March Basho, winning 8 in a row to battle Yokozuna Grand Champion Hakuho in a knock down drag out 24.3 second battle (NHK Youtube) for the Emporer's Cup (see below under March Basho). He is a great rikishi and hopefully he will be back in action soon.
2. Yokozuna action: The only Yokozuna left in the tournament, Grand Champion Hakuko (Y1e), had a dominant win over Yutakayama (M1w), a statement of intent--an underarm throw (Oshidashi). Time: 2.4 seconds. The Champion is now 2-0, looking in ominous form very early.
3. The two Ozeki's. Asanoyama (O1w) dominated Endo (M1e) to go to 2-0. He won easily with a Frontal Force Out (with a Mawashi [belt] grip) (Yorikiri). Time: 4.2 seconds.
Meanwhile Takakeisho (O1e), Kadoban (will be demoted unless he wins 8 matches in this tournament) took care of his business by defeating Onosho (M2w) with a deft dodge followed by an almost dismissive shoulder slap down (Hatakikomi). Time: 4.1 seconds. T is now 2-0.
4. Terunofuji (M17), a 2 year Ozeki coming back on the long trail from injuries that dropped him all the way to the Jonidan (5th) Division (where Sumo are only receiving room and board), and a sentimental favorite in this Basho, raised his record to 2-0 with a hard earned win after a long struggle (19.9 seconds) over Kotoeko (M16w). A Yorikiri forceout after a long stalemate won the match.
5. The Rookies: 20 year old Kotoshoko (M15e) went to 2-0 with a win over Wakatakakage (M14w) (23.3 seconds) by snatching victory from an almost certain defeat with a desperation Frontal Thrust Down (Tsukiotashi) just as he was about to go out.
22 year old Kotanowaka (M13w) beat Sadonoumi (M12e) ran his overall Makuuchi--Top Division tournament record to 12-6 and is now 2-0. He overpowered his opponent with a Frontal Push Out (Oshidashi). Time: 6.7 seconds).
+++
Day 1
Top Rank: Hakuho (Y1e) 1-0; Asanoyama (O1w) 1-0, Takakeisho (O1e) 1-0, Shodai (S1e) 1-0, Mitakeumi (S1w) 1-0, Daieisho (K1e) 1-0...
Top Rank defeats: Kakuru (Y1w) 0-1, Okinoumi (K1w) 0-1
Rookies: Kotonowaka (M13w) 1-0, Kotoshoho (M15e) 1-0
Results:
Day 1: July 19: (Sumo Reference)--includes Standings--see left side of the page
Basho Cumulative Win-Loss Martrix (Sumo Reference)
Day 1: July 19: Japanese Sumo Association Japanese Sumo Association (click on rikishi name for relevant data including percentage of each Kimarite (finishing) move used, rank and full results of last 5 tournaments, all on one page)
Daily Cumulative Results (Japan Times)
Day 1 Time of Each Match: (nikkansports.com) (in Japanese, use Google Translate) Matches are in order from lowest rank to highest. Check against Sumo Reference above, which has matches in order from high to low. (ADDED JULY 24)
Articles:
Japan Times Day 1 Tournament Report
Hakuho survives, Kakuryu falls on Day 1 of July meet (Kyodo News)--same story as JT, different photos.
Day 1Video highlights (short highlights of all 21 matches--NHK) (Between 25 and 30 minutes)
Day 1 Video highlights (longer highlights from selected matches, with selected interviews (English translations--NHK) (It is unkown how long these highlights will be available). (About 50 minutes)
Day 1 Bout of the Day: Takakeisho (O[zeki]1e) v Yutakayama(M[aegashira]1w) (NHK) (REMOVED JULY 21, 2020)
Developments of interest:
For the first time since the Japan Sumo Association began keeping records of finishing moves in 1955, a Yokozuna lost a match with a losing move. Kakuryu lost his match against Endo (M1e) when he went for a leg trip and literally swung and missed, losing his balance and falling on his elbow. The Yokozuna lost by "koshikudake" (inadvertent collapse). It is unkown at this time if M1 Endo receives credit for a Kinboshi (victory by a "rank and filer" over a Yokozuna), since he didn't actually win the match. Endo was credited with a Kinboshi. (ADDED JULY 31).
New Ozeki (1w) Asanoyama won his first match since promotion with a decisive victory over M2e Takanosho.
Ozeki (1e) Takakeisho, "on the bubble" (must achieve "kachi-koshi--a winning tournament--at least 8 wins) to maintain his Ozeki ranking. If he doesn't, he will be relegated to S(ekiwake). He cannot be relegated more than that from Ozeki, and will have to win 33 matches in 3 tournaments to regain Ozeki rank. He is now "kadoban".) won his first match decisively against Yutakayama (M1w) by oshidashi (frontal push out).
Rookies.
1. Kotonowaka (M13w up from M18e after a 9-6 debut in March, won his first match against M13e Takayasu (demoted from M1w after pulling out of the March Tournament with an injury. Takayasu is on long road back from various injuries after being a successful Ozeki from from 7/2017-11/2019.
2. 20 year old Kotoshoho (M15e) made his Makuuchi debut. Just promoted after winning the Juryo Basho in March, he opened his account with a win over Chiomaryu (M15w).
==========================
==========================
==========================
RESULTS: FINAL DAY
TERUNOFUJI (M17e) (13-2) DEFEATED MITAKEUMI (S1w) (11-4) to become Yusho (Champion) of the July 2020 Basho (Tournament). It marked the climax of Terunofuji's long march from Ozeki down and then up through 4 Tiers (passing over about 250 Rikishi) over 8 Basho, after recovery from 2 serious knee injuries and illness. It was a remarkable achievement. For the 2nd time in the last 3 Basho, the winner came from a position of M17, an unprecedented ocurrence. The only mitigating factor was the loss of both Yokozuna to injury in both Basho. However, Terunofuji competed against his closest San'yaku (Top Rank) rivals at the end of the Basho. Against one Ozeki and two Sekiwake, he won 2 of the 3 matches, including today's, for a very well earned victory. He also won 2 of the 3 Prizes given at the end of each Basho:
Shukun-sho (Outstanding Performance Prize), which he shared with 2 other Rikishi), and Gino-Sho (Technique Prize). It was a great ending to a great Tournament, in which most of the top Rikishi wrestled at their highest level (and the records of the high Maegashira attest to that). The combined record of all 8 San'yaku was 72-29. For comparison, the record in the March Basho was 62-43, and for the January Basho 46-53. As in all Basho there were excellent and disappointing performances. But overall, it was contested at a very high standard, in my (still somewhat naive) opinion.
In this match the Tachiai (Initial charge) was pretty even, but soon Terunofuji got a double mawashi (belt) grip (left hand first--his favorite tactic, followed by right hand), and from there used the same power that had won 7 other matches with the force out finishing move to drive his opponent off the premises and claim the Yusho.
"I was only thinking about winning, and about the playoff that would have followed. I was able to achieve double digit wins, which was my goal. I want to keep the momentum in the next tournament and work to get to a high rank."
Mitakeumi, NHK post-match interview. (See Terunofuji's comments below under "Articles.")
Finishing move: Frontal Force Out (Yorikiri)
Time: 5.7 seconds
PS. For those of you who don't already know, a Rikishi's ranking determines his opponents in the next Basho. San'yaku usually contest close to half their matches against other San'yaku. High ranking Maegshira also contest nearly half their matches against San'yaku. The road to San'yaku is not an easy one. Low Ms usually contest most of their matches against other low Ms. However, at the end of the Basho, if a low ranker is in contention, he will fight the most difficult schedule and/or the other contending Rikishi to win the Basho.
+++
Day 15:
Day 15 Results (Sumo Reference) (ADDED AUGUST 2)
Final Top Yusho Standings
Terunofuji (M17e) 13-2 (Yusho--Champion)
Asanoyama (O1w) 12-3 (Jun-Yusho--2nd Place Finisher)
Shodai (S1e) 11-4
Mitakeumi (S1w) 11-4
Yusho Race in Miniature (Wins, Day by Day)
Italics=Forfeit
-=Absence Day 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 910 11 12 13 14 15
Terunofuji: 1 2 3 4 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 12 13 (13-2)
Asanoyama: 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 9 10 11 11 11 12 (12-3)
Shodai: 1 2 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 8 8 9 10 11 11 (11-4)
Mitakeumi: 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 7 7 8 8 9 10 11 11 (11-4)
HAKUHO*: 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 10 10 - - - (10-3)
*=Grand Champion Yokozuna
Longest Winning Streaks: Hakuho 10, Asanoyama 9, Terunofuji 8, Mitakeumi 7, Shodai 6
Terunofuji Finishing moves (wins):
Frontal Force Out (Yorikiri) 8
Arm Barring Force Out (Kimedashi) 2
Frontal Push Out (Oshidashi) 1
Over Arm Throw (Uwatenage) 1
Hand Pull Down (Hikiotashi) 1
Terunofuji Finishing moves (losses):
Frontal Force Out (Yorikiri) 2
============
Key Results (ADDED AUGUST 2)
Terunofuji (M17e) (13-2) defeated Mitakeumi (S1w) (11-4)
Finishing move: Frontal Force Out (Yorikiri)
Time: 5.7 seconds
Asanoyama (O1w) (12-3) defeated Shodai (S1e) (11-4)
Finishing move: Frontal Push Out (Oshidashi)
Time: 9.8 seconds.
Key Matchups of the Day
Terunofuji (Age 28, 6'4", 397 lbs)(M17e) 12-2
Mitakeumi (Age 27, 5'11",386 lbs) (S1w) 11-3
Shodai (Age 28, 6'0", 364 lbs) (S1e) 11-3
Asanoyama (Age 26, 6'2", 379 lbs) (O1w) 11-3
============
Scenarios:
1. If Terunofuji wins, he wins the Basho
2. If Terunofuji loses, he will enter a playoff with Mitakeumi and the winner of the Shodai v Asanoyama match. (3 way playoff).
============
Day 15 Kachi-koshi matches (ADDED AUGUST 2)
Endo (M1e) 8-7 defeated Tokoshoryu (M7w) 7-8
Finishing move: Frontal Force Out (Yorikiri)
Time: 4.8 seconds
Sadanoumi (M12e) 8-7 defeated Nishikigi (M16e) 6-9
Finishing move: Frontal Force Out (Yorikiri)
Time: 4.8 seconds
Matchups to determine Kachi-Koshi (Winnng Basho record)
Endo (M1e) 7-7 v Tokoshoryu (M7w) 7-7
Sadanoumi (M12e) 7-7 v Nishikigi (M16e) 6-8
==========
All Kachi-koshi and Make-koshi information: FINAL (ADDED AUGUST 2)
Kachi-koshi: (8 or more wins, a winning Tournament, Ms will be promoted, San'yaku--O, S, K have different rules for promotion)
Day 8: Hakuho (Y1e) 10-2+1(Forfeit)--Withdrew; Asanoyama (O1w) 12-3
Day 9: Shodai (S1e) 11-4; Terunofuji (M17e) 13-2
Day 10: Mitakeumi (S1w) 11-4
Day 11: Takakeisho (O1e) 8-3+1(forfeit)--Withdrew; Tamawashi (M9e) 10-5; Kotoshogiku (M14e) 8-7; Kotoeko (M16w) 10-5
Day 12: Daieisho (K1e) 10+1(Forfeit)-4; Myogiryu (M10w) 10-5; Wakatakakage (M14w) 10-5
Day 13: Okinoumi (K1w) 9-6; Hokutofuji (M5w) 9-6; Tochinosin (M11w) 10-5; Takayasu (M13e) 10-5; Kotoshoho (M15e) 8-7
Day 14: Terutsuyoshi (M7e) 8-7; Takanosho (M2e) 8-7
Day 15: Endo (M1e) 8-7; Sadanoumi (M12e) 8-7
Make-Koshi (7 or less wins--losing Tournament, Ms will be demoted
San'yaku: Yokozuna Make-koshi results in retirement--Yokozuna cannot be demoted; Ozeki have special rules for demotion; Sekiwake and Komusubi will be demoted)
Day 8: Yutakayama (M1w) 5-10; Onosho (M2w) 2-13
Day 9: None
Day 10: Ikioi (M10w) 3-12; Shimanoumi (M11e) 5-10; Shohozan (M12w) 4+1[Forfeit)-10
Day 11: Abi (M5e) 3-2+1(forfeit)+8 (pulled out of the Tournament by his Stable master after violating JSA Covid 19 social distancing rules); Chiyomaru (M15w) 4-11
Day 12: Takarafuji (M3e) 5-10; Kiribayama (M3w) 6-9; Kagayaki (M4e) 5-10; Ishiura (M8e) 4-11
Day 13: Aioyama (M4w) 5-10; Enho (M6e) 5-10; Chiyotairyu (M8w) 6-9; Kaisei (M10e) 6-9
Day 14: Ryuden (M6w) 7-8; Nishikigi (M16w) 6-9; Kotoyuki 6-7+1(Forfeit) (Withdrew)
Day 15: Tokoshoryu (M7w) 7-8; Kotonowaka (M13w) 4-5+1(Forfeit) (Missed matches 8-13 with a knee injury)
Note: Kakuryu (Y1w) finished 0-1+1(Forfeit) (Withdrew)
=====
Juryo Substitutes (due to injuries to Makuuchi [Top Tier] Basho contestants, Juryo [2nd Tier] contestants are brought in to substitute. Their records in these matches are listed in the Juryo standings, and these matches can have a great impact on the results of the Juryo Basho.
Azumaryu (J3e) 1-0
Meisei (J1e) 1-1
Tobizaru (J2e) 1-1
Kyokoshuho (J3w) 0-1
Daiamami (J4e) 0-1
Ichinojo (J5w) 0-1
Chiyoshoma (J1w) 0-2
3-7
=====
Results:
Day 15 Results (Sumo Reference) (ADDED AUGUST 2)
Basho Cumulative Win-Loss Martrix (Sumo Reference) (ADDED AUGUST 2)
Day 15: August 2: Japanese Sumo Association (click on rikishi name for relevant
data including percentage of each Kimarite (finishing) move used, rank and full results of last 5 tournaments, all on one page) (ADDED AUGUST 2)
Daily Cumulative Results (Japan Times) (UPDATED AUGUST 2)
Day 15 Time of Each Match: (nikkansports.com) (in Japanese, use Google Translate) Matches are in order from lowest rank to highest. Check against Sumo Reference above, which has matches in order from high to low. (ADDED AUGUST 2)
Japan Sumo Association Absence Report (ADDED JULY 30)
=====
Top Rank--FINAL (ALL ADDED AUGUST 2)
Asanoyama (O1w) 12-3 (Jun-Yusho); Hakuho (Y1e) 10-2+1 (Forfeit) (Withdrew from Basho due to injury)
Others with 2 losses:
Terunofuji (M17e) 13-2 (Yusho)
Wakatakakage (M14w) 10-5
Kotoshoho (M16e) 8-7
Terunofuji (M17e)13-2 (Yusho)
Asanoyama (O1w) 12-3 (Jun-Yusho)
Shodai (S1e) 11-4
Mitakeumi (S1w) 11-4
Diaisho (K1e) 10+1(Forfeit)-4
HAKUHO (Y1E) 10-2+1(Forfeit)(Withdrew)
Tamawashi (M9e) 10-5
Myogiryu (M10w) 10-5
Tochinosin (M11w) 10-5
Takayasu (M13e) 10-5
Wakatakakage (M14w) 10-5
Kotoeko (M16w) 10-5
Fewest Match Winners (0-5)
Yutakayama (M1w) 5-10
Takarafuji (M3e) 5-10
Kagayaki (M4e) 5-10
Aioyama (M4w) 5-10
Enho (M6e) 5-10
Shimanoumi (M11e) 5-10
Shohozan (M12w) 5-10
Ishiura (M8e) 4-11
Kotonowaka(M13e) 4-5+1(Forfeit)(Missed 5 matches)
Chiymaru (M15w) 4-11
Abi (M5e) 3-3+1(Forfeit)(Withdrew)
Ikioi (M9w) 3-12
Onosho (M2w) 2-13
KAKURYU (Y1W) 0-1+1(Forfeit)(Withdrew)
Records of M1-M5; Records v San'yaku
M1e: Endo 8-7 1-6
M1w: Yutakayama 5-10 0-5
M2e: Takanosho 8-7 2-4
M2w: Onosho 2-13 0-7
M3e: Takarafuji 5-10 1-6
M3w: Kiribayama 6-9 2-5
M4e: Kagayaki 5-10 0-6
M4w: Aioyama 5-10 0-6
M5e: Abi 3-3(+1F)-8 0-1(F)
M5w: Hokutofuji 9-6 3-2
56-84 (+1 forfeit)
9-47 (+1 Forfeit) against San'yaku
Others who fought San'yaku
M6e: Enho 5-10 0-4
M7e: Terutsuyoshi 8-7 1-0
M9e: Tamawashi 10-5 1-0
M10w: Myogiryu 10-5 1-0
M16w: Kotoeko 10-5 1-0
M17e: Terunofuji 13-2 2-1
53-34
6-5 against San'yaku
=====
Articles:
Japan Times Day 15 Tournament Report (ADDED AUGUST 2)
"When I went down the ranks, there were people who were rooting for me: my family, my stablemaster, and all the members of my stable. Thanks to their support I was able to come back.So many things have happened, but at the very end, I finally faced this day. I believed this day would come where I could smile, that if I worked hard, I would be rewarded."
Terunofuji, reflecting on his achievement. (Japan Times)
Terunofuji clinches championship in comeback tournament (Kyodo News--same story as JT, with different photos (ADDED AUGUST 2)
Terunofuji returns to glory with second championship (Asahi Shimbun) (ADDED AUGUST 2)
"I am so happy to have continued with sumo". (Asahi Shimbun)
The 4 articles below are all from Nikkansports.com All are in Japanese (Use Google Translate) (ALL ADDED AUGUST 2)
Photos: San'yaku: Yokozuna Make-koshi results in retirement--Yokozuna cannot be demoted; Ozeki have special rules for demotion; Sekiwake and Komusubi will be demoted)
Day 8: Yutakayama (M1w) 5-10; Onosho (M2w) 2-13
Day 9: None
Day 10: Ikioi (M10w) 3-12; Shimanoumi (M11e) 5-10; Shohozan (M12w) 4+1[Forfeit)-10
Day 11: Abi (M5e) 3-2+1(forfeit)+8 (pulled out of the Tournament by his Stable master after violating JSA Covid 19 social distancing rules); Chiyomaru (M15w) 4-11
Day 12: Takarafuji (M3e) 5-10; Kiribayama (M3w) 6-9; Kagayaki (M4e) 5-10; Ishiura (M8e) 4-11
Day 13: Aioyama (M4w) 5-10; Enho (M6e) 5-10; Chiyotairyu (M8w) 6-9; Kaisei (M10e) 6-9
Day 14: Ryuden (M6w) 7-8; Nishikigi (M16w) 6-9; Kotoyuki 6-7+1(Forfeit) (Withdrew)
Day 15: Tokoshoryu (M7w) 7-8; Kotonowaka (M13w) 4-5+1(Forfeit) (Missed matches 8-13 with a knee injury)
Note: Kakuryu (Y1w) finished 0-1+1(Forfeit) (Withdrew)
=====
Juryo Substitutes (due to injuries to Makuuchi [Top Tier] Basho contestants, Juryo [2nd Tier] contestants are brought in to substitute. Their records in these matches are listed in the Juryo standings, and these matches can have a great impact on the results of the Juryo Basho.
Azumaryu (J3e) 1-0
Meisei (J1e) 1-1
Tobizaru (J2e) 1-1
Kyokoshuho (J3w) 0-1
Daiamami (J4e) 0-1
Ichinojo (J5w) 0-1
Chiyoshoma (J1w) 0-2
3-7
=====
Results:
Day 15 Results (Sumo Reference) (ADDED AUGUST 2)
Basho Cumulative Win-Loss Martrix (Sumo Reference) (ADDED AUGUST 2)
Day 15: August 2: Japanese Sumo Association (click on rikishi name for relevant
data including percentage of each Kimarite (finishing) move used, rank and full results of last 5 tournaments, all on one page) (ADDED AUGUST 2)
Daily Cumulative Results (Japan Times) (UPDATED AUGUST 2)
Day 15 Time of Each Match: (nikkansports.com) (in Japanese, use Google Translate) Matches are in order from lowest rank to highest. Check against Sumo Reference above, which has matches in order from high to low. (ADDED AUGUST 2)
Japan Sumo Association Absence Report (ADDED JULY 30)
=====
Top Rank--FINAL (ALL ADDED AUGUST 2)
Asanoyama (O1w) 12-3 (Jun-Yusho); Hakuho (Y1e) 10-2+1 (Forfeit) (Withdrew from Basho due to injury)
Shodai (S1e) 11-4; Mitakeumi (S1w) 11-4
Takakeisho (O1e) 8-3+1(Forfeit) (Withdrew from Basho due to injury)
Daieisho (K1e) 10+1[Forfeit)-4
Okinoumi (K1w) 9-6
Others with 2 losses:
Terunofuji (M17e) 13-2 (Yusho)
Rookies:
Wakatakakage (M14w) 10-5
Kotoshoho (M16e) 8-7
Kotonowaka (M13w) 4-5+1(forfeit) -5 (out with a knee injury) (returned on Day 14
10+ Match winners:
Asanoyama (O1w) 12-3 (Jun-Yusho)
Shodai (S1e) 11-4
Mitakeumi (S1w) 11-4
Diaisho (K1e) 10+1(Forfeit)-4
HAKUHO (Y1E) 10-2+1(Forfeit)(Withdrew)
Tamawashi (M9e) 10-5
Myogiryu (M10w) 10-5
Tochinosin (M11w) 10-5
Takayasu (M13e) 10-5
Wakatakakage (M14w) 10-5
Kotoeko (M16w) 10-5
Fewest Match Winners (0-5)
Yutakayama (M1w) 5-10
Takarafuji (M3e) 5-10
Kagayaki (M4e) 5-10
Aioyama (M4w) 5-10
Enho (M6e) 5-10
Shimanoumi (M11e) 5-10
Shohozan (M12w) 5-10
Ishiura (M8e) 4-11
Kotonowaka(M13e) 4-5+1(Forfeit)(Missed 5 matches)
Chiymaru (M15w) 4-11
Abi (M5e) 3-3+1(Forfeit)(Withdrew)
Ikioi (M9w) 3-12
Onosho (M2w) 2-13
KAKURYU (Y1W) 0-1+1(Forfeit)(Withdrew)
Records of M1-M5; Records v San'yaku
M1e: Endo 8-7 1-6
M1w: Yutakayama 5-10 0-5
M2e: Takanosho 8-7 2-4
M2w: Onosho 2-13 0-7
M3e: Takarafuji 5-10 1-6
M3w: Kiribayama 6-9 2-5
M4e: Kagayaki 5-10 0-6
M4w: Aioyama 5-10 0-6
M5e: Abi 3-3(+1F)-8 0-1(F)
M5w: Hokutofuji 9-6 3-2
56-84 (+1 forfeit)
9-47 (+1 Forfeit) against San'yaku
Others who fought San'yaku
M6e: Enho 5-10 0-4
M7e: Terutsuyoshi 8-7 1-0
M9e: Tamawashi 10-5 1-0
M10w: Myogiryu 10-5 1-0
M16w: Kotoeko 10-5 1-0
M17e: Terunofuji 13-2 2-1
53-34
6-5 against San'yaku
=====
Articles:
Japan Times Day 15 Tournament Report (ADDED AUGUST 2)
"When I went down the ranks, there were people who were rooting for me: my family, my stablemaster, and all the members of my stable. Thanks to their support I was able to come back.So many things have happened, but at the very end, I finally faced this day. I believed this day would come where I could smile, that if I worked hard, I would be rewarded."
Terunofuji, reflecting on his achievement. (Japan Times)
Terunofuji clinches championship in comeback tournament (Kyodo News--same story as JT, with different photos (ADDED AUGUST 2)
Terunofuji returns to glory with second championship (Asahi Shimbun) (ADDED AUGUST 2)
"I am so happy to have continued with sumo". (Asahi Shimbun)
The 4 articles below are all from Nikkansports.com All are in Japanese (Use Google Translate) (ALL ADDED AUGUST 2)
Interview with Terunofuji (Nikkansports.com)(in Japanese, Use Google Translate)
Terunofuji is a miracle revival V, the first in 30 places after two steps (Nikkansports.com)(in Japanese, Use Google Translate)
"I fell from Ozeki and went to my [stable]master to say 'Please let me go' many times, but I lost my feelings to my master Isekehama (former Yokozuna Asahi Fuji). Let's do this."
Terunofuji
"Supreme pressure of Terunofuji not Okinoumi" (Nikkansports.com)(in Japanese, Use Google Translate)
"Asanoyama: "I'm weak" I regret and reflect on the runner-up"
"I wanted to win the championship when I was over. I thought I was really weak. I'm very disappointed."
"I managed to get my own sumo in the early stages, but I have to fix things that didn't work in the second half."
"I'm Ozeki, so I thought too much about my responsibility."
"I absolutely want to clear my regrets"
Asanoyama, reflecting on his first Basho as Ozeki
Terunofuji is a miracle revival V, the first in 30 places after two steps (Nikkansports.com)(in Japanese, Use Google Translate)
"I fell from Ozeki and went to my [stable]master to say 'Please let me go' many times, but I lost my feelings to my master Isekehama (former Yokozuna Asahi Fuji). Let's do this."
Terunofuji
"Supreme pressure of Terunofuji not Okinoumi" (Nikkansports.com)(in Japanese, Use Google Translate)
"Asanoyama: "I'm weak" I regret and reflect on the runner-up"
"I wanted to win the championship when I was over. I thought I was really weak. I'm very disappointed."
"I managed to get my own sumo in the early stages, but I have to fix things that didn't work in the second half."
"I'm Ozeki, so I thought too much about my responsibility."
"I absolutely want to clear my regrets"
Asanoyama, reflecting on his first Basho as Ozeki
"Former Ozeki rises from the second stage V/ Terunofuji Photo Special" (Nikkansports.com) (in Japanese, Use Google Translate)
Rather than a selection of photos from selected matches, today's photo essay is all about Terunofuji. It traces his rise, fall, and rise again. It shows his Ozeki promotion the first serious injury he suffered in 2015, and the long road back. It also shows him with the Emporer's Cup, the trophy given to Makuuchi (Top Tier) Champions, as well as the two Prizes he received.
Videos:
Day 15 live replay (2nd half of the schedule) (about 89 minutes) (ADDED AUGUST 4)
Day 15 video highlights (short highlights of all 21 matches, less than 30 minutes) (ADDED AUGUST 2)
Developments of Interest: (All finishing moves will be linked to demonstration videos. Source for all match times is Nikkansports.com (Day 15) (Japanese, use Google Translate, but you can see the times. Bouts are from lowest to highest rank).
1. Top Rank v Top Rank
Asanoyama (Age 26, 6'2", 379 lbs) (O1w) (12-3) defeated Shodai (Age 28, 6'0", 364 lbs) (S1e) (11-4). The final match of the Basho was rendered anti-climactic due to Terunofuji's Yusho gained in the penultimate match. Can a 12-3 mark in one's first Ozeki Basho be a terrible disappointment? Asanoyama was very disappointed (see his comments below under "Articles", but perhaps a bit too self-critical. He had, after all, a great Basho, winning his first 9 matches before splitting his last 6. The most disappointing match was his loss to Terutsuyoshi (M7e), when he was beaten by a leg pick in less than 2 seconds. This after watching Terunofuji lose his match.
So the Yokozuna coronation may have to wait a bit, as Asanoyama will need to win consecutive Basho for the ultimate promotion. As for Shodai, 11 wins could be the start of an Ozeki run. An early 6 match winning streak put him in a good position at 8-1, but then consecutive losses (including a devastating loss to Hokutofuji (M5w) seemingly knocked him out. However, a fortunate walk over against Hakuho, followed by and impressive win over Terunofuji put him back in contention. He came up just a bit short.
In the match Asanoyama was able to establish an advantageous position with arms under Shodai's. Then he overcame Shodai's resistance to push him out.
Finishing move: Frontal Push Out (Oshidashi)
Time: 9.8 seconds.
2. Kachi-Koshi on the final day
Endo (Age 29, 6'0", 331 lbs) (M1e) (8-7) defeated Tokoshoryu (Age 33, 5'11', 414 lbs (M7w) (7-8). In the second Kachi-koshi match of the final day, Endo defeated Tokoshoryu. Tokoshoryu, the surprise winner of the January 2020 Basho, was promoted from M17 to M2 after that win. He was unable to compete at that level (4-11) and dropped back to M7w. He had a much better Basho this time around, winning 6 of his first 10 and 7 of his 1st 13, needing just one more win for Kachi-Koshi. But it was not to be, as he lost his last two matches. He will drop in the rankings but probably not too far. M2 was by far his highest ranking in his 11 year career. From 2013-2016 he fought in 6 and then 12 consecutive Makuuchi Basho. But since then he has been on the yo yo between M and Juryo. His results in this Basho will keep him on the Makuuchi circuit for the 4th consecutive Basho, something he has not done since 2017.
Endo has been bouncing back and forth between Maegashira and Komusubi since 2018. In a usual Basho his 8-7 record would promote him back to Komusubi, but in this Basho all the San'yaku earned Kachi-Koshi and so he will likely stay at his present ranking. He came back from a 1-5 start in this Basho after starting with a murderous schedule (Y,O,Y,O,S,S). He is a talented Rikishi, as shown by his 7 career Kinboshi (Gold Star Win by Maegashira over Yokozuna). He has the capability of turning in a great performance. It just hasn't happened yet.
Endo, who had an 8-0 head to head record against Tokoshoryu, beat him again by winning the Takiai and driving his arms up under Takoshoryu and then switching one hand to the back of his mawashi (belt). From there he easily drove the big man out.
Finishing move: Frontal Force Out (Yorikiri)
Time: 4.8 seconds.
Sadanoumi (Age 33, 6'0", 309 lbs) (M12e) (8-7) defeated Nishikigi
(Age 29, 6'1", 375 lbs) (M16e) (6-9). One of the interesting developments on a last day schedule is that some Rikishi can achieve a Kachi-koshi (winning tournament) with a win, or fall to a Make-koshi (losing tournament ) with a loss. This was an issue in Sumo's match fixing scandal in the early 2010s, as a loss would lead to a demotion that might cost the loser a lot of money. So bribes were given to opponents who had already reached Kachi-koshi. (1--Wikipedia) (2--Guardian [London]). The result of this scandal was that this problem was corrected. At 4-6 and then 6-7, Sadanoumi was in trouble. The match was important to Nishikigi also, as a win might save his Makuuchi rank. But a loss would pretty much guarantee a demotion to Juryo (2nd Tier).
Sadanoumi won 4 of his last 5 and his last 2 in a row to earn his Kochi-koshi on the last day. He won it by dominating from the Tachiai and easily escorting Nishikigi off the premeses. It broke a 3 Basho Make-koshi streak. Nishikigi will participate in the Juryo Basho in September. This will be his second demotion to Juryo in the last year.
Finishing move: Frontal Force Out (Yorikiri)
Time: 4.8 seconds.
3. The Rookies
Wakatakakage (Age 25, 6'0", 273 lbs) (M14w) (10-5) defeated Ishiura (Age 29, 5'9" , 245 lbs (M8e) (4-11). Wakatakakage finished a brilliant Basho that begin with 3 consecutive losses by winning 10 of his last 12, and 7 of his last 8, including a 5 match winning streak. He has recently (like many Rikishi) bulked up, but most of the bulk is muscle gained through intensive weight training. He is quick and intelligent in the dohyo (ring) and seems to learn from his mistakes quickly (see Developments of Interest, Day 13 and 14). He was by far the best of the "rookies" in this Basho. Ishiura had a difficult tournament. The incredible quickness he employed to compile a 9-6 record in the March Basho was, for the most part, neutralized by Rikishi who adjusted to it. Now it is the turn of Ishiura to adjust back.
In a match of two of the smaller but well muscled Rikishi, Wakatakakage simply ejected Ishiura, who seemed to be, (according to the NHK commentary), carrying a foot injury from the day before.
Finishing move: Frontal Push Out (Oshidashi)
Time: 1.4 seconds.
Kotoshoho (Age 20, 6'3", 364 lbs) (M15e) (8-7) lost to Tochinosin (Age 32, 6'3", 381 lbs) (M11w) (10-5). Kotoshoho began his 1st Makuuchi Basho with a flair, winning 5 in a row. After that, as might be expected, things got more difficult. He needed 3 days to earn his Kachi-koshi, but earn it he did, making for a very successful beginning to what could be a long Top Rank career. But he lost some matches through the naivete of inexperience and others, like today's, to a Rikishi who was simply more experienced and better. Tochinosin has been in a long frustrating streak, some of which has been due to a chronic knee problem (for his story see Developments of Interest, Day 12 below) but in this Basho he seemed to shake that off, and wrestle "his sumo", the power game. And he is a powerful Rikishi. He never lost more than 2 in a row and finished with a flourish, winning his last 4 matches and 5 of his last 7. He smashed a 5 Basho Make-koshi streak during which he fell from Ozeki to Maegashira 11. Now that the pendulum has begun to swing the other way, it will be interesting to see how far and how fast he rises.
Finishing move: Slap Down (Hatakikomi)
Time: 2.9 seconds.
Kotonowaka (Age 22, 6'2" ,373 lbs) (M13w) (4-5+1(Forfeit) 5 (missed due to injury) lost to Ryuden (Age 29, 6'3", 337 lbs (M6w) (7-8). It probably wasn't the best choice for Kotonowaka to return to this Basho with a sore knee. How bad a choice will not be known until the next Banzuke (Rankings) are released about 2 weeks before the beginning of the next Basho. Ryuden has suffered Make-koshi in 5 of his last 6 Basho, dropping from K1 to M6. He finished on a high note. But for an early 4 match losing streak, he would have earned a Kachi-koshi.
It was clear from the beginning that Kotowaka was wrestling on one leg and Ryuden put him away with ease. It ended a difficult Basho for Ryuden, as he lost one of his best friends and stablemates Shobushi (Kiyotaka Suetake), who passed away at age 28 from complications of Covid-19 in May. (1--Guardian [London] (2--Chris Sumo Youtube).
Finishing move: Frontal Force Out (Yorikiri)
Time: 5.4 seconds.
4. Today's Juryo (2nd Tier) Substitute
Ichinojo (Age 27, 6'3", 443 lbs) (J5w) lost to Shohozan (Age 36, 5'10", 293 lbs) (M12w) (5-10). This win may or may not secure Shohozan's Makuuchi (Top Tier) status, as he ended the Basho with 3 consecutive wins (although it won't go unnoticed that one was by forfeit, one dealt his opponent a 13th loss without a win, and this one was over a 2nd Tier Rikishi). The match, however, was very important to Ichinojo. He came into this match at 9-5 in the wild Juryo (2nd Tier Basho (that ended up in a 6 Rikishi playoff.) Had he won, it would have been a 7 Rikishi playoff. The Juryo Basho has 14 contestants. But it wasn't to be. The much quicker Shohozan was able to push the Juryo out.
Finishing move: Frontal Push Out (Oshidashi)
Time: 6.0 seconds.
+++
Day 14:
Day 14 Results (Sumo Reference) (ADDED AUGUST 1)
Day 14:
Key Results: (ADDED AUGUST 1)
Shodai (S1e) (11-3) defeated Terunofuji (M17e) (12-2)
Finishing move: Frontal Force Out (Yorikiri)
Time: 6.4 seconds
Mitakeumi (S1w) defeated Kotoeko (M16w) (9-5)
Finishing move: Beltless Arm Throw (Sukuinage)
Time: 11.0 seconds.
Terutsyoshi (M7e) (8-6) defeated Asanoyama (O1w) (11-3)
Finishing Move: Leg Pick (Ashitori)
Time: 1.7 seconds
Standings:
Terunofuji 12-2
Asanoyama 11-3
Shodai 11-3
Mitakeumi 11-3
==========
All Kachi-koshi and Make-koshi information (ADDED AUGUST 1)
Kachi-koshi: (8 wins, a winning Tournament, Ms will be promoted, San'yaku--O, S, K have different rules for promotion)
Day 8: Hakuho (Y1e) 10-2+1(Forfeit)--Withdrew; Asanoyama (O1w) 11-3
Day 9: Shodai (S1e) 11-3; Terunofuji (M17e) 12-2
Day 10: Mitakeumi (S1w) 11-3
Day 11: Takakeisho (O1e) 8-3+1(forfeit)--Withdrew; Tamawashi (M9e) 9-5; Kotoshogiku (M14e) 8-6; Kotoeko (M16w) 9-5
Day 12: Daieisho (K1e) 9+1(Forfeit)-4; Myogiryu (M10w) 10-4; Wakatakage (M14w) 9-5
Day 13: Okinoumi (K1w) 9-5; Hokutofuji (M5w) 8-6; Tochinosin (M11w) 9-5; Takayasu (M13e) 9-5; Kotoshoho (M15e) 8-6
Day 14: Terutsuyoshi (M7e) 8-6; Takanosho (M2e) 8-6
Make-Koshi (8 losses--losing Tournament, Ms will be demoted
San'yaku: Yokozuna Make-koshi results in retirement--Yokozuna cannot be demoted; Ozeki have special rules for demotion; Sekiwake and Komusubi will be demoted)
Day 8: Yutakayama (M1w) 4-10; Onosho (M2w) 1-13
Day 9: None
Day 10: Ikioi (M10w) 2-12; Shimanoumi (M11e) 5-9; Shohozan (M12w) 3+1[Forfeit)-10
Day 11: Abi (M5e) 3-2+1(forfeit)+8 (pulled out of the Tournament by his Stable master after violating JSA Covid 19 social distancing rules); Chiyomaru (M15w) 4-10
Day 12: Takaraufuji (M3e) 5-9; Kiribayama (M3w) 5-9; Kagayaki (M4e) 5-9; Ishiura (M8e) 4-10
Day 13: Aioyama (M4w) 5-9; Enho (M6e) 5-9; Chiyotairyu (M8w) 5-9; Kaisei (M10e) 5-9
Day 14: Ryuden (M6w) 6-8; Nishikigi (M16w) 6-8; Kotoyuki 6-7+1(Forfeit)
==========
Results:
Day 14 Results (Sumo Reference) (ADDED JULY 31)
Basho Cumulative Win-Loss Martrix (Sumo Reference) (ADDED AUGUST 1)
Day 14: August 1: Japanese Sumo Association (click on rikishi name for relevant
data including percentage of each Kimarite (finishing) move used, rank and full results of last 5 tournaments, all on one page) (ADDED AUGUST 1)
Daily Cumulative Results (Japan Times) (UPDATED AUGUST 1)
Day 14 Time of Each Match: (nikkansports.com) (in Japanese, use Google Translate) Matches are in order from lowest rank to highest. Check against Sumo Reference above, which has matches in order from high to low. (ADDED AUGUST 1)
Japan Sumo Association Absence Report (ADDED JULY 30)
==========
Top Rank (ALL ADDED AUGUST 1)
Asanoyama (O1w) 11-3; Hakuho (Y1e) 10-2+1 (Forfeit) (Withdrew from Basho due to injury)
Others with 2 losses:
Terunofuji (M17e) 12-2
Wakatakakage (M14w) 9-5
Kotoshoho (M16e) 8-6
Japan Times Day 14 Tournament Report (ADDED AUGUST 1)
"I was thinking of how my opponent would start the bout since
last night, and I thought I only have one shot at winning... "So he (Terunofuji) still has the sole lead. I want him to win tomorrow."
Terutsuyoshi (Japan Times)
Shodai, Terutsuyoshi stage huge upsets on penultimate day (Kyodo News--same story as JT, with different photos (ADDED AUGUST 1)
The 4 articles below are all from Nikkansports.com All are in Japanese (Use Google Translate) (ALL ADDED AUGUST 1)
Asanoyama, wonder how to take a footstep / Day 14 photo feature (Nikkansports.com) (in Japanese, Use Google Translate)
Today's feature begins with a photo of the scoreboard. It then has two photos from another Bashow. Photos from contains photos from 12 of today's matches, in order, from lowest to highiest, as can be seen in the Sumo Reference Day 11 Results above. Note that the last match in the photo essay is a stop action replay of Terutsyoshi's upset victory over Asanoyama.
Videos:
Day 14 video highlights (short highlights of all 21 matches, less than 30 minutes) (ADDED AUGUST 2)
Developments of Interest: (All finishing moves will be linked to demonstration videos. Source for all match times is Nikkansports.com (Day 14) (Japanese, use Google Translate, but you can see the times. Bouts are from lowest to highest rank).(ADDED AUGUST 3)
1. Key matches of the Day
Asanoyama (Age 26, 6'2", 379 lbs) (O1w) (11-3) LOST to Terutsuyoshi (Age 25, 5'7" , 265 lbs (M7e) (8-6). Terutsuyoshi is known for the prodigious amount of salt he throws (see Developments of Interest, Day 12 below) but he is also a very intelligent Rikishi. What he did in this match was seen by some as "not cricket" (beyond the realm of what a true Rikishi should do to win a match). Others saw it as a brilliant move that completely befuddled the new Ozeki who many felt was about to begin the Yokozuna coronation process by winning his first Ozeki Basho, something only 8 other Rikishi had ever done. Terutsuyoshi has had a solid Basho, and he saw today as his chance to earn his own Kachi-koshi (winning record), as well as help his stablemate Terunofuji. He had telegraphed what he might do on Day 12, by using a rarely used finishing move to beat the rookie Kotoshoho (M15e), depriving him of a Kachi-koshi at the time.
Being outweighed by 114 pounds, and shorter by 7 inches than his San'yaku (Top Rank) opponent, Terutsuyoshi wanted nothing to do with any contests of strength. So he feinted up at Asanoyma at the Tachiai (Initial charge) and then turned, went down, and threw down the Ozeki with a brilliant leg pick. It was all over in a heartbeat. And the "help" that both Shodai and Mitakeumi needed was provided.
And so the Basho goes into it's final day with the possibility of a 3 way playoff. No one could have seen this coming, (except maybe the match makers) as late as yesterday.
Finishing Move: Leg Pick (Ashitori)
Time: 1.7 seconds
Mitakeumi (Age 27, 5'11",386 lbs) (S1w) (11-3) DEFEATED Kotoeko (Age 28, 5'10", 287 lbs) (M16w) (9-5). With Shodai's upset, Mitakeumi suddenly had new life with respect to Yusho contention, but he would have to win this match, and, like Shodai, get help in the next one. Kotoeko, though a low ranked Magaeshira, was the Rikishi with the best record (save one) that Mitakeumi hadn't already fought. 8 wins in 10 matches, before a loss to Tamawashi (M9e) earned Kotoeko a Kachi-koshi and a chance at a 10 win Basho. Tamawashi wasn't involved in this match because he was held back for a possible match with Yusho ramifications on Day 15, should all of the possibilities on Day 14 pan out.
And what a match this turned out to be. Kotoeko had the advantage throughout most of it, forcing Mitakeumi to save himself at the bales 4 times before he was finally able to turn the tables and throw the rank and filer out. Mitakeumi, great at the start (6+1(Forfeit]-0), wobbly in the middle (1-3) and strong at the end (3-0) has forced himself back in contention. Key to his revival was a stretch of 3 consecutive matches against both Ozeki and Yokozuna Hakuho. He dealt Asanoyma (O1w) his first loss, and Hakuho (Y1e) his second. His miracle win at the last possible second over Hakuho caused an injury that put the Grand Champion out of the tournament. Now he can only wait and hope.
Finishing move: Beltless Arm Throw (Sukuinage)
Time: 11.0 seconds
Terunofuji (Age 28, 6'4", 397 lbs) (M17e) (12-2) LOST to Shodai (Age 28, 6'0", 364 lbs) (S1e) (11-3). After his great win over Asanoyama (O1w) yesterday, a win today would guarantee Terunofuji no worse than a playoff. But he ran into Shodai, whose 6 match winning streak (and 7 of his last 9) had propelled him to the edge of contention. And he turned the Basho (which at first seemed to be won by Hakuho [Y1e--withdrew due to injury], then by Asanoyama [who, at 11-1 looked like a lock for Yusho], then by Terunofuji [who beat Asanoyama] on its head with a crucial victory that put 4 Rikishi into the Yusho picture for the last day of the Basho.
Shodai fought a very intelligent match, first blocking Terunofuji's attempt at a left underarm grip, and then pulling the ex-Ozeki who finally made it back to Makuuchi (Top Tier) after ages in sumo purgatory (see below all through the Basho for his amazing story) to get him off balance. Finally he used that moment of advantage to force Terunofuji out. The win put Shodai in with a chance, but he needed help...in the last match of the day.
Finishing move: Frontal Force Out (Yorikiri)
Time: 6.4 seconds
2. Onasho's Winless Streak Finally Comes to an End.
Onosho (Age 24, 5'10", 342 lbs) (M2w) (1-13) defeated Ikioi (Age 33, 6'4", 377 lbs) (M9w) (2-12). Onosho, who showed just what can happen to a successful Maegashira (see Developments of Interest Day 9 for his story) who gets promoted past his abilities (for the moment at any rate), faced off in a match of the futile against Ikioi, the one time Sekiwake who was done in by a 9 match losing streak, second only to Onosho's 13. When Onosho won, the ovation (fans were asked not to yell and cheer due to the Covid Pandemic and obeyed that request throughout the Basho) was as intense as one for a Yusho winning match. Everyone in the building, with the possible exception of his opponent, was thrilled with the win.
Finishing move: Frontal Push Out (Oshidashi)
Time: 3.5 seconds
3. The Rookies:
Kotoshoho (Age 20, 6'3", 364 lbs) (M15e) (8-6) lost to Myogiryu (Age 33, 6'2", 335 lbs) (M10w) (10-4). For the 2nd day in a row, crafty veteran Myogiryu used a rookie's aggression against him (see Day 13 Developments of Interest below). This time it was Kotoshoho, who charged a bit too zealously at the Tachiai, eventually losing his balance. Myogiryu simply spun out of the way and tapped him on the behind as he was moving out of the Dohyo (ring). It was Myogiryu's 3rd consecutive win, guaranteeing a 10 win Basho. He began the Basho winning his first 5 in a row.
Finishing move: Slap Down (Hatakikomi)
Time: 3.3 seconds.
Wakatakakage (Age 25, 6'0", 273 lbs) (M14w) (9-5) defeated
Tamawashi (Age 35, 6'2", 373 lbs) (M9e) (9-5). Wakatakakage won his 6th match in his last 7 to keep his hopes for a 10 win Basho alive. At the same time he prevented Tamawashi from a 10 win Basho of his own. Tamawashi looked to push and thrust Wakatakakage out, dominating the early part of the match. Wakatakakage saved himself at the bales and used that leverage to turn and push Tamawashi out. It was very intelligent sumo by a very young Rikishi who quickly learned a lesson from his defeat yesterday (see Day 13 Developments of Interest below). Both men have had excellent tournaments.
Finishing move: Frontal Push Out (Oshidashi)
Time: 6.3 seconds.
Kotonowaka (Age 22, 6'2" ,373 lbs) (M13w) (4-4+1(Forfeit) 5 (missed due to injury) lost to Kagayaki (Age 26, 6'4" ,359 lbs) (M4e) (5-9). After missing 5 days because of a sore knee, Kotonowaka returned to action, hoping to salvage a winning record (but not a Kachi-koshi). It didn't turn out that way, as Kagayaki won a long attritional match that he had to save with a foot on the bale before finally forcing the rookie out. It looked like Kotonowaka did no favors for his sore knee in this match. Kagayaki reached Makuuchi (Top Tier) rank in January of 2016, dropped back to Juryo (2nd Tier) for two Basho, and has been a Maegashira in every (24) Basho since. He has been as high as M4 (which he was in this Basho) and as low as M14 in that time. His Basho has been punctuated by three 3 match losing streaks, the last 2 against exclusively San'yaku (Top Rank) opponents (O,Y,S...O,K,S). He won't have to run that gauntlet in the next Basho.
Finishing move: Frontal Force Out (Yorikiri)
Time: 28.6 seconds.
There were no Juryo substitutes today.
+++
San'yaku: Yokozuna Make-koshi results in retirement--Yokozuna cannot be demoted; Ozeki have special rules for demotion; Sekiwake and Komusubi will be demoted)
Day 8: Yutakayama (M1w) 4-10; Onosho (M2w) 1-13
Day 9: None
Day 10: Ikioi (M10w) 2-12; Shimanoumi (M11e) 5-9; Shohozan (M12w) 3+1[Forfeit)-10
Day 11: Abi (M5e) 3-2+1(forfeit)+8 (pulled out of the Tournament by his Stable master after violating JSA Covid 19 social distancing rules); Chiyomaru (M15w) 4-10
Day 12: Takaraufuji (M3e) 5-9; Kiribayama (M3w) 5-9; Kagayaki (M4e) 5-9; Ishiura (M8e) 4-10
Day 13: Aioyama (M4w) 5-9; Enho (M6e) 5-9; Chiyotairyu (M8w) 5-9; Kaisei (M10e) 5-9
Day 14: Ryuden (M6w) 6-8; Nishikigi (M16w) 6-8; Kotoyuki 6-7+1(Forfeit)
==========
Results:
Day 14 Results (Sumo Reference) (ADDED JULY 31)
Basho Cumulative Win-Loss Martrix (Sumo Reference) (ADDED AUGUST 1)
Day 14: August 1: Japanese Sumo Association (click on rikishi name for relevant
data including percentage of each Kimarite (finishing) move used, rank and full results of last 5 tournaments, all on one page) (ADDED AUGUST 1)
Daily Cumulative Results (Japan Times) (UPDATED AUGUST 1)
Day 14 Time of Each Match: (nikkansports.com) (in Japanese, use Google Translate) Matches are in order from lowest rank to highest. Check against Sumo Reference above, which has matches in order from high to low. (ADDED AUGUST 1)
Japan Sumo Association Absence Report (ADDED JULY 30)
==========
Top Rank (ALL ADDED AUGUST 1)
Asanoyama (O1w) 11-3; Hakuho (Y1e) 10-2+1 (Forfeit) (Withdrew from Basho due to injury)
Shodai (S1e) 11-3; Mitakeumi (S1w) 11-3
Takakeisho (O1e) 8-3-1(Forfeit) (Withdrew from Basho due to injury)
Daieisho (K1e) 9+1[Forfeit)-4
Okinoumi (K1w) 9-5
Others with 2 losses:
Terunofuji (M17e) 12-2
Rookies:
Wakatakakage (M14w) 9-5
Kotoshoho (M16e) 8-6
Kotonowaka (M13w) 4-4+1(forfeit) (out with a knee injury) (returned on
Articles:
Articles:
Japan Times Day 14 Tournament Report (ADDED AUGUST 1)
"I was thinking of how my opponent would start the bout since
last night, and I thought I only have one shot at winning... "So he (Terunofuji) still has the sole lead. I want him to win tomorrow."
Terutsuyoshi (Japan Times)
The 4 articles below are all from Nikkansports.com All are in Japanese (Use Google Translate) (ALL ADDED AUGUST 1)
Terutsuyoshi decides the turbulent production "Consult with an attendant from the night" strategy (Nikkansports.com) (in Japanese, Use Google Translate)
"I decided after consulting with my attendant Nishiki Fuji from last night." Immediately after [the start], I dived and took Asanoyama's left foot, and I fell down all at once without rest."
Terutsuyoshi (Nikkansports.com) Loose English translation from Google English Translation)
"Well from Yesterday I've been thinking about what I needed to do and that maneuver just came into my head, so I did it and...it was successful. I'm pretty happy." When the interviewer said he supported Terunofuji with the win: "Yes, he's now the sole leader. I hope he'll win the match tomorrow and become the Tournament Champion."
Terutsuyoshi (NHK post match interview).
"Asanoyama 3 defeats "It's too heavy to carry on your own" (Nikkansports.com) (in Japanese, Use Google Translate)
"I was wary of my mind, but I think my concentration was distracting. I had to win the championship or win (as the highest numbered player). I was distracted and couldn't concentrate, and I think Shin-Ozeki is a heavy burden to carry on his own."
Asanoyama (Nikkansports.com) Loose English translation from Google English Translation)
Shodai defeats Terunofuji, hopes for the first V with risk preparedness (Nikkansports.com) (in Japanese, Use Google Translate)
"(Winning) gets harder even if you're aware of it. Just put it in one corner of your head."
Shodai (Nikkansports.com) Loose English translation from Google English Translation)
Mitakeumi's invincible smile to win the victory "I want to laugh at the end" (Nikkansports.com) (in Japanese, Use Google Translate)
"I was calm at the edge of the ring. I was able to concentrate on my own sumo,"
Mitakeumi
"I'll take my sumo wrestling" toward my third [Makuuchi] win."I want to laugh at the end"
Mitakeumi (Nikkansports.com) Loose English translation from Google English Translation)
"I decided after consulting with my attendant Nishiki Fuji from last night." Immediately after [the start], I dived and took Asanoyama's left foot, and I fell down all at once without rest."
Terutsuyoshi (Nikkansports.com) Loose English translation from Google English Translation)
"Well from Yesterday I've been thinking about what I needed to do and that maneuver just came into my head, so I did it and...it was successful. I'm pretty happy." When the interviewer said he supported Terunofuji with the win: "Yes, he's now the sole leader. I hope he'll win the match tomorrow and become the Tournament Champion."
Terutsuyoshi (NHK post match interview).
"Asanoyama 3 defeats "It's too heavy to carry on your own" (Nikkansports.com) (in Japanese, Use Google Translate)
"I was wary of my mind, but I think my concentration was distracting. I had to win the championship or win (as the highest numbered player). I was distracted and couldn't concentrate, and I think Shin-Ozeki is a heavy burden to carry on his own."
Asanoyama (Nikkansports.com) Loose English translation from Google English Translation)
Shodai defeats Terunofuji, hopes for the first V with risk preparedness (Nikkansports.com) (in Japanese, Use Google Translate)
"(Winning) gets harder even if you're aware of it. Just put it in one corner of your head."
Shodai (Nikkansports.com) Loose English translation from Google English Translation)
Mitakeumi's invincible smile to win the victory "I want to laugh at the end" (Nikkansports.com) (in Japanese, Use Google Translate)
"I was calm at the edge of the ring. I was able to concentrate on my own sumo,"
Mitakeumi
"I'll take my sumo wrestling" toward my third [Makuuchi] win."I want to laugh at the end"
Mitakeumi (Nikkansports.com) Loose English translation from Google English Translation)
Photos:
Asanoyama, wonder how to take a footstep / Day 14 photo feature (Nikkansports.com) (in Japanese, Use Google Translate)
Today's feature begins with a photo of the scoreboard. It then has two photos from another Bashow. Photos from contains photos from 12 of today's matches, in order, from lowest to highiest, as can be seen in the Sumo Reference Day 11 Results above. Note that the last match in the photo essay is a stop action replay of Terutsyoshi's upset victory over Asanoyama.
Videos:
Day 14 video highlights (short highlights of all 21 matches, less than 30 minutes) (ADDED AUGUST 2)
Developments of Interest: (All finishing moves will be linked to demonstration videos. Source for all match times is Nikkansports.com (Day 14) (Japanese, use Google Translate, but you can see the times. Bouts are from lowest to highest rank).(ADDED AUGUST 3)
1. Key matches of the Day
Asanoyama (Age 26, 6'2", 379 lbs) (O1w) (11-3) LOST to Terutsuyoshi (Age 25, 5'7" , 265 lbs (M7e) (8-6). Terutsuyoshi is known for the prodigious amount of salt he throws (see Developments of Interest, Day 12 below) but he is also a very intelligent Rikishi. What he did in this match was seen by some as "not cricket" (beyond the realm of what a true Rikishi should do to win a match). Others saw it as a brilliant move that completely befuddled the new Ozeki who many felt was about to begin the Yokozuna coronation process by winning his first Ozeki Basho, something only 8 other Rikishi had ever done. Terutsuyoshi has had a solid Basho, and he saw today as his chance to earn his own Kachi-koshi (winning record), as well as help his stablemate Terunofuji. He had telegraphed what he might do on Day 12, by using a rarely used finishing move to beat the rookie Kotoshoho (M15e), depriving him of a Kachi-koshi at the time.
Being outweighed by 114 pounds, and shorter by 7 inches than his San'yaku (Top Rank) opponent, Terutsuyoshi wanted nothing to do with any contests of strength. So he feinted up at Asanoyma at the Tachiai (Initial charge) and then turned, went down, and threw down the Ozeki with a brilliant leg pick. It was all over in a heartbeat. And the "help" that both Shodai and Mitakeumi needed was provided.
And so the Basho goes into it's final day with the possibility of a 3 way playoff. No one could have seen this coming, (except maybe the match makers) as late as yesterday.
Finishing Move: Leg Pick (Ashitori)
Time: 1.7 seconds
Mitakeumi (Age 27, 5'11",386 lbs) (S1w) (11-3) DEFEATED Kotoeko (Age 28, 5'10", 287 lbs) (M16w) (9-5). With Shodai's upset, Mitakeumi suddenly had new life with respect to Yusho contention, but he would have to win this match, and, like Shodai, get help in the next one. Kotoeko, though a low ranked Magaeshira, was the Rikishi with the best record (save one) that Mitakeumi hadn't already fought. 8 wins in 10 matches, before a loss to Tamawashi (M9e) earned Kotoeko a Kachi-koshi and a chance at a 10 win Basho. Tamawashi wasn't involved in this match because he was held back for a possible match with Yusho ramifications on Day 15, should all of the possibilities on Day 14 pan out.
And what a match this turned out to be. Kotoeko had the advantage throughout most of it, forcing Mitakeumi to save himself at the bales 4 times before he was finally able to turn the tables and throw the rank and filer out. Mitakeumi, great at the start (6+1(Forfeit]-0), wobbly in the middle (1-3) and strong at the end (3-0) has forced himself back in contention. Key to his revival was a stretch of 3 consecutive matches against both Ozeki and Yokozuna Hakuho. He dealt Asanoyma (O1w) his first loss, and Hakuho (Y1e) his second. His miracle win at the last possible second over Hakuho caused an injury that put the Grand Champion out of the tournament. Now he can only wait and hope.
Finishing move: Beltless Arm Throw (Sukuinage)
Time: 11.0 seconds
Terunofuji (Age 28, 6'4", 397 lbs) (M17e) (12-2) LOST to Shodai (Age 28, 6'0", 364 lbs) (S1e) (11-3). After his great win over Asanoyama (O1w) yesterday, a win today would guarantee Terunofuji no worse than a playoff. But he ran into Shodai, whose 6 match winning streak (and 7 of his last 9) had propelled him to the edge of contention. And he turned the Basho (which at first seemed to be won by Hakuho [Y1e--withdrew due to injury], then by Asanoyama [who, at 11-1 looked like a lock for Yusho], then by Terunofuji [who beat Asanoyama] on its head with a crucial victory that put 4 Rikishi into the Yusho picture for the last day of the Basho.
Shodai fought a very intelligent match, first blocking Terunofuji's attempt at a left underarm grip, and then pulling the ex-Ozeki who finally made it back to Makuuchi (Top Tier) after ages in sumo purgatory (see below all through the Basho for his amazing story) to get him off balance. Finally he used that moment of advantage to force Terunofuji out. The win put Shodai in with a chance, but he needed help...in the last match of the day.
Finishing move: Frontal Force Out (Yorikiri)
Time: 6.4 seconds
2. Onasho's Winless Streak Finally Comes to an End.
Onosho (Age 24, 5'10", 342 lbs) (M2w) (1-13) defeated Ikioi (Age 33, 6'4", 377 lbs) (M9w) (2-12). Onosho, who showed just what can happen to a successful Maegashira (see Developments of Interest Day 9 for his story) who gets promoted past his abilities (for the moment at any rate), faced off in a match of the futile against Ikioi, the one time Sekiwake who was done in by a 9 match losing streak, second only to Onosho's 13. When Onosho won, the ovation (fans were asked not to yell and cheer due to the Covid Pandemic and obeyed that request throughout the Basho) was as intense as one for a Yusho winning match. Everyone in the building, with the possible exception of his opponent, was thrilled with the win.
Finishing move: Frontal Push Out (Oshidashi)
Time: 3.5 seconds
3. The Rookies:
Kotoshoho (Age 20, 6'3", 364 lbs) (M15e) (8-6) lost to Myogiryu (Age 33, 6'2", 335 lbs) (M10w) (10-4). For the 2nd day in a row, crafty veteran Myogiryu used a rookie's aggression against him (see Day 13 Developments of Interest below). This time it was Kotoshoho, who charged a bit too zealously at the Tachiai, eventually losing his balance. Myogiryu simply spun out of the way and tapped him on the behind as he was moving out of the Dohyo (ring). It was Myogiryu's 3rd consecutive win, guaranteeing a 10 win Basho. He began the Basho winning his first 5 in a row.
Finishing move: Slap Down (Hatakikomi)
Time: 3.3 seconds.
Wakatakakage (Age 25, 6'0", 273 lbs) (M14w) (9-5) defeated
Tamawashi (Age 35, 6'2", 373 lbs) (M9e) (9-5). Wakatakakage won his 6th match in his last 7 to keep his hopes for a 10 win Basho alive. At the same time he prevented Tamawashi from a 10 win Basho of his own. Tamawashi looked to push and thrust Wakatakakage out, dominating the early part of the match. Wakatakakage saved himself at the bales and used that leverage to turn and push Tamawashi out. It was very intelligent sumo by a very young Rikishi who quickly learned a lesson from his defeat yesterday (see Day 13 Developments of Interest below). Both men have had excellent tournaments.
Finishing move: Frontal Push Out (Oshidashi)
Time: 6.3 seconds.
Kotonowaka (Age 22, 6'2" ,373 lbs) (M13w) (4-4+1(Forfeit) 5 (missed due to injury) lost to Kagayaki (Age 26, 6'4" ,359 lbs) (M4e) (5-9). After missing 5 days because of a sore knee, Kotonowaka returned to action, hoping to salvage a winning record (but not a Kachi-koshi). It didn't turn out that way, as Kagayaki won a long attritional match that he had to save with a foot on the bale before finally forcing the rookie out. It looked like Kotonowaka did no favors for his sore knee in this match. Kagayaki reached Makuuchi (Top Tier) rank in January of 2016, dropped back to Juryo (2nd Tier) for two Basho, and has been a Maegashira in every (24) Basho since. He has been as high as M4 (which he was in this Basho) and as low as M14 in that time. His Basho has been punctuated by three 3 match losing streaks, the last 2 against exclusively San'yaku (Top Rank) opponents (O,Y,S...O,K,S). He won't have to run that gauntlet in the next Basho.
Finishing move: Frontal Force Out (Yorikiri)
Time: 28.6 seconds.
There were no Juryo substitutes today.
+++
Day 13:
Day 13 Results (Sumo Reference) (ADDED JULY 31)
Key Result:
Terunofuji (M17e) (12-1) defeated Asanoyama (O1w) (11-2)
Finishing move: Frontal Force Out (Yorikiri)
Time: 10.6 seconds
Mitakeumi (S1w) (9-3) defeated Kagayaki (M4e) (4-9)
Finishing move: Hand Pull Down (Hikiotashi)
Time: 2.2 seconds
Key Match of the Day:
Asanoyama (Age 26, 6'2", 379 lbs) (O1w) 11-1 v
Terunofuji (Age 28, 6'4", 397 lbs)(M17e) 11-1
With Hakuho withdrawing from the Basho due to a knee injury, the Basho could be decided by this match. While there are permutations where a 3 match loser could force a playoff or even win outright, that is unlikely. However, the trajectory of this Basho has already been "unlikely", to say the least.
==========
All Kachi-koshi and Make-koshi information (ADDED JULY 31)
Kachi-koshi: (8 wins, a winning Tournament, Ms will be promoted, San'yaku--O, S, K have different rules for promotion)
Day 8: Hakuho (Y1e) 10-2-1(Forfeit); Asanoyama (O1w) 11-2
Day 9: Shodai (S1e) 10-3; Terunofuji (M17e) 12-1
Day 10: Mitakeumi (S1w) 10-3
Day 11: Takakeisho (O1e) 8-3+1(forfeit)--Withdrew; Tamawashi (M9e) 9-4; Kotoshogiku (M14e) 8-5; Kotoeko (M16w) 9-4
Day 12: Daieisho (K1e) 8-1(forfeit)-4; Myogiryu (M10w) 9-4; Wakatakakage (M14w) 8-5
Day 13: Okinoumi (K1w) 8-5; Hokutofuji (M5w) 8-5; Tochinosin (M11w) 8-5; Takayasu (M13e) (8-5); Kotoshoho (M15e) 8-5
Make-Koshi (8 losses--losing Tournament, Ms will be demoted
San'yaku: Yokozuna Make-koshi results in retirement--Yokozuna cannot be demoted; Ozeki have special rules for demotion; Sekiwake and Komusubi will be demoted)
Day 8: Yutakayama (M1w) 3-10; Onosho (M2w) 0-13
Day 9: None
Day 10: Ikioi (M10w) 2-11; Shimanoumi (M11e) 5-8; Shohozan (M12w) 3-10
Day 11: Abi(M5e) 3-2+1(forfeit)+7 (pulled out of the Tournament by his Stable master after violating JSA Covid 19 social distancing rules; Chiyomaru (M15w) 3-10
Day 12: Takaraufuji (M3e) 4-9; Kiribayama (M3w) 4-9; Kagayaki (M4e) 4-9; Ishiura (M8e) 4-9
Day 13: Aioyama (M4w) 5-8; Enho (M6e) 5-8; Chiyotairyu (M8w) 5-8; Kaisei (M10e) 5-8
Results:
Day 13 Results (Sumo Reference) (ADDED JULY 31)
Basho Cumulative Win-Loss Martrix (Sumo Reference) (ADDED JULY 31)
Day 13: July 30: Japanese Sumo Association (click on rikishi name for relevant
data including percentage of each Kimarite (finishing) move used, rank and full results of last 5 tournaments, all on one page) (ADDED JULY 31)
Daily Cumulative Results (Japan Times) (Updated JULY 31)
Day 13 Time of Each Match: (nikkansports.com) (in Japanese, use Google Translate) Matches are in order from lowest rank to highest. Check against Sumo Reference above, which has matches in order from high to low. (ADDED JULY 30)
Japan Sumo Association Absence Report (ADDED JULY 30)
Top Rank (ALL ADDED JULY 31)
Asanoyama (O1w) 11-2; Hakuho (Y1e) 10-2-1 (Forfeit) (Withdrew from Basho due to injury)
Shodai (S1e) 10-3; Mitakeumi (S1w) 10-3
Takakeisho (O1e) 8-3-1(Forfeit) (Withdrew from Basho due to injury)
Daieisho (K1e) 9-4
Okinoumi (K1w) 8-5
Others with 1 loss:
Terunofuji (M17e) 12-1
Others with 2 losses: none
Others with 3 losses: none
Rookies:
Wakatakakage (M14w) 8-5
Kotoshoho (M16e) 8-5
Kotonowaka (M13w) 4-3-1(forfeit) (out with a knee injury)
San'yaku: Yokozuna Make-koshi results in retirement--Yokozuna cannot be demoted; Ozeki have special rules for demotion; Sekiwake and Komusubi will be demoted)
Day 8: Yutakayama (M1w) 3-10; Onosho (M2w) 0-13
Day 9: None
Day 10: Ikioi (M10w) 2-11; Shimanoumi (M11e) 5-8; Shohozan (M12w) 3-10
Day 11: Abi(M5e) 3-2+1(forfeit)+7 (pulled out of the Tournament by his Stable master after violating JSA Covid 19 social distancing rules; Chiyomaru (M15w) 3-10
Day 12: Takaraufuji (M3e) 4-9; Kiribayama (M3w) 4-9; Kagayaki (M4e) 4-9; Ishiura (M8e) 4-9
Day 13: Aioyama (M4w) 5-8; Enho (M6e) 5-8; Chiyotairyu (M8w) 5-8; Kaisei (M10e) 5-8
Results:
Day 13 Results (Sumo Reference) (ADDED JULY 31)
Basho Cumulative Win-Loss Martrix (Sumo Reference) (ADDED JULY 31)
Day 13: July 30: Japanese Sumo Association (click on rikishi name for relevant
data including percentage of each Kimarite (finishing) move used, rank and full results of last 5 tournaments, all on one page) (ADDED JULY 31)
Daily Cumulative Results (Japan Times) (Updated JULY 31)
Day 13 Time of Each Match: (nikkansports.com) (in Japanese, use Google Translate) Matches are in order from lowest rank to highest. Check against Sumo Reference above, which has matches in order from high to low. (ADDED JULY 30)
Japan Sumo Association Absence Report (ADDED JULY 30)
Top Rank (ALL ADDED JULY 31)
Asanoyama (O1w) 11-2; Hakuho (Y1e) 10-2-1 (Forfeit) (Withdrew from Basho due to injury)
Shodai (S1e) 10-3; Mitakeumi (S1w) 10-3
Takakeisho (O1e) 8-3-1(Forfeit) (Withdrew from Basho due to injury)
Daieisho (K1e) 9-4
Okinoumi (K1w) 8-5
Others with 1 loss:
Terunofuji (M17e) 12-1
Others with 2 losses: none
Others with 3 losses: none
Rookies:
Wakatakakage (M14w) 8-5
Kotoshoho (M16e) 8-5
Kotonowaka (M13w) 4-3-1(forfeit) (out with a knee injury)
Hakuho is closed The boss reveals the right knee injury in the place on the eve (Nikkansports.com (in Japanese--Use Google Translate) (ADDED JULY 30)
Hakuho withdraws from July tourney, both yokozuna out (Kyodo News) (ADDED JULY 31)
Japan Times Day 13 Tournament Report (ADDED JULY 31)
The 4 articles below are all from Nikkansports.com All are in Japanese (Use Google Translate) (ALL ADDED JULY 31)
Terunofuji defeats Asanoyama and is the only top "just do my best"
Chairman Yakaku "I feel that Terunofuji is 'I am Ozeki'"
Terunofuji defeats Asanoyama, the four right-hand wheels polished by the practice monopoly
Asanoyama V fight one step backward shock, refusing to interview for the first time at this place
Photos:
Terunofuji defeats Asanoyama to become the first leader/Day 13 photo feature (Nikkansports.com) (in Japanese--Use Google Translate)
Today's feature contains photos from 11 of today's matches, in order, from highest to lowest, as can be seen in the Sumo Reference Day 11 Results above. The final photo shows "a sticker flag calling for measures against the new coronavirus infection, which was issued by the Tokyo Metropolitan Government at the July sumo wrestling place being held, was put up from this day around the ring". Note that the first set of photos is pretty much a stop action replay of the Terunofuji v Asanoyama match. (ADDED AUGUST 1)
Videos:
Day 13 video highlights (short highlights of all 21 matches, less than 30 minutes) (ADDED AUGUST 1)
Day 12:Chairman Yakaku "I feel that Terunofuji is 'I am Ozeki'"
Terunofuji defeats Asanoyama, the four right-hand wheels polished by the practice monopoly
Asanoyama V fight one step backward shock, refusing to interview for the first time at this place
Photos:
Terunofuji defeats Asanoyama to become the first leader/Day 13 photo feature (Nikkansports.com) (in Japanese--Use Google Translate)
Today's feature contains photos from 11 of today's matches, in order, from highest to lowest, as can be seen in the Sumo Reference Day 11 Results above. The final photo shows "a sticker flag calling for measures against the new coronavirus infection, which was issued by the Tokyo Metropolitan Government at the July sumo wrestling place being held, was put up from this day around the ring". Note that the first set of photos is pretty much a stop action replay of the Terunofuji v Asanoyama match. (ADDED AUGUST 1)
Day 13 video highlights (short highlights of all 21 matches, less than 30 minutes) (ADDED AUGUST 1)
Developments of Interest: (All finishing moves will be linked to demonstration videos. Source for all match times is Nikkansports.com (Day 13) (Japanese, use Google Translate, but you can see the times. Bouts are from lowest to highest rank). (ALL ADDED AUGUST 1)
1. Key matches of the Day
Terunofuji (Age 28, 6'4", 397 lbs) (M17e) (12-1) DEFEATED
Asanoyama (Age 26, 6'2", 379 lbs) (O1w) (11-2). This was the match of the day and the match of the Basho. A match of a Shun-Ozeki (Ozeki in his 1st match) against an ex-Ozeki who fought his way back to Makuuchi (Top Tier) from Jonidan (5th Tier). Terunofuji had run roughshod over his low M opposition, not having faced anyone higher than M11 (including one Juryo substitute). But now rank goes out the window in a Basho and the best face the best. Asanoyama was having a terrific Basho, his perfect record blemished by only one loss (to Mitakeumi [S1w]). He had opened with a 9 match winning streak. Terunofuji brought a 7 match winning streak (3rd longest in the Basho behind Hakuho's 10 and Asanoyama) into this match.
In a fantastic 10.6 second match,Terunofuji survived an attempted throw at the bales and came back to force Asanoyama out, and put himself in the driver's seat. He now controls is own fate. If he can beat Shodai (S1e) tomorrow, and whoever his opponent is on Day 15, he will earn Yusho (Championship) in his first match since returning to Makuuche (Top Tier).
"Well, I still have two more days to go. I'll do my best. I got an overarm grip first and and attacked, which was good. I'm glad all my hard work has paid off."
Terunofuji, in the post match NHK interview.
"I tried to get the first belt hold and came out to be the attacker from the start. I think that was the key."
"I've been doing my best. I came in here confident because of the work I've put in."
Terunofuji (both quotes from the Japan Times).
Finishing move: Frontal Force Out (Yorikiri)
Time: 10.6 seconds.
Mitakeumi (Age 27, 5'11",386 lbs) (S1w) (10-3) DEFEATED Kagayaki (Age 26, 6'4" ,359 lbs) (M4e) (4-9). Three days ago Mitakeumi figured to be out of contention, but with a good performance and Kachi-koshi (Winning Tournament) next to his name, meaning he would retain his Sekiwake standing. But then he beat Asanoyama (O1w) and Hakuko (Y1e) on Day 10 and 12. With a win today he is on the fringe of contention, though he must win out and get help. Suddenly his good Basho could turn into something special. He wasn't going to let Kagayaki get in his way and won the match decisively.
Finishing move: Hand Pull Down (Hikiotashi)
Time: 2.2 seconds.
2. The end of the Yokozuna in this Basho. Hakuho forfeits his match to Shodai.
Yokozuna Grand Master Hakuho (Y1e), who has withdrawn from the Basho due to a knee injury, lost this match on a "fusen" (Forfeit). He finishes the Basho at 10-2+1(Forfeit) +2 (withdrawal) Shodai (S1e) is now 10-3.
The announcement of Hakuho's withdrawal can be found in this
This marks the 2nd time in the last 3 Basho that neither of the Yokozuna made it to the end. Kakuryu (O1w) aggravated and elbow injury on Day 1 and finished 0-1+1(Forfeit)+12 (withdrawal). This was the only scheduled all San'yaku match today.
3. The other Ozeki
Takakeisho (Age 23, 5'9", 373 lbs) (O1e) (8-3+1[Forfeit]) withdrew from the Basho with a damaged left knee ligament. He finishes with Kachi-koshi and so retains his Ozeki standing. His final record will be 8-3+1(Forfeit)+3 (withdrawal).
4. Okinoumi earns his first San'yaku Kachi-koshi
Okinoumi (Age 34, 6'2", 353 lbs) (K1w) (8-5) defeated Enho (Age 25, 5'7" , 212 lbs) (M6e) (5-8). In the first half of the Basho Okinoumi lost to the Grand Champion on Opening Day, and then to 4 more San'yaku (Top Rank). At the midpoint he was 4-4. He then lost on Day 9 to Asanoyma (O1w). But with his San'yaku matches behind him, he began to roll against Maegashira. This was his 4th win in a row and earned him his first San'yaku Kachi-koshi. He did it beating only one San'yaku (Takakeisho [O1e]). After 4 Komusubi and 2 Sekiwake attempts, Okinoumi, a 15 year veteran, will finally, and deservedly remain Komusubi for the next Basho.
Enho, unfortunately, is going in the other direction, as he was consigned to Make-koshi (losing Tournament) , his 2nd consecutive Make-koshi. In this Basho he was overpowered several times. He showed flashes, but not enough. Interestingly, he was able to defeat two of the biggest Rikishi in the Basho, Tokoshoryu (M7w) and Aioyama (M4w), both over 400 pounds.
Finishing move: Frontal Push Down (Oshitaoshi)
Time: 7.4 seconds.
5. The Rookies
Wakatakakage (Age 25, 6'0", 273 lbs) (M14w) (8-5) lost to Myogiryu (Age 33, 6'2", 335 lbs) (M10w) (9-4). Myogiryu has a chance to end the Basho on a high note, with a 4 match winning streak to match his opening 5 match streak. He stumbled a bit in mid Basho, but has done very well. 10 wins is a great incentive, as it could move him well up the ladder. Wakatakakage, who has also had an excellent Basho, earning his first Kachi-Koshi in his 2nd Makuuchi Basho, had a 5 match winning streak come to an end, but he too can still have a 10 win Basho. Wakatakakage gained an advantage at the Tachiai (initial charge) by slipping around Myogiryu and tried to push him, but Myogiryu stopped him and found the moment when Wakatakakage was slightly off balance to slap him down.
Finishing move: Slap Down (Hatakikomi)
Time: 5.2 seconds
Kotoshoho (Age 20, 6'3", 364 lbs) (M15e) (8-5) defeated Chiyotairyu (Age 31, 6'0",414 lbs (M8w) (5-8). On his 4th try, Kotoshoho earned his Kachi-Koshi in his 1st Makuuche Basho. After beginning his career with a 5 match winning streak, Kotoshoho lost 5 of his next 7. Today he was helped along by his opponent, who charged so hard at the Tachiai that he lost his balance. Chiotairyu, who 4 days ago was 5-4 and looking for his own Kachi-koshi, fell into a slump at exactly the wrong time. His 4th consecutive loss consigned him to a Make-Koshi. How far he falls will depend on whether he can stop his slump in the next two matches. He has lost 6 of his last 8.
Finishing move: Slap Down (Hatakikomi)
Time: 1.9 seconds.
"My sumo today wasn't good but I'm glad that I won. I tried not to think about [the past three days] and instead focus on each bout. For the remaining two days I'll maintain my concentration on the bout each day."
Kotoshoko, in the NHK interview after the match).
"The past three days, I discovered so many things I need to fix. I have to remind myself to focus only on the match ahead of me and not think too far ahead. "First and foremost, I want to focus on the initial charge. Today, my body reacted well and that made the difference."
Kotoshoho (Japan Times)
Kotonowaka (Age 22, 6'2" ,373 lbs) (M13w) (4-2-1 (forfeit)-6 absent, remained sidelined with the knee injury he suffered on Day 7. Whether he will return in this Basho is not known at this time.
There were no Juryo substitutes in today's matches.
+++
1. Key matches of the Day
Terunofuji (Age 28, 6'4", 397 lbs) (M17e) (12-1) DEFEATED
Asanoyama (Age 26, 6'2", 379 lbs) (O1w) (11-2). This was the match of the day and the match of the Basho. A match of a Shun-Ozeki (Ozeki in his 1st match) against an ex-Ozeki who fought his way back to Makuuchi (Top Tier) from Jonidan (5th Tier). Terunofuji had run roughshod over his low M opposition, not having faced anyone higher than M11 (including one Juryo substitute). But now rank goes out the window in a Basho and the best face the best. Asanoyama was having a terrific Basho, his perfect record blemished by only one loss (to Mitakeumi [S1w]). He had opened with a 9 match winning streak. Terunofuji brought a 7 match winning streak (3rd longest in the Basho behind Hakuho's 10 and Asanoyama) into this match.
In a fantastic 10.6 second match,Terunofuji survived an attempted throw at the bales and came back to force Asanoyama out, and put himself in the driver's seat. He now controls is own fate. If he can beat Shodai (S1e) tomorrow, and whoever his opponent is on Day 15, he will earn Yusho (Championship) in his first match since returning to Makuuche (Top Tier).
"Well, I still have two more days to go. I'll do my best. I got an overarm grip first and and attacked, which was good. I'm glad all my hard work has paid off."
Terunofuji, in the post match NHK interview.
"I tried to get the first belt hold and came out to be the attacker from the start. I think that was the key."
"I've been doing my best. I came in here confident because of the work I've put in."
Terunofuji (both quotes from the Japan Times).
Finishing move: Frontal Force Out (Yorikiri)
Time: 10.6 seconds.
Mitakeumi (Age 27, 5'11",386 lbs) (S1w) (10-3) DEFEATED Kagayaki (Age 26, 6'4" ,359 lbs) (M4e) (4-9). Three days ago Mitakeumi figured to be out of contention, but with a good performance and Kachi-koshi (Winning Tournament) next to his name, meaning he would retain his Sekiwake standing. But then he beat Asanoyama (O1w) and Hakuko (Y1e) on Day 10 and 12. With a win today he is on the fringe of contention, though he must win out and get help. Suddenly his good Basho could turn into something special. He wasn't going to let Kagayaki get in his way and won the match decisively.
Finishing move: Hand Pull Down (Hikiotashi)
Time: 2.2 seconds.
2. The end of the Yokozuna in this Basho. Hakuho forfeits his match to Shodai.
Yokozuna Grand Master Hakuho (Y1e), who has withdrawn from the Basho due to a knee injury, lost this match on a "fusen" (Forfeit). He finishes the Basho at 10-2+1(Forfeit) +2 (withdrawal) Shodai (S1e) is now 10-3.
The announcement of Hakuho's withdrawal can be found in this
This marks the 2nd time in the last 3 Basho that neither of the Yokozuna made it to the end. Kakuryu (O1w) aggravated and elbow injury on Day 1 and finished 0-1+1(Forfeit)+12 (withdrawal). This was the only scheduled all San'yaku match today.
3. The other Ozeki
Takakeisho (Age 23, 5'9", 373 lbs) (O1e) (8-3+1[Forfeit]) withdrew from the Basho with a damaged left knee ligament. He finishes with Kachi-koshi and so retains his Ozeki standing. His final record will be 8-3+1(Forfeit)+3 (withdrawal).
4. Okinoumi earns his first San'yaku Kachi-koshi
Okinoumi (Age 34, 6'2", 353 lbs) (K1w) (8-5) defeated Enho (Age 25, 5'7" , 212 lbs) (M6e) (5-8). In the first half of the Basho Okinoumi lost to the Grand Champion on Opening Day, and then to 4 more San'yaku (Top Rank). At the midpoint he was 4-4. He then lost on Day 9 to Asanoyma (O1w). But with his San'yaku matches behind him, he began to roll against Maegashira. This was his 4th win in a row and earned him his first San'yaku Kachi-koshi. He did it beating only one San'yaku (Takakeisho [O1e]). After 4 Komusubi and 2 Sekiwake attempts, Okinoumi, a 15 year veteran, will finally, and deservedly remain Komusubi for the next Basho.
Enho, unfortunately, is going in the other direction, as he was consigned to Make-koshi (losing Tournament) , his 2nd consecutive Make-koshi. In this Basho he was overpowered several times. He showed flashes, but not enough. Interestingly, he was able to defeat two of the biggest Rikishi in the Basho, Tokoshoryu (M7w) and Aioyama (M4w), both over 400 pounds.
Finishing move: Frontal Push Down (Oshitaoshi)
Time: 7.4 seconds.
5. The Rookies
Wakatakakage (Age 25, 6'0", 273 lbs) (M14w) (8-5) lost to Myogiryu (Age 33, 6'2", 335 lbs) (M10w) (9-4). Myogiryu has a chance to end the Basho on a high note, with a 4 match winning streak to match his opening 5 match streak. He stumbled a bit in mid Basho, but has done very well. 10 wins is a great incentive, as it could move him well up the ladder. Wakatakakage, who has also had an excellent Basho, earning his first Kachi-Koshi in his 2nd Makuuchi Basho, had a 5 match winning streak come to an end, but he too can still have a 10 win Basho. Wakatakakage gained an advantage at the Tachiai (initial charge) by slipping around Myogiryu and tried to push him, but Myogiryu stopped him and found the moment when Wakatakakage was slightly off balance to slap him down.
Finishing move: Slap Down (Hatakikomi)
Time: 5.2 seconds
Kotoshoho (Age 20, 6'3", 364 lbs) (M15e) (8-5) defeated Chiyotairyu (Age 31, 6'0",414 lbs (M8w) (5-8). On his 4th try, Kotoshoho earned his Kachi-Koshi in his 1st Makuuche Basho. After beginning his career with a 5 match winning streak, Kotoshoho lost 5 of his next 7. Today he was helped along by his opponent, who charged so hard at the Tachiai that he lost his balance. Chiotairyu, who 4 days ago was 5-4 and looking for his own Kachi-koshi, fell into a slump at exactly the wrong time. His 4th consecutive loss consigned him to a Make-Koshi. How far he falls will depend on whether he can stop his slump in the next two matches. He has lost 6 of his last 8.
Finishing move: Slap Down (Hatakikomi)
Time: 1.9 seconds.
"My sumo today wasn't good but I'm glad that I won. I tried not to think about [the past three days] and instead focus on each bout. For the remaining two days I'll maintain my concentration on the bout each day."
Kotoshoko, in the NHK interview after the match).
"The past three days, I discovered so many things I need to fix. I have to remind myself to focus only on the match ahead of me and not think too far ahead. "First and foremost, I want to focus on the initial charge. Today, my body reacted well and that made the difference."
Kotoshoho (Japan Times)
Kotonowaka (Age 22, 6'2" ,373 lbs) (M13w) (4-2-1 (forfeit)-6 absent, remained sidelined with the knee injury he suffered on Day 7. Whether he will return in this Basho is not known at this time.
There were no Juryo substitutes in today's matches.
+++
Key Results: (ADDED JULY 30)
Hakuho (Y1e) (10-2) lost to Mitakeumi (S1w) (9-3)
Finishing move: Thrust Down (Tsukiotoshi)
Time: 4.1 seconds
Asanoyama (O1w) (11-1) defeated Hokutofuji (M5w) (7-5)
Finishing move: Beltless Arm Throw (Sukuinage)
Time: 10.6 seconds
Terunofuji (M17e) (11-1) defeated Tamawashi (M9e) (8-4)
Finishing move: Frontal Force Out (Yorikiri)
Time: 17.8 seconds
Top Yusho Standings:
Asanoyama 11-1
Terunofuji 11-1
Hakuho 10-2
Key matchups:
Hakuho (Age 35, 6'4", 333 lbs) (Y1e) 10-1
v
Mitakeumi (Age 27, 5'11",386 lbs) (S1w) 8-3
Head to Head: Hakuho 11-3-[-1] forfeit
Asanoyama (Age 26, 6'2", 379 lbs) (O1w) 10-1
v
Hokutofuji (Age 28, 6'1", 346 lbs) (M5w) 7-4
Head to Head: Asanoyama 5-2
Terunofuji (Age 28, 6'4", 397 lbs)(M17e) 10-1
v
Tamawashi (Age 35, 6'2", 373 lbs) (M9e) 8-3
Head to Head; 5-5
==========
All Kachi-koshi and Make-koshi information (ADDED JULY 30)
Kachi-koshi: (8 wins, a winning Tournament, Ms will be promoted, San'yaku--O, S, K have different rules for promotion)
Day 8: Hakuho (Y1e) 10-2; Asanoyama (O1w) 11-1
Day 9: Shodai (S1e) 9-3; Terunofuji (M17e) 11-1
Day 10: Mitakeumi (S1w) 9-3
Day 11: Takakeisho (O1e) 8-3+1(Forfeit); Tamawashi (M9e) 8-4; Kotoshogiku (M14e) 8-4; Kotoeko (M16w) 9-3
Day 12 Day 12 Daieisho (K1e) 7+1(Forfeit)-4; Myogiryu (M10w) 8-4; Wakatakakage (M14w) 8-4
Make-Koshi (8 losses--losing Tournament, Ms will be demoted
San'yaku: Yokozuna Make-koshi results in retirement--Yokozuna cannot be demoted; Ozeki have special rules for demotion; Sekiwake and Komusubi will be demoted)
Day 8: Yutakayama (M1w) 2-10; Onosho (M2w) 0-12
Day 9: None
Day 10: Ikioi (M10w) 2-10; Shimanoumi (M11e) 4-8; Shohozan (M12w) 2-10
Day 11: Abi (M5e) 3-3( of which 1 by forfeit)+6 (pulled out of the Tournament by his Stable master after violating JSA Covid 19 social distancing rules); Chiyomaru (M15w) 3-9
Day 12: Takaraufuji (M3e) 4-8; Kiribayama (M3w) 4-8; Kagayaki (M4e) 4-8; Ishiura (M8e) 4-8
Results:
Day 12 Results (Sumo Reference) (ADDED JULY 30)
Basho Cumulative Win-Loss Martrix (Sumo Reference) (ADDED JULY 30)
Day 12: July 30: Japanese Sumo Association (click on rikishi name for relevant
data including percentage of each Kimarite (finishing) move used, rank and full results of last 5 tournaments, all on one page) (ADDED JULY 30)
Daily Cumulative Results (Japan Times) (Updated JULY 30)
Day 12 Time of Each Match: (nikkansports.com) (in Japanese, use Google Translate) Matches are in order from lowest rank to highest. Check against Sumo Reference above, which has matches in order from high to low. (ADDED JULY 30)
Top Rank (ALL ADDED JULY 30)
Asanoyama (O1w) 11-1Hakuho (Y1e) 10-2
Shodai (S1e) 9-3; Mitakeumi (S1w) 9-3
Takakeisho (O1e) 8-3-1(Forfeit)
Daieisho (K1e) 8-4
Okinoumi (K1w) 7-5
Others with 1 loss:
Terunofuji (M17e) 11-1
Others with 2 losses: none
Rookies:
Wakatakakage (M14w) 8-4
Kotoshoho (M16e) 7-5
Kotonowaka (M13w) 4-3-1(forfeit) (out with a knee injury)
Articles:
Asanoyama, Terunofuji share lead after Hakuho's 2nd loss (Kyodo News--same story as JT, with different photos (ADDED JULY30)
Mitakeumi defeats Hakuho, "I was abandoned" (Nikkansports.com, in Japanese--Use Google Translate) (ADDED JULY 30)
Asanoyama "Borrow a breast" Shin-Ozeki V Fortune-telling with Moto-Ozeki (Nikkansports.com, in Japanese--Use Google Translate) (ADDED JULY 30)
Indomitable Terunofuji 11 wins, from the second stage to the largest revival in history (Nikkansports.com, in Japanese--Use Google Translate) (ADDED JULY 30)
Terunofuji fiercely defeated and lost to Asanoyama battle "just do it" (Nikkansports.com, in Japanese--Use Google Translate) (ADDED JULY 30)
Ozeki Takakeisho out of July tourney after avoiding demotion (Kyodo News) (ADDED JULY 30)
Photos:
Mitakeumi wins reversal, Hakuho loses / 12th day photo feature
(Nikkansports.com) (in Japanese, Use Google Translate)
Today's feature contains photos from 11 of today's matches, in order, from highest to lowest, as can be seen in the Sumo Reference Day 11 Results above.
Videos:
Day 12 video highlights (short highlights of all 21 matches, less than 30 minutes)
NHK Day 12 Basho Roundup (about 3 minutes, contains full match videos of the 3 main matches)
Developments of Interest:(All finishing moves will be linked to demonstration videos. Source for all match times is Nikkansports.com (Day 12) (Japanese, use Google Translate, but you can see the times. Bouts are from lowest to highest rank).
Note: Source for Rikishi Dimensions: Japan Sumo Association Database. Heights are rounded to the nearest inch, weights to the nearest pound.
1. Key matches of the Day
Grand Champion Yokozuna Hakuho (Age 35, 6'4", 333 lbs) (Y1e--69th Yokozuna) (10-2) LOST TO Mitakeumi (Age 27, 5'11",386 lbs) (S1w) (9-3).
Mitakeumi won the upset of the Basho (Tournament), turning certain defeat into victory with a quick sidestep and thrust down just before he would have been forced out. The move happened in an eye blink and certainly surprised, and possibly hurt Hakuho, who took a long time to get back into the dohyo (ring). It also turned the Basho on its head. Hakuho, who has so dominated for the first 10 matches, is now looking up from 3rd place. He is not out yet, but now must win out in order to earn his 42nd Yokozuna Yusho (and 45th overall).
Mitakeumi has now beaten the Yokozuna and Ozeki, handing them their second and first losses respectively, in the last three days. After beginning the Basho with 7 consecutive wins (one a forfeit when Abi was removed for violating social distance), Mitakeumi stumbled, losing 3 of the next 4. But now he is finishing strong, a little too late for Yusho (Championship) contention. But even so, every win means something, as this is his 1st return to Sekiwake after 2 Basho as Maegashira. This is his 4th time as Sekiwake. This Basho will be a good start to an Ozeki run for him. He needs 33 wins in 3 Basho to get there. Each win counts, and the wins over two higher ranked Rikishi will be helpful to his chances. His last Ozeki run began with a 12-3 Yusho in the July 2018 Basho, but three Basho later he was Komusubi. He won another Sekiwake Yusho in September 2019, but was Maegashira two Basho later. It should be noted that both his Yusho were in Basho that both Yokozuna withdrew from due to injuries. However, he has shown that he can win big matches. His final two matches are against M4 and M16, so he could easily go into the final day with 11 wins. A good start for an Ozeki run.
"I’m happy. I was in trouble there, but I just made the move at the edge."
Mitakeumi, analyzing his victory (Japan Times)
Finishing move: Thrust Down (Tsukiotashi)
Time: 4.1 seconds.
Asanoyama (Age 26, 6'2", 379 lbs) (O1w) (11-1) DEFEATED
Hokutofuji (Age 28, 6'1", 346 lbs) (M5w) (7-5). Asanoyama moved into a tie for 1st place with Terunofuji with this win. He was able to establish a grip under both of Hokutofuji's arms and then tried to force him out. But Hokutofuji lowered himself and finally Asanoyama decided to win by throw, which he accomplished. Hokutofuji tried to bring Asanoyama down at the same time, but the Ozeki was on top. The win, along with Hakuho's 2nd defeat, brings about the crucial match between the 11-1 Shun-Ozeki (first match as Ozeki) and the 11-1 ex Ozeki who entered this Basho at M17e after an arduous 7 Basho road back to Makuuchi (Top Tier Tournament) that began in Jonidan (5th Tier--something like Class A in Major League Baseball). It was caused by terrible injuries to both knees (as well as hepatitis and diabetes). Terunofuji is far better than M17. How much better time will tell.
"I just have to [do] my own sumo every day". "If you [do] your sumo, the result will follow."
Asanoyama, reflecting on the win (Nikkansports.com--Japanese) (Loose English translation of Google Translate English)
Finishing move: Beltless Arm Throw (Sukuinage)
Time: 10.6 seconds.
Terunofuji (Age 28, 6'4", 397 lbs) (11-1) DEFEATED Tamawashi (Age 35, 6'2", 373 lbs) (M9e) (8-4). Terunofuji moved into a first place tie with Asanoyama with this victory, his 7th in a row. But it wasn't easy. Tamawashi had just earned his Kachi-koshi (8 wins--a winning Tournament) on the back of 4 wins in his last 6 matches. Nothing could top off his Basho like a win over the man at the top. Tamawashi's slap attacks kept Terunofuji at bay for a while, but he eventually got an advantage, and though Tamawashi saved himself at the straw bales twice, he finally ran out of room and was forced out. Terunofuji is now a definite contender for Yusho (Basho Championship), especially after the fall of Hakuho today. Tomorrow will be the biggest match of the Basho, perhaps the defining match, as Terunofuji, the Ozeki now well and truly back in from the cold, goes after the 2nd M15 or lower Yusho in the last three Bashos, and his first since his return to Makuuchi (Top Tier).
"I was excited, so I decided to stay calm. I looked calmly and thought I would go out...I just calmly do what I need to do. [Now] I just focus on tomorrow's [match]."
Terunofujii, reflecting on today and thinking about tomorrow (Nikkansports.com--Japanese) (Loose English translation of Google Translate English)
Finishing move: Frontal Force Out (Yorikiri)
Time: 17.8 seconds
2. The other Ozeki/other San'yaku v San'yaku
Takakeisho (Age 23, 5'9", 373 lbs) (O1e) (8-3-1[Forfeit]) withdrew from the Basho with a damaged left knee ligament. He finishes with Kachi-koshi and so retains his Ozeki standing. Daieisho (Age 26, 6'0", 362 lbs) (K1e) (8-4) was awarded the victory. He has earned Kachi-koshi, the first San'yako (Top Rank) Kachi-koshi of his career.
"I’m happy about that. As long as I’m doing my sumo, the (winning record) is what I aim for".
Daieisho, talking about his first San'yako Kachi-koshi. (Japan Times)
Takakeisho is expected to require 4 weeks to rehabilitate the injury.
3. Second rematch of the Basho.
Tochinosin(Age 32, 6'3", 381 lbs) (M11w) (7-5) defeated Shohozan
(Age 36, 5'10", 293 lbs) (M12) (2-10). Unlike baseball, ties do not go to the "runner" in Sumo. It does not matter if it's the thrower or the throwee. The Gyogi (Referee) called this match for Shohozan, which led to a Judge's Conference (mono-ii). It was clear from the replay that both men flew out of the dohyo (ring) simultaneously. So an immediate rematch was held. This time Tochinosin led at the tachiai (initial charge) with a forearm shiver which gave him the advantage, and eventually led to the finish. Tochinosin now needs one more win for his first Kachi-koshi since the May 2019 Basho. The Georgian born Rikishi is a 14 year veteran of the dohyo wars, reaching as high as Ozeki. For a man his size, he is very well defined and very powerful. He uses that power and his height to advantage when he is going well. Unfortunately, he has been battling a knee injury for some time and there was talk after his last 5 Basho (27-50-2(Forfeits), with 2 withdrawals causing him to miss another 19 matches) that his time may have passed. One more win will show that it hasn't, and many fans will be very happy to hear that. Shohozan has had a nightmare Basho, sandwiching two five match losing streaks around his two wins.
Finishing move: Slap Down (Hatakikomi)
Time: 4.6 seconds (rematch time)
4. The Rookies. (Note: My definition of Rookie is actually incorrect for this sport. A "Rookie" in Sumo is a Rikishi who is participating in his first Makuuchi (Top Tier) Basho. I have expanded that definition a bit in order to follow some new young talent.
Wakatakakage (Age 25, 6'0", 273 lbs) (M14w) (8-4) defeated Nishikigi
(Age 29, 6'1", 375 lbs) (M16e) (5-7). Wakatakakage won his first Makuuchi (Top Tier) Kachi-Koshi by outlasting Nishikigi in one of the best matches of the Basho. It was back and forth, with each Rikishi unable to finish because of the resistance of the other, before Wakatakakage was finally able to power his much bigger opponent out of the dohyo . Both men had been "hot" going into the match. Wakatakakage was riding a 4 match winning streak and was 7-1 after starting out 0-3. Nishikigi was riding a 3 match winning streak and had the incentive of taking a big step toward earning a Kachi-koshi after a 2-6 start. The match showed, in my opinion, just how effective their sumo is at the moment. The Kachi-koshi was achieved in Wakatakage's 2nd Makuuchi [Top Tier] Basho.
"My debut [November 2019 Basho--M16e--4-1[Forfeit]-10 [withdrew from the Basho] was not so great, so I decided to put on some weight. I did it by working out, not (just) eating, so it’s all muscle".
Wakatakakage on one of the reasons for his success (Japan Times)
Finishing move: Frontal Force Out (Yorikiri)
Time: 33.9 seconds.
Kotoshoho (Age 20, 6'3", 364 lbs) (M15e) (7-5) lost to Terutsuyoshi (Age 25, 5'7" , 265 lbs (M7e) (6-6). On Day 10, Kotoshoho was riding an opening 5 match winning streak to a 7-2 record, and was on the fringes of Yusho contention. Today he failed to get his Kachi-koshi for the 3rd consecutive day. During the opening streak he won all of his matches against M12s or lower. The last 3 days he has lost to M10, M9, and M7. He is still in with an excellent chance for a Kachi-koshi in his first Makuuchi Basho, but sometimes that last win is the most difficult to get. Today Terutsuyoshi, a young Rikishi with a lot of potential, but who is now recognized most for his signature salt throwing [The Daily New Nation--Dhaka, Bengladesh] (for more on Salt Throwing see the short NHK Sumopedia video that explains the ritual, where he has joined a group of past Rikishi who also tossed enormous amounts), stopped the rookie. He did it with a brilliant move at the tachiai (initial charge) that completely flummoxed the youngster and led to a quick and easy win. That evened Terutsiyoshi's record and left him needing 2 wins in his last 3 matches for Kachi-koshi. For Kotoshoho, tomorrow is another opportunity.
Finishing move: Leg Pick (Ashitori)
Time: 0.9 seconds.
Kotonowaka (Age 22, 6'2" ,373 lbs) (M13w) (4-2-1 (forfeit)-5 absent, remained sidelined with the knee injury he suffered on Day 7. Whether he will return in this Basho is not known at this time.
5. Today's Juryo (2nd Tier) Substitute
Tobizaru (Age 28, 5'9", 282 lbs)(J2e) (7-5) defeated Chiyomaryu (Age 29, 5'10", 419 lbs (M15w) (3-9). Tobizaru brought the Juryo substitute record in the Makuuchi (Top Tier) Basho to 2-7. He is now 1-1 as a substitute and the win brought him one step closer to a Kachi-koshi in the Juryo Basho. Juryo substitutes' records are kept in the Basho they are part of, even if one or more of their matches are contested in a higher tier Basho. Any Kachi-koshi would promote him, but a Kachi-kochi with a victory in Makuuchi would go a long way to promoting him to Maegashira. He is, for all practical purposes, out of contention in the very exciting Juryo Basho, which, as of today has one 9 match winner and five 8 match winners (including Meisei--See below under Day 3--who has the other Juryo victory by a Makuuchi substitute--and also is 1-1 in that role). Tobizaru's task at this point, is to win 3 more matches, and then see what happens. He had a great match today, facing an opponent who outweighed him by 137 pounds and completely dominating the match, on the offensive from beginning to end, and winning with a very stylish throw. For Chiyomaryu it has been a frustrating and difficult Basho. He is most likely headed down to Juryo.
This, for me, a new Sumo fan, is one of the most interesting aspects of the sport. There are so many story lines in each Basho, and so many reasons why so many matches have so much riding on them.
Finishing move: Underarm Throw (Shitatenage)
Time: 6.2 seconds
+++
San'yaku: Yokozuna Make-koshi results in retirement--Yokozuna cannot be demoted; Ozeki have special rules for demotion; Sekiwake and Komusubi will be demoted)
Day 8: Yutakayama (M1w) 2-10; Onosho (M2w) 0-12
Day 9: None
Day 10: Ikioi (M10w) 2-10; Shimanoumi (M11e) 4-8; Shohozan (M12w) 2-10
Day 11: Abi (M5e) 3-3( of which 1 by forfeit)+6 (pulled out of the Tournament by his Stable master after violating JSA Covid 19 social distancing rules); Chiyomaru (M15w) 3-9
Day 12: Takaraufuji (M3e) 4-8; Kiribayama (M3w) 4-8; Kagayaki (M4e) 4-8; Ishiura (M8e) 4-8
Results:
Day 12 Results (Sumo Reference) (ADDED JULY 30)
Basho Cumulative Win-Loss Martrix (Sumo Reference) (ADDED JULY 30)
Day 12: July 30: Japanese Sumo Association (click on rikishi name for relevant
data including percentage of each Kimarite (finishing) move used, rank and full results of last 5 tournaments, all on one page) (ADDED JULY 30)
Daily Cumulative Results (Japan Times) (Updated JULY 30)
Day 12 Time of Each Match: (nikkansports.com) (in Japanese, use Google Translate) Matches are in order from lowest rank to highest. Check against Sumo Reference above, which has matches in order from high to low. (ADDED JULY 30)
Top Rank (ALL ADDED JULY 30)
Asanoyama (O1w) 11-1Hakuho (Y1e) 10-2
Shodai (S1e) 9-3; Mitakeumi (S1w) 9-3
Takakeisho (O1e) 8-3-1(Forfeit)
Daieisho (K1e) 8-4
Okinoumi (K1w) 7-5
Others with 1 loss:
Terunofuji (M17e) 11-1
Others with 2 losses: none
Rookies:
Wakatakakage (M14w) 8-4
Kotoshoho (M16e) 7-5
Kotonowaka (M13w) 4-3-1(forfeit) (out with a knee injury)
Articles:
Japan Times Day 12 Tournament Report (ADDED JULY 30)
Mitakeumi defeats Hakuho, "I was abandoned" (Nikkansports.com, in Japanese--Use Google Translate) (ADDED JULY 30)
Asanoyama "Borrow a breast" Shin-Ozeki V Fortune-telling with Moto-Ozeki (Nikkansports.com, in Japanese--Use Google Translate) (ADDED JULY 30)
Indomitable Terunofuji 11 wins, from the second stage to the largest revival in history (Nikkansports.com, in Japanese--Use Google Translate) (ADDED JULY 30)
Terunofuji fiercely defeated and lost to Asanoyama battle "just do it" (Nikkansports.com, in Japanese--Use Google Translate) (ADDED JULY 30)
Ozeki Takakeisho out of July tourney after avoiding demotion (Kyodo News) (ADDED JULY 30)
Photos:
Mitakeumi wins reversal, Hakuho loses / 12th day photo feature
(Nikkansports.com) (in Japanese, Use Google Translate)
Today's feature contains photos from 11 of today's matches, in order, from highest to lowest, as can be seen in the Sumo Reference Day 11 Results above.
Day 12 video highlights (short highlights of all 21 matches, less than 30 minutes)
NHK Day 12 Basho Roundup (about 3 minutes, contains full match videos of the 3 main matches)
Developments of Interest:(All finishing moves will be linked to demonstration videos. Source for all match times is Nikkansports.com (Day 12) (Japanese, use Google Translate, but you can see the times. Bouts are from lowest to highest rank).
Note: Source for Rikishi Dimensions: Japan Sumo Association Database. Heights are rounded to the nearest inch, weights to the nearest pound.
1. Key matches of the Day
Grand Champion Yokozuna Hakuho (Age 35, 6'4", 333 lbs) (Y1e--69th Yokozuna) (10-2) LOST TO Mitakeumi (Age 27, 5'11",386 lbs) (S1w) (9-3).
Mitakeumi won the upset of the Basho (Tournament), turning certain defeat into victory with a quick sidestep and thrust down just before he would have been forced out. The move happened in an eye blink and certainly surprised, and possibly hurt Hakuho, who took a long time to get back into the dohyo (ring). It also turned the Basho on its head. Hakuho, who has so dominated for the first 10 matches, is now looking up from 3rd place. He is not out yet, but now must win out in order to earn his 42nd Yokozuna Yusho (and 45th overall).
Mitakeumi has now beaten the Yokozuna and Ozeki, handing them their second and first losses respectively, in the last three days. After beginning the Basho with 7 consecutive wins (one a forfeit when Abi was removed for violating social distance), Mitakeumi stumbled, losing 3 of the next 4. But now he is finishing strong, a little too late for Yusho (Championship) contention. But even so, every win means something, as this is his 1st return to Sekiwake after 2 Basho as Maegashira. This is his 4th time as Sekiwake. This Basho will be a good start to an Ozeki run for him. He needs 33 wins in 3 Basho to get there. Each win counts, and the wins over two higher ranked Rikishi will be helpful to his chances. His last Ozeki run began with a 12-3 Yusho in the July 2018 Basho, but three Basho later he was Komusubi. He won another Sekiwake Yusho in September 2019, but was Maegashira two Basho later. It should be noted that both his Yusho were in Basho that both Yokozuna withdrew from due to injuries. However, he has shown that he can win big matches. His final two matches are against M4 and M16, so he could easily go into the final day with 11 wins. A good start for an Ozeki run.
"I’m happy. I was in trouble there, but I just made the move at the edge."
Mitakeumi, analyzing his victory (Japan Times)
Finishing move: Thrust Down (Tsukiotashi)
Time: 4.1 seconds.
Asanoyama (Age 26, 6'2", 379 lbs) (O1w) (11-1) DEFEATED
Hokutofuji (Age 28, 6'1", 346 lbs) (M5w) (7-5). Asanoyama moved into a tie for 1st place with Terunofuji with this win. He was able to establish a grip under both of Hokutofuji's arms and then tried to force him out. But Hokutofuji lowered himself and finally Asanoyama decided to win by throw, which he accomplished. Hokutofuji tried to bring Asanoyama down at the same time, but the Ozeki was on top. The win, along with Hakuho's 2nd defeat, brings about the crucial match between the 11-1 Shun-Ozeki (first match as Ozeki) and the 11-1 ex Ozeki who entered this Basho at M17e after an arduous 7 Basho road back to Makuuchi (Top Tier Tournament) that began in Jonidan (5th Tier--something like Class A in Major League Baseball). It was caused by terrible injuries to both knees (as well as hepatitis and diabetes). Terunofuji is far better than M17. How much better time will tell.
"I just have to [do] my own sumo every day". "If you [do] your sumo, the result will follow."
Asanoyama, reflecting on the win (Nikkansports.com--Japanese) (Loose English translation of Google Translate English)
Finishing move: Beltless Arm Throw (Sukuinage)
Time: 10.6 seconds.
Terunofuji (Age 28, 6'4", 397 lbs) (11-1) DEFEATED Tamawashi (Age 35, 6'2", 373 lbs) (M9e) (8-4). Terunofuji moved into a first place tie with Asanoyama with this victory, his 7th in a row. But it wasn't easy. Tamawashi had just earned his Kachi-koshi (8 wins--a winning Tournament) on the back of 4 wins in his last 6 matches. Nothing could top off his Basho like a win over the man at the top. Tamawashi's slap attacks kept Terunofuji at bay for a while, but he eventually got an advantage, and though Tamawashi saved himself at the straw bales twice, he finally ran out of room and was forced out. Terunofuji is now a definite contender for Yusho (Basho Championship), especially after the fall of Hakuho today. Tomorrow will be the biggest match of the Basho, perhaps the defining match, as Terunofuji, the Ozeki now well and truly back in from the cold, goes after the 2nd M15 or lower Yusho in the last three Bashos, and his first since his return to Makuuchi (Top Tier).
"I was excited, so I decided to stay calm. I looked calmly and thought I would go out...I just calmly do what I need to do. [Now] I just focus on tomorrow's [match]."
Terunofujii, reflecting on today and thinking about tomorrow (Nikkansports.com--Japanese) (Loose English translation of Google Translate English)
Finishing move: Frontal Force Out (Yorikiri)
Time: 17.8 seconds
2. The other Ozeki/other San'yaku v San'yaku
Takakeisho (Age 23, 5'9", 373 lbs) (O1e) (8-3-1[Forfeit]) withdrew from the Basho with a damaged left knee ligament. He finishes with Kachi-koshi and so retains his Ozeki standing. Daieisho (Age 26, 6'0", 362 lbs) (K1e) (8-4) was awarded the victory. He has earned Kachi-koshi, the first San'yako (Top Rank) Kachi-koshi of his career.
"I’m happy about that. As long as I’m doing my sumo, the (winning record) is what I aim for".
Daieisho, talking about his first San'yako Kachi-koshi. (Japan Times)
Takakeisho is expected to require 4 weeks to rehabilitate the injury.
3. Second rematch of the Basho.
Tochinosin(Age 32, 6'3", 381 lbs) (M11w) (7-5) defeated Shohozan
(Age 36, 5'10", 293 lbs) (M12) (2-10). Unlike baseball, ties do not go to the "runner" in Sumo. It does not matter if it's the thrower or the throwee. The Gyogi (Referee) called this match for Shohozan, which led to a Judge's Conference (mono-ii). It was clear from the replay that both men flew out of the dohyo (ring) simultaneously. So an immediate rematch was held. This time Tochinosin led at the tachiai (initial charge) with a forearm shiver which gave him the advantage, and eventually led to the finish. Tochinosin now needs one more win for his first Kachi-koshi since the May 2019 Basho. The Georgian born Rikishi is a 14 year veteran of the dohyo wars, reaching as high as Ozeki. For a man his size, he is very well defined and very powerful. He uses that power and his height to advantage when he is going well. Unfortunately, he has been battling a knee injury for some time and there was talk after his last 5 Basho (27-50-2(Forfeits), with 2 withdrawals causing him to miss another 19 matches) that his time may have passed. One more win will show that it hasn't, and many fans will be very happy to hear that. Shohozan has had a nightmare Basho, sandwiching two five match losing streaks around his two wins.
Finishing move: Slap Down (Hatakikomi)
Time: 4.6 seconds (rematch time)
4. The Rookies. (Note: My definition of Rookie is actually incorrect for this sport. A "Rookie" in Sumo is a Rikishi who is participating in his first Makuuchi (Top Tier) Basho. I have expanded that definition a bit in order to follow some new young talent.
Wakatakakage (Age 25, 6'0", 273 lbs) (M14w) (8-4) defeated Nishikigi
(Age 29, 6'1", 375 lbs) (M16e) (5-7). Wakatakakage won his first Makuuchi (Top Tier) Kachi-Koshi by outlasting Nishikigi in one of the best matches of the Basho. It was back and forth, with each Rikishi unable to finish because of the resistance of the other, before Wakatakakage was finally able to power his much bigger opponent out of the dohyo . Both men had been "hot" going into the match. Wakatakakage was riding a 4 match winning streak and was 7-1 after starting out 0-3. Nishikigi was riding a 3 match winning streak and had the incentive of taking a big step toward earning a Kachi-koshi after a 2-6 start. The match showed, in my opinion, just how effective their sumo is at the moment. The Kachi-koshi was achieved in Wakatakage's 2nd Makuuchi [Top Tier] Basho.
"My debut [November 2019 Basho--M16e--4-1[Forfeit]-10 [withdrew from the Basho] was not so great, so I decided to put on some weight. I did it by working out, not (just) eating, so it’s all muscle".
Wakatakakage on one of the reasons for his success (Japan Times)
Finishing move: Frontal Force Out (Yorikiri)
Time: 33.9 seconds.
Kotoshoho (Age 20, 6'3", 364 lbs) (M15e) (7-5) lost to Terutsuyoshi (Age 25, 5'7" , 265 lbs (M7e) (6-6). On Day 10, Kotoshoho was riding an opening 5 match winning streak to a 7-2 record, and was on the fringes of Yusho contention. Today he failed to get his Kachi-koshi for the 3rd consecutive day. During the opening streak he won all of his matches against M12s or lower. The last 3 days he has lost to M10, M9, and M7. He is still in with an excellent chance for a Kachi-koshi in his first Makuuchi Basho, but sometimes that last win is the most difficult to get. Today Terutsuyoshi, a young Rikishi with a lot of potential, but who is now recognized most for his signature salt throwing [The Daily New Nation--Dhaka, Bengladesh] (for more on Salt Throwing see the short NHK Sumopedia video that explains the ritual, where he has joined a group of past Rikishi who also tossed enormous amounts), stopped the rookie. He did it with a brilliant move at the tachiai (initial charge) that completely flummoxed the youngster and led to a quick and easy win. That evened Terutsiyoshi's record and left him needing 2 wins in his last 3 matches for Kachi-koshi. For Kotoshoho, tomorrow is another opportunity.
Finishing move: Leg Pick (Ashitori)
Time: 0.9 seconds.
Kotonowaka (Age 22, 6'2" ,373 lbs) (M13w) (4-2-1 (forfeit)-5 absent, remained sidelined with the knee injury he suffered on Day 7. Whether he will return in this Basho is not known at this time.
5. Today's Juryo (2nd Tier) Substitute
Tobizaru (Age 28, 5'9", 282 lbs)(J2e) (7-5) defeated Chiyomaryu (Age 29, 5'10", 419 lbs (M15w) (3-9). Tobizaru brought the Juryo substitute record in the Makuuchi (Top Tier) Basho to 2-7. He is now 1-1 as a substitute and the win brought him one step closer to a Kachi-koshi in the Juryo Basho. Juryo substitutes' records are kept in the Basho they are part of, even if one or more of their matches are contested in a higher tier Basho. Any Kachi-koshi would promote him, but a Kachi-kochi with a victory in Makuuchi would go a long way to promoting him to Maegashira. He is, for all practical purposes, out of contention in the very exciting Juryo Basho, which, as of today has one 9 match winner and five 8 match winners (including Meisei--See below under Day 3--who has the other Juryo victory by a Makuuchi substitute--and also is 1-1 in that role). Tobizaru's task at this point, is to win 3 more matches, and then see what happens. He had a great match today, facing an opponent who outweighed him by 137 pounds and completely dominating the match, on the offensive from beginning to end, and winning with a very stylish throw. For Chiyomaryu it has been a frustrating and difficult Basho. He is most likely headed down to Juryo.
This, for me, a new Sumo fan, is one of the most interesting aspects of the sport. There are so many story lines in each Basho, and so many reasons why so many matches have so much riding on them.
Finishing move: Underarm Throw (Shitatenage)
Time: 6.2 seconds
+++
Day 11:
All Kachi-koshi and Make-koshi information (ADDED JULY 29)
Kachi-koshi: (8 wins, a winning Tournament, Ms will be promoted, San'yaku--O, S, K have different rules for promotion)
Day 8: Hakuho (Y1e) 10-1; Asanoyama (O1w) 10-1
Day 9: Shodai (S1e) 8-3; Terunofuji (M17e) 10-1
Day 10: Mitakeumi (S1w) 8-3
Day 11: Takakeisho (O1e) 8-3; Tamawashi (M9e) 8-3; Kotoshogiku (M14e) 8-3; Kotoeko (M16w) 8-3
Make-Koshi (8 losses--losing Tournament, Ms will be demoted
San'yaku: Yokozuna Make-koshi results in retirement--Yokozuna cannot be demoted; Ozeki have special rules for demotion; Sekiwake and Komusubi will be demoted)
Day 8: Yutakayama (M1w) 1-10; Onosho (M2w) 0-11
Day 9: None
Day 10: Ikioi (M10w) 2-9; Shimanoumi (M11e) 3-8; Shohozan (M12w) 2-9
Day 11: Abi (M5e) 3-3( of which 1 by forfeit)+5 (pulled out of the Tournament by his Stable master after violating JSA Covid 19 social distancing rules): Chiyomaru (M15w) 3-8
Results:
Day 11 Results (Sumo Reference) (ADDED JULY 29)
Basho Cumulative Win-Loss Martrix (Sumo Reference) (ADDED JULY 29)
Day 11: July 29: Japanese Sumo Association (click on rikishi name for relevant
data including percentage of each Kimarite (finishing) move used, rank and full results of last 5 tournaments, all on one page) (ADDED JULY 29)
Daily Cumulative Results (Japan Times) (UPDATED JULY 30)
Day 11 Time of Each Match: (nikkansports.com) (in Japanese, use Google Translate) Matches are in order from lowest rank to highest. Check against Sumo Reference above, which has matches in order from high to low. (ADDED JULY 29)
Top Rank (ALL ADDED JULY 29)
Hakuho (Y1e) 10-1
Asanoyama (O1w) 10-1
Takakeisho (O1e) 8-3; Shodai (S1e) 8-3; Mitakeumi (S1w) 8-3
Daieisho (K1e) 7-4
Okinoumi (K1w) 6-5
Others with 1 loss:
Terunofuji (M17e) 10-1
Others with 2 losses: none
Rookies:
Kotoshoho (M16e) 7-4
Wakatakakage (M14w) 7-4
Kotonowaka (M13w) 4-3-1(forfeit) (out with a knee injury)
Articles:
Japan Times Day 11 Tournament Report (ADDED JULY 29)
Hakuho falls back to pack with upset loss on Day 11 (Kyodo News--same story as JT, with different photos (ADDED JULY 29)
Shoei Sakae (Daieisho--K1e) pushes all wins Hakuho and wins in "confidence" (Nikkansports.com) (in Japanese, Use Google Translate)(ADDED JULY 29)
"I get nervous every time I play against Yokozuna, but I was able to put out my strength today. I'm happy. I couldn't do anything if I was pushed and turned around. I thought I should hit it [him] firmly. I'm very confident. I think I am going to go well in the future."
Daieisho, when asked about his victory over Hakuho (Y1e). It was the Grand Champion's 1st loss in this Basho, and put 3 Rikishi at the top of the table (Hakuho, Asaonoyama (O3w), and Terunofuji (M17e). All are now 10-1.
Photos:
Shoei Sakae (Daieisho--K1e) pushes all wins Hakuho and wins in "confidence" (Nikkansports.com) (in Japanese, Use Google Translate)(ADDED JULY 29)
"I get nervous every time I play against Yokozuna, but I was able to put out my strength today. I'm happy. I couldn't do anything if I was pushed and turned around. I thought I should hit it [him] firmly. I'm very confident. I think I am going to go well in the future."
Daieisho, when asked about his victory over Hakuho (Y1e). It was the Grand Champion's 1st loss in this Basho, and put 3 Rikishi at the top of the table (Hakuho, Asaonoyama (O3w), and Terunofuji (M17e). All are now 10-1.
Photos:
3 people [Rikishi) on the 11th day of shooting [Basho],[lead the Basho] with 1 loss after losing Hakuho in the end [last match of the day] (Day 11 Photo Essay) (Nikkansports.com) (in Japanese, Use Google Translate)
Today's feature contains photos from 13 of today's match, in order, from highest to lowest, as can be seen in the Sumo Reference Day 11 Results above. Note that the photos of the Hakuho match basically cover the entire match.
Videos:
Day 11 video highlights (short highlights of all 21 matches, less than 30 minutes) (ADDED JULY 30)
Developments of Interest:(All finishing moves will be linked to demonstration videos. Source for all match times is Nikkansports.com (Day 11) (Japanese, use Google Translate, but you can see the times. Bouts are from lowest to highest rank).
Note: Source for Rikishi Dimensions: Japan Sumo Association Database. Heights are rounded to the nearest inch, weights to the nearest pound.
1. Key matches of the day
Grand Champion Yokozuna Hakuho (Age 35, 6'4", 333 lbs) (Y1e--69th Yokozuna) (10-1) LOST TO Daieisho (Age 26, 6'0", 362 lbs) (K1e)(7-4). Hakuho's dominance in this competition came to and end, and the one game lead he fashioned yesterday disappeared today. Daieisho has become a "giant killer" in the last two days, badly damaging Shodai's Yusho (Championship) hopes yesterday, and now taking advantage of a small mistake by the Champion to throw ther Basho wide open. Hakuho appeared to miss on an attempted belt grip and slightly lost his balance. Daieisho pounced on the opportunity and escorted him out. The loss created a three way tie at the top and threw the outcome of the Basho into doubt.
Finishing move: Frontal Push Out (Oshidashi)
Time: 6.4 seconds.
"I get nervous every time I play against Yokozuna, but I was able to put out my strength today. I'm happy. I couldn't do anything if I was pushed and turned around. I thought I should hit it [him] firmly. I'm very confident. I think I am going to go well in the future."
Daieisho, when asked about his victory over Hakuho (Y1e). It was the Grand Champion's 1st loss in this Basho, and put 3 Rikishi at the top of the table (Hakuho, Asaonoyama (O3w), and Terunofuji (M17e). All are now 10-1. (Nikkansports.com)
Daieisho--NHK post match interview.
Asanoyama (Age 26, 6'2", 379 lbs) (O1w) (10-1) DEFEATED Kagayaki (Age 26, 6'4" ,359 lbs) (M4e) (4-7). Asanoyama rebounded from his defeat yesterday to overpower Kagayaki, quickly driving him out. The win kept him in Yusho contention and pushed Kagayaki to within one loss of a Make-Koshi. Note that this was a case where the Yorikiri was enforced by the body, rather than using a grip on the belt (mawashi).
Finishing move: Frontal Force Out (Yorikiri)
Time: 4.5 seconds
Terunofuji (Age 28, 6'4", 397 lbs) (M17e) (10-1) DEFEATED Tochinosin (Age 32, 6'3", 381 lbs) (M11w) (6-5). Terunofuji ran his winning streak to 6 and moved into a 3 way tie for 1st place with Hakuho and Asanoyama. It was an exhausting standoff that Terunofuji finally won. What began as a feel good story for the ex-Ozeki coming back from Jonidan (5thTier) has now turned into something else. He now has control over his own fate in the Tournament. He will match up with both of his 10-1 opponents in the last 4 matches of the Basho. He has a simply understood but not so easy task. Win his final 4 matches. If he does that, he will have returned to Makuuchi from his long and difficult voyage and claimed Yusho.
Finishing move: Frontal Force Out (Yorikiri)
Time: 48.2 seconds
2. The other Ozeki (the 1st San'yaku v San'yaku match of the day)
Takakeisho (Age 23, 5'9", 373 lbs) (O1e) (8-3) defeated Mitakeumi (Age 27, 5'11",386 lbs) (S1w) (8-3). Mitakeumi had a chance to beat both Ozeki on consecutive days, as well as keep himself within hailing distance of the leaders. Alas, it was not to be, as Takakeisho earned his Kachi-koshi and avoided Ozeki demotion. In this match he blasted out quickly, almost too quickly. But Takakeisho was able to push Mitakeumi out just before the Sekiwake could finish his slap down.
Finishing move: Frontal Push Out (Oshidashi)
Time: 1.3 seconds.
3. The Rookies. (Note: My definition of Rookie is actually incorrect for this sport. A "Rookie" in Sumo is a Rikishi who is participating in his first Makuuchi (Top Tier) Basho. I have expanded that definition a bit in order to follow some new young talent.
Wakatakakage (Age 25, 6'0", 273 lbs) (M14w) (7-4) defeated
Chiyomaryu (Age 29, 5'10", 419 lbs (M15w) (3-8). Wakatakage ended any Kachi-koshi hopes for Chiyomaryu. At the same time he won his 4th in a row and 7th of his last 8 since opening with a 3 match losing streak. In this match he dominated from the tachiai (initial charge), easily forcing out a man who outweighed him by 146 pounds.
Finishing move: Frontal Force Out (Yorikiri)
Time: 4.2 seconds
Kotoshoho (Age 20, 6'3", 364 lbs) (M15e) (7-4) lost to Tamawashi (Age 35, 6'2", 373 lbs) (M9e) (8-3). For the 2nd day in a row Kotoshoho failed to earn Kachi-koshi. He has now has lost 4 of his last 6 after opening the Basho with 5 consecutive wins. Tamawashi has not lost 2 matches in a row and has had 1 three match winning streaks, and 2 two match winning streaks. Kotoshoho tried to use a push and thrust attack against a much more experienced pusher/thruster. The strategy did not work.
Finishing move: Frontal Force Out (Yorikiri)
Time: 6.0 seconds
Kotonowaka (Age 22, 6'2" ,373 lbs) (M13w) (4-2-1 (forfeit)-4 absent, remained sidelined with the knee injury he suffered on Day 7. Whether he will return in this Basho is not known at this time.
4. Today's Juryo (2nd Tier) Substitute
Chiyosoma (Age 29, 6'0", 283 lbs) (J1w) lost to Nishikigi (Age 29, 6'1" , 375 lbs) (M16e) (5-6). This was Chiyosoma's 2nd match as a Makuuchi substitute. He lost on Day 4 to Terunofuji (see Day 4 below). This time he won the Tachiai (initial charge), side stepping his opponent, gaining an advantage, and throwing him down. Or that is how the Gyoji (Referee) saw it. The judges weren't so sure and called a conference (moni-ii). It was clear that Chiyosoma was executing his finishing move with one foot out of the dohyo (ring) and the decision was reversed. Nishikigi needed the win as he struggles toward Kachi-koshi (winning Basho). If he doesn't get the 3 wins he needs, he will suffer a Make-koshi (losing Basho). Because of his low Maegashira rank in this Basho, he would almost certainly be demoted to Juryo (2nd Tier). Chiyosoma is an 11 year veteran whose high water mark was M2. He has not been on the Makuuchi (Top Tier) Circuit since the May 2019 Basho. Since then he has alternate 8-7 and 7-8 records in each of the Basho before this one.
Finishing move: Frontal Push Out (Oshidashi)
Time: 1.7 seconds
+++
Day 10:
Results: (ALL ADDED JULY 28)
Kachi-koshi: (8 wins, a winning Tournament, Ms will be promoted, San'yaku--O, S, K have different rules for promotion)
Day 8: Hakuno (Y1e) 10-0; Asanoyama (O1w) 9-1
Day 9: Shodai (S1e) 8-2; Terunofuji (M17e) 9-1
Day 10: Mitakeumi (S1w) 8-2
Make-koshi (8 losses--losing Tournament, Ms will be demoted, San'yaku have different rules of demotion)
Day 8: Yutakayama (M1w) 1-9; Onosho (M2w) 0-10
Day 9: None
Day 10: Ikioi (M10w) 2-8; Shimanoumi (M11e) 2-8; Shohozan (M12w) 2-8
Day 10 Results (Sumo Reference) (ADDED JULY 28)
Basho Cumulative Win-Loss Martrix (Sumo Reference) (ADDED JULY 28)
Day 10: July 28: Japanese Sumo Association (click on rikishi name for relevant
data including percentage of each Kimarite (finishing) move used, rank and full results of last 5 tournaments, all on one page) (ADDED July 28)
Daily Cumulative Results (Japan Times) (ADDED JULY 28)
Day 10 Time of Each Match: (nikkansports.com) (in Japanese, use Google Translate) Matches are in order from lowest rank to highest. Check against Sumo Reference above, which has matches in order from high to low. (ADDED JULY 28)
Top Rank (ALL ADDED JULY 28)
Hakuho (Y1e) 10-0
Asanoyama (O1w) 9-1
Shodai (S1e) 8-2; Mitakeumi (S1w) 8-2
Takakeisho (O1e) 7-3
Daieisho (K1e) 6-4
Okinoumi (K1w) 5-5
Others with 1 loss:
Terunofuji (M17e) 9-1
Others with 2 losses: none
Rookies:
Kotoshoho (M16e) 7-3
Wakatakakage (M14w) 6-4
Kotonowaka (M13w) 4-3-1(forfeit) (out with a knee injury)
Articles:
Japan Times Day 10 Tournament Report (ADDED JULY 28)
Yokozuna Hakuho takes sole lead at July tournament (Kyodo News--same story as JT, with different photos (ADDED JULY 28)
Protecting Terunofuji 1 loss, the battle for the championship "will follow later" (Nikkansports.com) (in Japanese, Use Google Translate)
Photos:
Hakuho, I even skipped to the on-site broadcast seats.../10th day photo feature (in Japanese--Use Google Translate)
Today's feature contains photos from 14 of today's match, in order, from lowest to highest rank, as can be seen in the Sumo Reference Day 10 Results above. Note that the photos of the 9th match (actually the 15th match of the day--(Takarafuji [M3e] v Yutakayama [M1w]) show, below the match photo, a photo of the Judges meeting in the Dohyo (ring) to discuss (mono-ii) the Gyogo's (Referee's) decision. They can agree, overturn, or decide that it is too close to call, which necessitates an immediate rematch.
Videos
Day 10 video highlights (short highlights of all 21 matches, less than 30 minutes) (ADDED JULY 29) (CORRECTED JULY 30--LINK WAS TO DAY 10 VIDEO--APOLOGIES FOR ANY INCONVENIENCE CAUSED)
Developments of Interest (All finishing moves will be linked to demonstration videos. Source for all match times is Nikkansports.com (Day 10) (Japanese, use Google Translate, but you can see the times. Bouts are from lowest to highest rank). (ALL ADDED JULY 29)
Note: Source for Rikishi Dimensions: Japan Sumo Association Database. Heights are rounded to the nearest inch, weights to the nearest pound.
1. Yokozuna action
Grand Champion Hakuho (Age 35, 6'4", 333 lbs) (Y1e--69th Yokozuna) (10-0) took over undisputed possession of 1st place with an easy win over Hokutofuji (Age 28, 6'1", 346 lbs) (M5w) (6-4). Hokutofuji, a 5 year veteran, has reached Komusubi rank 3 times. In March he had a poor Basho (4-11 with an 8 match losing streak). He was dropped from K1 to M5. He has come back well in this Basho, winning 4 of his first 5. After 2 losses, he got back on track with win over Takakeisho (O1e).
As for Hakuho, today was his 1,000th match as a Yokozuna. No other Yokozuna has fought that many. He is 35 now, and has much in the way of statistics and hardware to prove his claim on the title "Greatest of All Time." But he is still doing it, and looking for his 9th run of multiple titles. Of the 8 he has, 2 were SIX Yusho streaks. During one of those he won 63 matches in a row, 2nd only to the legendary Futabayama (35th Yokozuna--1938-1945). He has won 15 Yusho with a perfect record (15-0). He also has many other records.
With all that, he has shown tremendous determination and dominance in this Basho. Today was no different, as he blasted Hotkutofuji out of the dohyo (ring) in 2.4 seconds. Tomorrow Hakuho faces Daieisho (K1e).
Finishing move: Frontal Push Out (Oshidashi)
Time: 2.4 seconds.
Hakuho's winning times so far (seconds) (all but one against Ms): 4.5; 2.4; 3.7; 2.8; 4.3, 2.8, 2.1, 4.1, 6.4, and 2.4 seconds
Average: 3.55 seconds.
2. Top Rank v Top Rank
There were 2 all San'yaku matches today
Asanoyama (Age 26, 6'2", 379 lbs) (O1w) (9-1) lost to Mitakeumi (Age 27, 5'11",386 lbs) (S1w) (8-2). The new Ozeki lost for the first time, and with the loss, fell to second place in the Basho. He has had a couple of close calls (reversing possible defeates at the very end) earlier, and today his luck ran out. Mitakeumi, who had lost his last 2 matches, blocked Asanoyama's attempts to get his favorite left hand belt (mawashi) grip, and then got a solid belt grip of his own to spin the Ozeki around, and out. With the win Mitakeumi stays on the fringe of contention, and also earned his Kachi-Koshi. He also has 5 more matches in which to increase his wins total, so that even if he doesn't earn a Yusho, he could begin to build the blocks that lead to Ozeki rank.Tomorrow he faces Takakeisho, and there is all to fight for in that match. Asanoyama battles Kagayaki (M4e--4-6).
Finishing move: Over Arm Throw (Uwatenage)
Time: 7.3 seconds.
"Well, I lost for two consecutive days and couldn't execute my own Sumo. So I really wanted to win this bout. That's why it felt good to win. I hope to continue to show strong Sumo.
Mitakeumi, in the post match interview.
"I couldn't get to the right and I couldn't get my left upper hand. Looking back, I was impatient. I lost one but want to get back to my sumo tomorrow"
Asanoyama, speaking about his 1st defeat in the Basho
(Loose English translation of Google English Translation).
Shodai (Age 28, 6'0", 364 lbs) (S1e) (8-2) lost to Daieisho (Age 26, 6'0", 362 lbs) (K1e)(6-4). Daieisho pulled off a big upset and derailed, for the moment, Shodai's Yuho chances. Shodai came into this match with a 6 match winning streak, including a win over Mitakeumi (S1w) on Day 8 that knocked him out of the undefeated ranks. Shodai has an advantageous schedule the next two days, with Hokutofuji (M5w) and Enho (M6e) coming up. In this match, Daieisho won the Tachiai with a bang, and used the momentum from that to wrap things up quickly.
Finishing move: Frontal Thrust Out (Tsukidashi)
Time: 5.0 seconds.
3. The Other Ozeki
Takakeisho (Age 23, 5'9", 373 lbs) (O1e) (7-3) defeated Aoiyama (Age 34, 6'4", 426 lbs) (M4w) (3-7). Takakeisho took a giant step toward the Kachi-koshi (winning record) that will preserve his Ozeki status. He has stuttered at times, but is winning the big matches now, when they are the most important. He has now won 3 in a row and is on the brink of his main goal of the Basho. He also remained on the cusp of contention for the Yusho, but at 3 matches behind with 5 to go, he needs to win every match and have a lot of other matches go his way. Aoiyama has now lost 4 in a row, all to San'yaku. He cannot afford to lose again.
Finishing move: Thrust Down (Tsukiotashi)
Time: 11.7 seconds.
4. The Ozeki on the Comeback Trail (from Ozeki to Jonidan (5th Tier) and back.
Terunofuji (Age 28, 6'4", 397 lbs) (M17e) (9-1) defeated Shohozan (Age 36, 5'10", 293 lbs) (M12) (2-8). In a case of two Rikishi going in opposite directions, Terunofuji made short work of Shohozan, sending him on his way to a Make-kochi. At the same time, Terunofuji stayed within one match of the leaders, Hakuho (Y1e) and Asanoyama (O1w). He is, if the quote above is accurate, keeping it all in perspective. No matter the final outcome, it has been a great Basho for him. Shohozan is in the middle of a long slump, his last 3 Basho yielding 13 wins and 27 losses as of today.
Finishing move: Hand Pull Down (Hikiotashi)
5. The Rookies (Note: My definition of Rookie is actually incorrect for this sport. A "Rookie" in Sumo is a Rikishi who is participating in his first Makuuchi (Top Tier) Basho. I have expanded that definition a bit in order to follow some new young talent.
Kotoshoho (Age 20, 6'3", 364 lbs) (M15e) (7-3) lost to Kaisei (Age 33, 6'5", 443 lbs) (M10e) (4-6). After making a strong impression, winning his 1st 5 Makuuchi matches, Kotoshoho has found the going much tougher lately, losing 3 of his last 5. Today's opponent was the biggest and tallest man in the Basho. Born in Brazil, Kaisei is a 14 year veteran who has reached Sekiwake once. He has settled into a role as a regular mid level Maegashira, having participated at that rank in 18 of the last 22 Basho (1 Komusubi and 3 Juryo). The high point of his career was the Jun-Yusho (2nd place--12-3 as M6) he won in the March 2018 Basho. He also won the Outstanding Performance Prize (Kanto-sho) for that Basho. He has earned Kachi-koshi in his last 2 Basho and needs a strong finish to keep that streak alive.
Finishing move: Pulling Under Arm Throw (Shitatedashinage)
Time: 18.1 seconds.
Wakatakakage (Age 25, 6'0", 273 lbs) (M14w) (6-4) defeated Takayasu (Age 30, 6'2" , 379 lbs) (M13e) (5-5). There are several ex-Ozeki in this Basho and Takayasu is one of them. He is a 15 year veteran who became Ozeki in July 2017, but has been plagued with injuries and missed parts or all of 6 Basho as Ozeki. He lost his Ozeki rank in November 2019 and had a poor Basho in January 2020, after which he was demoted from Sekiwake to M1. He suffered a serious injury on Day 4 of the March Basho and was unable to continue. He is now trying to fight his way back from M13. He needed this match badly for a leg up on a Kachi-koshi but it didn't work out for him today. It was one of those matches that was over in a flash. He charged at the Tachiai (initial charge), and Wakatakakage quickly moved to the side and helped him down when he lost his balance. It was one of the shortest matches of the Basho, 0.6 seconds. He still has a decent chance at Kachi-toshi (winning Tournament, needing 3 wins in his final 5 matches to get there.
Wakatakage continued his winning ways, with his 6th victory in the last 7 matches, and very little energy consumed. He is two wins away from a promotion.
Finishing move: Thrust Down (Tsukiotashi)
Time: 0.6 seconds
Kotonowaka (Age 22, 6'2" ,373 lbs) (M13w) (4-2-1 (forfeit)-3 absent, remained sidelined with the knee injury he suffered on Day 7. Whether he will return in this Basho is not known at this time.
6. Today's Juryo (2nd Tier) Substitute
Meisei (Age 25, 5'11", 326 lbs) (J1e) substituted for the second time in the Basho. He was the first Juryo substitute (see Day 3 below). He won his first Makuuchi (Top Rank match) but lost to Kotoeko (Age 28, 5'10", 287 lbs) (M16w) (7-3) today. Kotoeko is a 13 year veteran. It took him 11 years to to reach Makuuchi (Top Rank) status. His top rank has been M7, but on the back of two unfortunate Basho (November 2019 and January 2020--7-23), he dropped from M7 back to J5. He had an excellent Juryo Basho in March (11-4), which got him promoted to M16. He has enjoyed an excellent Basho that has taken him to the verge of Kachi-Koshi. 5 of his wins have come against higher ranked Maegashira. The other 2 have come against Juryo substitutes. He lost on Day 2 to 9-1 Terunofuji (M17e), but put up a valiant 19.9 second struggle. Hopefully, he will finish with a flourish and be promoted far enough so that Juryo will be a distant shore.
Meisei (see Day 3 Developments below), was demoted after the March 2020 Makuuchi Basho, finishing 7-8 from M17, so there was no place to go but Juryo. But he is having a very good Juryo Basho (6-4, which includes his split in 2 Makuuchi bouts, and which will surely be noted when judging who goes where in the next Banzuke [rankings]). As of today, he is one match behind the Juryo leaders. If he takes care of business, he should be back to Maegashira soon. How high he goes depends on how well he takes care of business.
Finishing move: Slap Down (Hatakikomi)
Time: 6.7 seconds.
Videos
Day 10 video highlights (short highlights of all 21 matches, less than 30 minutes) (ADDED JULY 29) (CORRECTED JULY 30--LINK WAS TO DAY 10 VIDEO--APOLOGIES FOR ANY INCONVENIENCE CAUSED)
Developments of Interest (All finishing moves will be linked to demonstration videos. Source for all match times is Nikkansports.com (Day 10) (Japanese, use Google Translate, but you can see the times. Bouts are from lowest to highest rank). (ALL ADDED JULY 29)
Note: Source for Rikishi Dimensions: Japan Sumo Association Database. Heights are rounded to the nearest inch, weights to the nearest pound.
1. Yokozuna action
Grand Champion Hakuho (Age 35, 6'4", 333 lbs) (Y1e--69th Yokozuna) (10-0) took over undisputed possession of 1st place with an easy win over Hokutofuji (Age 28, 6'1", 346 lbs) (M5w) (6-4). Hokutofuji, a 5 year veteran, has reached Komusubi rank 3 times. In March he had a poor Basho (4-11 with an 8 match losing streak). He was dropped from K1 to M5. He has come back well in this Basho, winning 4 of his first 5. After 2 losses, he got back on track with win over Takakeisho (O1e).
As for Hakuho, today was his 1,000th match as a Yokozuna. No other Yokozuna has fought that many. He is 35 now, and has much in the way of statistics and hardware to prove his claim on the title "Greatest of All Time." But he is still doing it, and looking for his 9th run of multiple titles. Of the 8 he has, 2 were SIX Yusho streaks. During one of those he won 63 matches in a row, 2nd only to the legendary Futabayama (35th Yokozuna--1938-1945). He has won 15 Yusho with a perfect record (15-0). He also has many other records.
With all that, he has shown tremendous determination and dominance in this Basho. Today was no different, as he blasted Hotkutofuji out of the dohyo (ring) in 2.4 seconds. Tomorrow Hakuho faces Daieisho (K1e).
Finishing move: Frontal Push Out (Oshidashi)
Time: 2.4 seconds.
Hakuho's winning times so far (seconds) (all but one against Ms): 4.5; 2.4; 3.7; 2.8; 4.3, 2.8, 2.1, 4.1, 6.4, and 2.4 seconds
Average: 3.55 seconds.
2. Top Rank v Top Rank
There were 2 all San'yaku matches today
Asanoyama (Age 26, 6'2", 379 lbs) (O1w) (9-1) lost to Mitakeumi (Age 27, 5'11",386 lbs) (S1w) (8-2). The new Ozeki lost for the first time, and with the loss, fell to second place in the Basho. He has had a couple of close calls (reversing possible defeates at the very end) earlier, and today his luck ran out. Mitakeumi, who had lost his last 2 matches, blocked Asanoyama's attempts to get his favorite left hand belt (mawashi) grip, and then got a solid belt grip of his own to spin the Ozeki around, and out. With the win Mitakeumi stays on the fringe of contention, and also earned his Kachi-Koshi. He also has 5 more matches in which to increase his wins total, so that even if he doesn't earn a Yusho, he could begin to build the blocks that lead to Ozeki rank.Tomorrow he faces Takakeisho, and there is all to fight for in that match. Asanoyama battles Kagayaki (M4e--4-6).
Finishing move: Over Arm Throw (Uwatenage)
Time: 7.3 seconds.
"Well, I lost for two consecutive days and couldn't execute my own Sumo. So I really wanted to win this bout. That's why it felt good to win. I hope to continue to show strong Sumo.
Mitakeumi, in the post match interview.
"I couldn't get to the right and I couldn't get my left upper hand. Looking back, I was impatient. I lost one but want to get back to my sumo tomorrow"
Asanoyama, speaking about his 1st defeat in the Basho
(Loose English translation of Google English Translation).
Finishing move: Frontal Thrust Out (Tsukidashi)
Time: 5.0 seconds.
3. The Other Ozeki
Takakeisho (Age 23, 5'9", 373 lbs) (O1e) (7-3) defeated Aoiyama (Age 34, 6'4", 426 lbs) (M4w) (3-7). Takakeisho took a giant step toward the Kachi-koshi (winning record) that will preserve his Ozeki status. He has stuttered at times, but is winning the big matches now, when they are the most important. He has now won 3 in a row and is on the brink of his main goal of the Basho. He also remained on the cusp of contention for the Yusho, but at 3 matches behind with 5 to go, he needs to win every match and have a lot of other matches go his way. Aoiyama has now lost 4 in a row, all to San'yaku. He cannot afford to lose again.
Finishing move: Thrust Down (Tsukiotashi)
Time: 11.7 seconds.
4. The Ozeki on the Comeback Trail (from Ozeki to Jonidan (5th Tier) and back.
Terunofuji (Age 28, 6'4", 397 lbs) (M17e) (9-1) defeated Shohozan (Age 36, 5'10", 293 lbs) (M12) (2-8). In a case of two Rikishi going in opposite directions, Terunofuji made short work of Shohozan, sending him on his way to a Make-kochi. At the same time, Terunofuji stayed within one match of the leaders, Hakuho (Y1e) and Asanoyama (O1w). He is, if the quote above is accurate, keeping it all in perspective. No matter the final outcome, it has been a great Basho for him. Shohozan is in the middle of a long slump, his last 3 Basho yielding 13 wins and 27 losses as of today.
Finishing move: Hand Pull Down (Hikiotashi)
Time: 4.4 seconds
"That sort of thing [the battle for the Championship] will come later. Beyond my heartlessness [seeming lack of excitement about his position in the Basho?] I can see the 2nd gift [possibility of a 2nd Yusho--Makuuchi (Top Rank) Championship] for the first time in 5 years.
Terunofuji (he won his first Makuuchi Yusho as S1e in May 2015. Since then, due to injuries he descended all the way from Ozeki to Jonidan (5th Tier--professional in name only) and then after being completely sidelined for 4 Basho. He picked up the pieces and fought his way back to Makuuchi over the next 7. This Basho marks his return.
(Loose English translation of Google English Translation)
"That sort of thing [the battle for the Championship] will come later. Beyond my heartlessness [seeming lack of excitement about his position in the Basho?] I can see the 2nd gift [possibility of a 2nd Yusho--Makuuchi (Top Rank) Championship] for the first time in 5 years.
Terunofuji (he won his first Makuuchi Yusho as S1e in May 2015. Since then, due to injuries he descended all the way from Ozeki to Jonidan (5th Tier--professional in name only) and then after being completely sidelined for 4 Basho. He picked up the pieces and fought his way back to Makuuchi over the next 7. This Basho marks his return.
(Loose English translation of Google English Translation)
5. The Rookies (Note: My definition of Rookie is actually incorrect for this sport. A "Rookie" in Sumo is a Rikishi who is participating in his first Makuuchi (Top Tier) Basho. I have expanded that definition a bit in order to follow some new young talent.
Kotoshoho (Age 20, 6'3", 364 lbs) (M15e) (7-3) lost to Kaisei (Age 33, 6'5", 443 lbs) (M10e) (4-6). After making a strong impression, winning his 1st 5 Makuuchi matches, Kotoshoho has found the going much tougher lately, losing 3 of his last 5. Today's opponent was the biggest and tallest man in the Basho. Born in Brazil, Kaisei is a 14 year veteran who has reached Sekiwake once. He has settled into a role as a regular mid level Maegashira, having participated at that rank in 18 of the last 22 Basho (1 Komusubi and 3 Juryo). The high point of his career was the Jun-Yusho (2nd place--12-3 as M6) he won in the March 2018 Basho. He also won the Outstanding Performance Prize (Kanto-sho) for that Basho. He has earned Kachi-koshi in his last 2 Basho and needs a strong finish to keep that streak alive.
Finishing move: Pulling Under Arm Throw (Shitatedashinage)
Time: 18.1 seconds.
Wakatakakage (Age 25, 6'0", 273 lbs) (M14w) (6-4) defeated Takayasu (Age 30, 6'2" , 379 lbs) (M13e) (5-5). There are several ex-Ozeki in this Basho and Takayasu is one of them. He is a 15 year veteran who became Ozeki in July 2017, but has been plagued with injuries and missed parts or all of 6 Basho as Ozeki. He lost his Ozeki rank in November 2019 and had a poor Basho in January 2020, after which he was demoted from Sekiwake to M1. He suffered a serious injury on Day 4 of the March Basho and was unable to continue. He is now trying to fight his way back from M13. He needed this match badly for a leg up on a Kachi-koshi but it didn't work out for him today. It was one of those matches that was over in a flash. He charged at the Tachiai (initial charge), and Wakatakakage quickly moved to the side and helped him down when he lost his balance. It was one of the shortest matches of the Basho, 0.6 seconds. He still has a decent chance at Kachi-toshi (winning Tournament, needing 3 wins in his final 5 matches to get there.
Wakatakage continued his winning ways, with his 6th victory in the last 7 matches, and very little energy consumed. He is two wins away from a promotion.
Finishing move: Thrust Down (Tsukiotashi)
Time: 0.6 seconds
Kotonowaka (Age 22, 6'2" ,373 lbs) (M13w) (4-2-1 (forfeit)-3 absent, remained sidelined with the knee injury he suffered on Day 7. Whether he will return in this Basho is not known at this time.
6. Today's Juryo (2nd Tier) Substitute
Meisei (Age 25, 5'11", 326 lbs) (J1e) substituted for the second time in the Basho. He was the first Juryo substitute (see Day 3 below). He won his first Makuuchi (Top Rank match) but lost to Kotoeko (Age 28, 5'10", 287 lbs) (M16w) (7-3) today. Kotoeko is a 13 year veteran. It took him 11 years to to reach Makuuchi (Top Rank) status. His top rank has been M7, but on the back of two unfortunate Basho (November 2019 and January 2020--7-23), he dropped from M7 back to J5. He had an excellent Juryo Basho in March (11-4), which got him promoted to M16. He has enjoyed an excellent Basho that has taken him to the verge of Kachi-Koshi. 5 of his wins have come against higher ranked Maegashira. The other 2 have come against Juryo substitutes. He lost on Day 2 to 9-1 Terunofuji (M17e), but put up a valiant 19.9 second struggle. Hopefully, he will finish with a flourish and be promoted far enough so that Juryo will be a distant shore.
Meisei (see Day 3 Developments below), was demoted after the March 2020 Makuuchi Basho, finishing 7-8 from M17, so there was no place to go but Juryo. But he is having a very good Juryo Basho (6-4, which includes his split in 2 Makuuchi bouts, and which will surely be noted when judging who goes where in the next Banzuke [rankings]). As of today, he is one match behind the Juryo leaders. If he takes care of business, he should be back to Maegashira soon. How high he goes depends on how well he takes care of business.
Finishing move: Slap Down (Hatakikomi)
Time: 6.7 seconds.
+++
Day 9:
Results: (ALL ADDED JULY 27)
Kachi-Koshi (8 wins, a winning Tournament, Ms will be promoted, San'yaku--O, S,K have different rules for promotion)
Day 8: Hakuno (Y1e) 9-0; Asanoyama (O1w) 9-0
Day 9: Shodai (S1e) 8-1; Terunofuji (M17e) 8-1
Make-Koshi (8 losses--losing Tournament, Ms will be demoted, San'yaku have different rules of demotion)
Day 8: Yutakayama (M1w) 1-8; Onosho (M2w) 0-9
Day 9: None
Day 9 Results (Sumo Reference) (ADDED JULY 27)
Basho Cumulative Win-Loss Martrix (Sumo Reference) (ADDED JULY 27)
Day 9: July 27: Japanese Sumo Association (click on rikishi name for relevant
data including percentage of each Kimarite (finishing) move used, rank and full results of last 5 tournaments, all on one page) (ADDED JULY 27)
Daily Cumulative Results (Japan Times) (ADDED JULY 28)
Day 9 Time of Each Match: (nikkansports.com) (in Japanese, use Google Translate) Matches are in order from lowest rank to highest. Check against Sumo Reference above, which has matches in order from high to low. (ADDED JULY 27)
Top Rank:
Hakuko (Y1e) 9-0; Asanoyama (O1w) 9-0
Shodai (S1e) 8-1;
Mitakeumi (S1w) 7-2
Takakeisho (O1e) 6-3
Daieisho (K1e) 5-4
Okinoumi (K1w) 4-5
Others with 1 loss
Teranofuji (M17e) 8-1 (Ex Ozeki coming back from Jonidan [5th Tier])
Rookies:
Kotoshoho (M16e) 7-2
Wakatakakage (M14w) 5-4
Kotonowaka (M13w) 4-4-1 (Forfeited 8th match, missed 9th match due to knee injury suffered on Day 7
Articles:
Japan Times Day 9 Tournament Report (ADDED JULY 27)
Asanoyama cruising towards clash at July meet (Kyodo News--same story as JT, with different photo) (ADDED JULY 27)
(Nikkansports.com) (in Japanese, Use Google Translate) (ADDED JULY 27)
"I don't care about winning stars. I just try do do my sumo the best I can"
Asanoyama (Loose English Translation of English Google Translate).
Should he win the Basho, he would become the 9th Shin-Ozeki Yusho (win the Championship (Ozeki in his first Basho as an Ozeki) "in history". Whether that means the entire history of the Sport or the Modern era (since 1909), I do not know. In any event, it would be an historic win. The 9 consecutive opening wins was the 5th time that has been done by a Shin-Ozeki since 1990(?--I think that is what the translation said). (ADDED JULY 27)
Photos:
Asanoyama, the first win to recover 9 consecutive wins / 9th day photo feature (Nikkansports.com) (in Japanese--Use Google Translate)
Today's feature begins with a photo of Hakuho performing the Yokozuna Ring Entering Ceremony (NHK Sumopedia video--2:00 minutes) The rest of the feature contains photos from each match, in order, from lowest to highest rank, as can be seen in the Sumo Reference Day 9 Results above. That in turn, is followed by three photos of the opening ceremony.
Videos:
Day 9 video highlights (short highlights of all 21 matches, less than 30 minutes)
Developments of Interest: (All finishing moves will be linked to demonstration videos. Source for all match times is Nikkansports.com (Day 9) (Japanese, use Google Translate, but you can see the times. Bouts are from lowest to highest rank).
Note: Source for Rikishi Dimensions: Japan Sumo Association Database. Heights are rounded to the nearest inch, weights to the nearest pound.
1. Yokozuna action: Grand Champion Hakuho (Age 35, 6'4", 333 lbs) (Y1e--69th Yokozuna) (9-0) had his most difficult match to date against the giant Aoiyama (Age 34, 6'4", 426 lbs) (M4w) (3-6). Unable to move or get inside his massive Bulgarian born opponent , Hakuho simply waited for the inevitable slight loss of balance, and slapped him to the ground. It wasn't one of Hakuho's most aesthetic performances, or one of his most aggressive (he has bulled through several opponents in this Basho). And he was on the back foot quite a bit. But the result was the same, and he now has begun this Basho exactly as he began the March Basho. 9 consecutive wins. Hakuho had a 22-1 career record against Aoiyama, the one loss a forfeit due to injury.
Aoiyama's margin for error fell today. His 3rd consecutive loss means he needs 5 wins in his last 6 matches to avoid Make-Koshi.
Finishing move: Slap Down (Hatakikomi)
Time: 6.4 seconds
Hakuho's winning times so far (seconds) (all but one against Ms): 4.5; 2.4; 3.7; 2.8; 4.3, 2.8, 2.1, 4.1, and 6.4 seconds
Average: 3.67 seconds.(ADDED JULY 29)
2. Top Rank v Top Rank
There was one all San'yaku match today.
Asanoyama (Age 26, 6'2", 379 lbs) (O1w) (9-0) defeated Okinoumi (Age 34, 6'2", 353 lbs) (K1w) (4-5). This match was the first this Basho to require a rematch. Asanoyama appeared to throw Okinoumi out just before he went out, according to the Gyogi (referee). But the Judges called a Conference (Mono-ii) to talk it over. They also had access to replay officials. In the end, they deemed that both men hit the ground at the same time. An immediate rematch was ordered. This time there was no question. Asanoyama got his favorite left hand belt (mawashi) grip in both matches but was unable to stop Okinoumi counter-attacks in either. In both, Asanoyama was able to turn the tables and throw his opponent out of the dohyo (ring) as he was being pushed back. Asanoyama, with 9 consecutive wins in his opening Ozeki Basho, is now tied for 3rd most wins for a first time Ozeki. The record of 11 consecutive wins is held by Tochiazuma, who set it in the January 2002 Basho (which he went on to win with a 13-2 record) More importantly, Asanoyama remains tied with Hakuho at the top of the table.
Finishing move: Over Arm Throw (Uwatenage)
Time: (Rematch time only): 8.8 seconds.
Asanoyama's winning times so far (all but 2 against Ms, those 2 against Ks) (seconds):
3.7; 4.2; 7.4; 8.6; 69.0; 4.2; 4.5, 5.8 and 8.8
Average time: 12,91; Average time without the 69 second match: 5.9
3. The other Ozeki:
Takakeisho (Age 23, 5'9", 373 lbs) (O1e) (6-3) defeated Enho (Age 25, 5'7" , 212 lbs) (M6e) (4-5). In a controversial decision that led to the third Judge's Conference (mono-ii) of the day, Enho was ruled to have flown out of the dohyo (unrecoverable position even though he may have landed after Takakeisho stepped out before Enho's body touched the ground).The judges confirmed the Gyoji's (Referee's) original call. Takakeisho had the best of things for most of the match. It was a crucial victory for Takakeisho. He now needs 2 more wins in his last 6 matches to retain his Ozeki rank. He had a Make-koshi (losing record--7-8, in the March 2020 Basho. As a result of that, he is "on the bubble" in this Basho. Consecutive Make-koshis by an Ozeki result in demotion to Sekiwake and the beginning of a long arduous process of getting back up, which requires a minimum of 33 total wins in 3 consecutive Basho (occasionally there are exceptions, as with Asanoyama, who only won 11, 10, and 11 in his previous 3 Basho, but was promoted anyway on the basis of excellent performance (one of those was a Jun-Yusho (2nd place finish)
Enho has looked up and down this Basho, being manhandled some of the time (he was literally pancaked in one match) while using his speed, quickness, and agility to win at other times. He needs 4 more wins for Kachi-koshi and a ride up the Maegashira latter. He is the smallest by size and height of all the Makuuchi Rikishi (Top Tier) in this Basho. As a result of his great hustle and athleticism, he has quickly become a fan favorite.
Finishing move: Frontal Thrust Down (Tsukitaoshi)
Time: 4.2 seconds.
4. The Ozeki on the Comeback Trail (from Ozeki to Jonidan (5th Tier) and back.
Terunofuji (Age 28, 6'4", 397 lbs) (M17e) (8-1) defeated Sadanoumi (Age 33, 6'0", 309 lbs) (M12e) (4-5). Terunofuji easily defeated the 18 year veteran Sadonoumi to stay within 1 match of the leader. Sadounoumi needs 4 wins in his last 7 matches to earn Kachi-Koshi and break his 3 Basho Make-koshi (losing record) streak. Terunofuji has now sandwiched two 4 match winning streaks around is only loss. He also earned his Kachi-koshi within one match of the minimum, his first Makuuche Kachi-koshi in 3 years. But he is thinking bigger thoughts now.
"I'm happy I kept working hard. The Tournament is not over. I'm just glad to get the Kachi-koshi. I think this was my best match of the Tournament. I'll just concentrate and do what I can, and do my best."
Terunofuji: Post Match Intrerview.
Finishing move: Frontal Force Out (Yorikiri)
Time: 3.2 seconds
5. The Rookies (Note: My definition of Rookie is actually incorrect for this sport. A "Rookie" in Sumo is a Rikishi who is participating in his first Makuuchi (Top Tier) Basho. I have expanded that definition a bit in order to follow some new young talent.
Kotoshoho (Age 20, 6'3", 364 lbs) (M15e) (7-2) defeated Ikioi (Age 33, 6'4", 377 lbs) (M9w) (2-7). Ikioi had the advantage until Kotoshoho turned sideways and thrust him down and out. The TV commentators said it wasn't a "good win". Kotoshoho is now one win away from Kachi-koshi in his first Makuuchi (Top Tier) Basho. Ikioi has had a difficult Basho. He is coming off 2 consecutive Makuuchi Kachi-koshi, but is nowone defeat away from moving down the Maegashira ladder. He has been as high as S1 during a 16 year career.
Wakatakakage (Age 25, 6'0", 273 lbs) (M14w) (5-4) defeated Shimanomi (Age 31, 5'10", 355 lbs) (M11e) (2-7). Wakatakakage survived three brushes with defeat against the straw bales before turning the tables. It was a gritty performance that put him in a good position, needing 3 more wins in 7 more matches to earn Kachi-koshi (winning Tournament) in his 2nd Makuuchi Basho. Shimanoumi's prospects are dimmer. He is on the precipice of a Make-koshi (losing Tournament) which would be his 4th in his last 5 Basho. The 9 year veteran has reached as high as M6.
Finishing move: Frontal Force Out (Yorikiri)
Time: 13.3 seconds.
Kotonowaka (Age 22, 6'2" ,373 lbs) (M13w) (4-2-1 (forfeit)-2 absent, remained sidelined with the knee injury he suffered on Day 7. Whether he will return in this Basho is not known at this time.
6. Just How Difficult being a High M can be:
Yutakayama (Age 26, 6'1", 386 lbs) (M1w) (1-8) defeated Onosho (Age 24, 5'10", 342 lbs) (M2w) (0-9)
It should be stressed that these two Rikishi are very good. No one reaches M1 and M2 without being a good Rikishi. Yutakayama came into this Basho with a 3 Basho Kachi-koshi streak that promoted him from M16-M1 (his highest rank) (10-5, 8-7, 11-4, 8-7). Onosho earned Kachi-koshi in 3 of his last 4 Basho (34-26 overall), promoting him from M11 to M2. He earned a Kinboshi (Gold Star Win over Grand Champion Hakuho (Y1e), Hakuho's first loss, in the March 2020 Basho. He reached Komusubi before missing 21 consecutive matches, plunging him to Juryo (2nd Tier). Both these Rikishi, young, strong, and brimming with confidence...were crushed. Onosho lost all 7 of his matches to San'yako. Yutakayama lost all 6 of his matches to San'yako. His first 4 matches were against Ozeki, Grand Champion, Ozeki, and Sekiwake.
Every high ranked M faces this. A brutal 1st half schedule. In this case a well rested Grand Champion looking to win his 2nd consecutive Basho, 2 tremendously motivated (for opposite reasons) Ozeki, and two very tough Sekiwake. In this case, both high Ms ran into a perfect storm. Needless to say, they haven't shown their best Sumo, but confidence, along with bodies, can be broken. I hope both of these Rikishi will recover from this, but it is yet one more illustration of just how difficult it can be to climb the ladder in this sport.
Finishing move: Frontal Push Out (Oshidashi)
Time: 12.4 seconds.
7. Today's Juryo (2nd Tier) Substitute
Daiamami (Age 27, 6'1", 415 lbs) (J4e) lost to Kotoyuki (Age 29, 5'9", 390 lbs) (M17w) (3-6). This was a critical win for Kotoyuki, who has been as high as S1 in his 13 year career, but has been bouncing between Maegashira and Juryo for the last 18 Basho (3 years). He missed the entire January 2020 Basho and was demoted from M3 to J1. An 8-7 record in the March Basho got him back to M17. Two more defeats will send him back to Juryo. With the win today, 5 more wins will move him up the M ladder.
Finishing move: Frontal Thrust Out (Tsukidashi)
Time: 4.6 seconds.
+++
Day 8:
Kachi-Koshi (8 wins, winning Tournament, Ms will be promoted, San'yaku--O, S,K have different rules for promotion)
Hakuho (Y1e)--8-0); Asanoyama (O1w) (8-0)
Make Koshi (8 losses--losing Tournament, Ms will be demoted, San'yaku have different rules of demotion)
Yutakayama (M1w) 0-8; Onosho (M2w) 0-8
Top Rank:
Hakuho (Y1e) 8-0; Asanoyama (O1w) 8-0
Shodai (S1e) 7-1; Mitakeumi S1w) 7-1
Takakeisho (O1e) 5-3; Daieisho (K1e) 5-3
Okinoumi K1w (4-4)
Others with 1 loss
Teranofuji (M17e) 7-1 (Ex Ozeki coming back from Jonidan [5th Tier]
Rookies:
Kotoshoho (M15e) 6-2
Kotonowaka (M13w) 4-4 (forfeited 8th match after suffering knee injury in his 7th)
Wakatakakage (M14w) 4-4
Results:
Day 8 Results (Sumo Reference) (ADDED JULY 26, 2020)
Basho Cumulative Win-Loss Martrix (Sumo Reference) (ADDED JULY 27)
Day 8: July 26: Japanese Sumo Association (click on rikishi name for relevant
data including percentage of each Kimarite (finishing) move used, rank and full results of last 5 tournaments, all on one page) (ADDED JULY27)
Daily Cumulative Results (Japan Times) (ADDED JULY 28)
Day 8 Time of Each Match: (nikkansports.com) (in Japanese, use Google Translate) Matches are in order from lowest rank to highest. Check against Sumo Reference above, which has matches in order from high to low. (ADDED JULY 27)
Articles:
Japan Times Day 8 Tournament Report (ADDED JULY 27)
Hakuho, Asanoyama remain spotless in 2-way tie at July meet (Kyodo News--same story as JT, with different photos) (ADDED JULY 27)
In the same article:
"I don't think he is Shin-Ozeki (1st Basho as an Ozeki) anymore. He has been Sumo Wrestling like an Ozeki for two years. Shin-Ozeki is not appropriate."
Hakuho, when asked to comment on the performance of Asanoyama (O1w) in this Basho. (Loose English Translation of Google English Translation).
(ADDED JULY 27)
Photos:
Today's feature begins with a photo of Hakuho performing the Yokozuna Ring Entering Ceremony (NHK Sumopedia video--2:00 minutes) This is followed by a scoreboard photo which shows that Abi (M5e) will not be participating (see below under Day 7). The rest of the feature contains photos from each match, in order, from lowest to highest rank, as can be seen in the Sumo Reference Day 8 Results above. (ADDED JULY 27)
Videos: (ALL VIDEOS ADDED ON JULY 27)
Day 8 video highlights (short highlights of all 21 matches, less than 30 minutes)
Day 8 extended video highlights of selected matches: (about 50 minutes) shows in detail the ritual/psychological warfare that takes place before the match begins. There is about 4 minutes of this before every Makuuchi match. The books I have read all say that "real" Sumo fans watch this almost as closely as the matches themselves. You can see by the Gyojo's (Referee) body language when this posturing can take place, and when it ends.
Sumo Watch Update: Recap of the major events of the 1st Half of the Basho (about 3 minutes) (ADDED JULY 29)
Developments of Interest: (All finishing moves will be linked to demonstration videos. Source for all match times is Nikkansports.com (Day 8) (Japanese, use Google Translate, but you can see the times. Bouts are from lowest to highest rank).
Note: Source for Rikishi Dimensions: Japan Sumo Association Database. Heights are rounded to the nearest inch, weights to the nearest pound.
The Basho reached its half way point today.
1. Yokozuna action: Grand Champion Hakuho (Age 35, 6'4", 333 lbs) (Y1e--69th Yokozuna) achieved Kachi-koshi (8 wins--a winning Basho (Tournament) in the minimum amount of matches. This was the 50th time he has done that. In another dominant match he defeated Kagayaki (M4e) (3-5) and remained at the top of the table.
Finishing move: Slap Down (Hatikikomi)
Time: 4.1 seconds (his 3nd longest match)
Hakuho's winning times so far (seconds) (all but one against Ms): 4.5; 2.4; 3.7; 2.8; 4.3, 2.8, 2.1, and 4.1
Average: 3.34 seconds.
2. Top Rank v Top Rank
There was one all San'yaku match today.
Shodai (Age 28, 6'0", 364 lbs) (S1e) (7-1) defeated Mitakeumi (Age 27, 5'11",386 lbs) (S1w) (7-1) in a crucial match between the Sekiwake. The win knocked Mitakeumi from the ranks of the undefeated, leaving only Hakuho and Asanoyama unblemished. It also kept Shodai within a match of the lead. The two Rikishi had split 20 matches against each other going into this one. This was Shodai's 5th consecutive win.
Finishing move: Thrust Down (Tsukiotashi)
Time: 5.7 seconds
3. The 2 Ozeki
Asanoyama (Age 26, 6'2", 379 lbs) (O1e) (8-0) defeated Aioyama (Age 34, 6'4", 428 lbs) (M4w) (3-5) to remain undefeated, as well as achieve Kachi-koshi in his first Ozeki in the minimum amount of matches in his first Ozeki Basho.
Aioyama has been ranked as high as S1, but he has been San'yaku (Top Rank) only once since 2015. In March he had, arguably, the best Makuuchi Basho of his career, 11-4, and won Gino-sho (Technique Prize), advancing from M13w to M4w. He started out 3-3 in this Basho, but has lost his last 4, meaning that he is in danger of going down the Maegashira ladder. He needs to win 5 of his 2nd half matches to avoid that fate.
Finishing move: Frontal Force Out (Yorikiri)
Time: 5.8 seconds.
Asanoyama's winning times so far (seconds):
3.7; 4.2; 7.4; 8.6; 69.0; 4.2; 4.5, and 5.8
Average time: 13.43; Average time without the 69 second match: 5.49
Takakeisho (Age 23, 5'9", 373 lbs) (O1e) (5-3) lost to Hokutofuji (Age 28, 6'1",346 lbs)(M5w) (5-3) in a match that he very much needed to win. This match was over in an eye blink, a very disappointing performance. Takakeisho needs to win 3 more matches in order to keep his Ozeki rank. If he loses that rank he must begin an arduous process of achieving 3 consecutive Basho with a total of 33 wins to get it back. His schedule gets much more difficult in the 2nd half of the Basho.
Takakeisho had a 10-4 career record against Hokutofuji going into this match and Hokutofuji had lost his previous 2 matches in this Basho. He fell hard from K1 after a March Basho in which he finished 4-11. He has been yo yoyo-ing between K and high M for the last 7 Basho and went into this one with his lowest ranking since September of 2018. It will most likely take consecutive Kachi-koshi to get him back to San'yako. This could be the first. As far as Takakeisho goes, he has had some very good matches. He has also lost 2 of his 3 matches to M3 and M5 opponents. In the March Basho, his 7-8 Make-koshi included 5 losses to Maegashira.
Finishing move: Frontal Push Out (Oshidashi)
Time: 1.0 seconds.
4. The Ex-Ozeki on the Comeback Trail.
Terunofuji (Age 26, 6'2", 379 lbs) (M17e) (7-1) defeated Nishikigi (M16e) (2-6). This was perhaps his toughest win so far, his opponent putting up a tremendous struggle. It is perhaps not surprising that a relatively healthy and highly motivated Rikishi who has spent 9 consecutive Basho in what might be described, to use a baseball analogy, as the "low minors" following injuries that knocked him down from Ozeki, would be showing mostly dominating form against the low Ms he has been facing. Still, you can only fight the opposition that is on the other side of the dohyo (ring). He is riding a 5 match winning streak and has every chance of going into the late rounds of this Basho in serious contention. At that point, the rankings are thrown out and the best records face the best records. It is very possible that he may find himself in a late Basho match with Asanoyama, Hakuho, or both. But for now, its one match at a time.
Finishing move: Frontal Force Out (Yorikiri)
Time: 21.2 seconds.
5. The Rookies (Note: My definition of Rookie is actually incorrect for this sport. A "Rookie" in Sumo is a Rikishi who is participating in his first Makuuchi (Top Tier) Basho. I have expanded that definition a bit in order to follow some new young talent.
Kotoshoho (Age 20, 6'3", 364 lbs) (M15e) (6-2) lost to Sadanoumi (M12e) (4-4). This was Kotoshoho's 2nd defeat in the last 3 matches after blasting out of the blocks to a 6-0 start on his Maiden Makuuchi voyage. Welcome to the "Big Leagues." He fought a valiant almost 13 second match, but in the end, the experienced veteran (33 Makuuchi Basho, all but 3 as Maegashira) got the best of him. Sadanoumi is looking for 4 more wins to climb the M ladder. He has been as high as M1 and as low as M17. He has the additional incentive of breaking a 3 Basho Make-koshi (losing record) streak. In his 18th season as Rikishi, this was an important win for Sadanoumi. It was an excellent learning experience for the talented youngster.
Finishing move: Over Arm Throw (Uwatenage)
Time: 12.9 seconds.
Kotonowaka (Age 22, 6'2" ,373 lbs) (M13w) (4-3-1[Forfeit] forfeited his match to Tochinosin (M11w) (5-3). He suffered a left knee injury in his loss to Kaisei yesterday. The seriousness of his injury, and how long it will keep Kotonowaka out of action, is not known at this time.
Wakatakakage (Age 25, 6'0", 273 lbs) (M14w) (4-4) defeated Shohozan (M12w) (2-6). Wakatakakage is half-way to his goal of Kachi-Koshi and a climb up the Maegashira ladder. Every win is important now for Shohozan, as his last two Basho have yielded 11-19 and a drop from M7 to M12. A really bad finish might drop him to Juryo (2nd Tier) for the first time since September of 2015. He is in his 15th year as Rikishi and reached as high as K1 five times.
Finishing move: Frontal Push Out (Oshidashi)
Time: 2.6 seconds.
Today's Juryo (2nd Tier) Substitute: None
+++
Top Rank: (ALL BELOW ADDED JULY 25)
Hakuho (Y1e) 7-0; Asanoyama (O1w) 7-0; Mitakeumi (S1w) 7-0
Shodai (S1e) 6-1
Takakeisho (O1e) 5-2
Daieisho (K1e) 4-3
Okinoumi (K1w) 3-4
Others with 1 loss:
Myogiryu (M10w) 6-1; Kotoshoho (M15e) (Rookie) 6-1; Terunofuji (M17e) (ex-Ozeki trying to come back from Jonidan [5th Tier] 6-1
Rookies:
Kotoshoho (M15e) 6-1
Kotonowaka (M13w) 4-3
Wakatakage (M14w) 3-4 (lost to Terunofuji (see above and below) after 3 consecutive wins)
Results
Day 7 Results (Sumo Reference) (ADDED JULY 25)
Basho Cumulative Win-Loss Martrix (Sumo Reference) (ADDED JULY 25)
Day 7: July 25: Japanese Sumo Association (click on rikishi name for relevant
data including percentage of each Kimarite (finishing) move used, rank and full results of last 5 tournaments, all on one page) (ADDED JULY 25)
Daily Cumulative Results (Japan Times) (ADDED JULY 25, 2020)
Day 7 Time of Each Match: (nikkansports.com) (in Japanese, use Google Translate) Matches are in order from lowest rank to highest. Check against Sumo Reference above, which has matches in order from high to low. (ADDED JULY 25)
Articles:
Abi has been withdrawn from the Tournament and is slated to have a "polymerase chain reaction test" to determine if he tests positive for Covid-19.
Japan Times Day 7 Tournament Report (ADDED JULY 25)
Hakuho, Asanoyama remain in 3-way tie for lead July meet (Kyodo News--same story as JT, with different photos) (ADDED JULY 25)
A feature story on Asanoyama, the new Ozeki (O1w) who has started off with 7 consecutive victories. (ADDED JULY 25)
Photos:
Hakuho rolls Kiribayama to the bottom of the ring / 7th day photo feature (Nikkansports.com) (Japanese--use Google Translate) action photos from each match, in order, from lowest to highest rank, as can be seen in the Sumo Reference Day 7 Results above. The photo of the person with the banner in the middle of the dohyo (ring) is the announcement of Abi's forefeit (see article above).
Videos:
Day 7 Video highlights (short highlights of all 21 matches--NHK) (ADDED JULY 26 (Between 25 and 30 minutes)
Developments of Interest: (All finishing moves will be linked to demonstration videos. Source for all match times is Nikkansports.com (Day 7) (Japanese, use Google Translate, but you can see the times without it. Bouts are from lowest to highest rank).
Note: Source for Rikishi Dimensions: Japan Sumo Association Database. Heights are rounded to the nearest inch, weights to the nearest pound.
1. A milestone win: Kotoshogiku (Age 36, 5'11", 392 lbs) (M14e) (5-2), the oldest Rikishi in this Makuuchi Basho, defeated Nishikigi (M16e) (2-5). It was Kotoshogiku's 713th Makuuchi win, moving him into 7th place on the all time list, ahead of Harumafuji (70th Yokozuna, who wrestled from 2002-2017, and was Yokozuna from 2012-2017). Kotoshhogiku was Ozeki from November 2011-January 2017. He has had 1,473 matches in 111 Basho, with a career record of 822-655-38 (forfeits). His Career Makuuche (Top Tier) record is, as of today, 713-606-38 in 1,333 matches and 91 Basho. He has won 2 Yusho (Championships) and 6 Jun-Yusho (2nd place). Hakuho owns the most Makuuchi wins with 1,071.
Finishing move: Frontal Force Out (Yorikiri)
Time: 4.6 seconds.
2. Yokozuna action: Grand Champion Hakuho (Age 35, 6'4", 333 lbs) (Y1e--69th Yokozuna) rolled on, winning his 7th consecutive match over Kiribayama (Age 24, 6'1", 298 lbs) (M3w) (2-5). Kiribayama is a good up and coming Rikishi. He began his career in 2015 and was promoted to the Makuuche (Top Tier) Circuit for the January 2020 Basho. He began as M17e and has advanced to M3w in 2 Basho. His record as Maegashira is 24-15 through today's loss. To illustrate what a high ranking M has to face in the first week of a Tournament, here is his schedule for the first 7 matches (rankings only): Note: just a reminder, San'yaku (Top Rankers) are K,S,O, and Y.
K1e (L), K1w (L), M4e (W), S1e (L), O1w (L) (a 69 second marathon against then and still undefeated Asanoyama), O1e (W) (a victory over the other Ozeki, Takakeisho, who is "on the bubble" as an Ozeki and could lose his rank if he doesn't win 8 matches. Takakeisho outweighs Kiribayama by 75 pounds, yet K forced him out (Yorikiri) in 7.6 seconds--see Day 6 below). Y1e (L). That is the kind of running of the guantlet that every high ranking M has to deal with in the 1st half of a Basho. With a bit of luck, Kiribayama could have been 3-4 with victories over both Ozeki. Look for his record to improve in the 2nd half and keep an eye on this young talent. This is his first experience fighting San'yaku Rikishi. No one can predict the future, but I don't think it will be his last. Unfortunately, he was gobbled up by the Champion, just like everyone else on the menu so far.
Finishing move: Frontal Force Out (Yorikiri)
Time: 2.1 seconds.
Hakuho's winning times so far (seconds) (all but oone against Ms): 4.5; 2.4; 3.7; 2.8; 4.3, 2.8, and 2.1
Average: 3.23 seconds. Nuff said. Hakuho will face mostly San'yaku from here on. Kiribayama will face mostly Ms.
3. Top Rank v Top Rank
There was 1 match between San'yaku today:
Daieisho (K1e) (Age 26, 6'0", 362 lbs) (4-3) defeated Okinoumi (Age 34, 6'2", 353 lbs) (K1w) (3-4). This was an important match for both Rikishi, mostly in the context of their future ranking. K ranking is a very difficult transition in that the competition gets much more difficult than M. Most K's come from a winning Basho as a high M (Daieisho [M1--8-7], and Okinoumi [M2e--8-7]). In order to remain a Komusubi, the Rikishi must earn a Kachi-Koshi (winning record, at least 8 wins). This match allowed Daieisho to get one step closer to his goal, while it put a little more pressure on Okinoumi. Each of their schedules will get more difficult in the 2nd week and wins will be hard to come by. This one was precious for Daieisho. It also was sweet in another way. Daieisho has had a difficult time head to head against Okinoumi. He was 5-10 going into this match.
Finishing move: Frontal Force Out (Yorikiri)
Time: 7.1 seconds.
4. The 2 Ozeki
Asanoyama (Age 26, 6'2", 379 lbs) (O1e) (7-0) defeated Takarafuji (M3e) (2-5). Asanoyama in his first Basho as Ozeki, remained undefeated with this win. Takarafuji will feel more pressure to win and advance his ranking. He had visions of promotion to Komusubi with a good tournament. He will really have to perform well in the second half to avoid going down the Maegashira ladder.
Finishing move: Frontal Force Out (Yorikiri)
Time: 4.5 seconds. Asanoyama has now won 7 of 8 against Takarafuji.
Takakeisho (Age 23, 5'9", 373 lbs) (O1e) (5-2) moved one step closer to his goal of Kachi-koshi (8 wins) that will keep him at Ozeki level, beating Kagayaki (M4e) (3-4). If he doesn't get them, he will be demoted to Sekiwake and have to pass the grueling test of winning 33 matches in 3 Basho to get back to Ozeki. Though he is 2 matches behind the leaders, the most difficult part of his Basho is ahead of him in week 2. He is going through a remarkable test for one so young. Reaching Ozeki before 25 is quite an achievement. He is looking to stay there.
Finishing move: Frontal Thrust Down (Tsukiotashi)
Time: 4.8 seconds.
5. The other undefeated San'yako
Mitakeumi (Age 27, 5'11", 386 lbs (S1w) (7-0), in the shadow of the Asanoyama-Kakuho story, remained undefeated with a forfeit win over Abi (M5e) (3-4). Abi's story is one of the more disappointing ones in this Basho (see above under "Articles"). Whether or not he will be allowed back into the Basho if he tests negative is unknown at this time.
6. The Rookies and the ex-Ozeki on the Comeback Trail
Kotoshoho (Age 20, 6'3", 364 lbs) (M15e) (6-1) bounced back from his loss yesterday with a win over Shimanoumi (2-5) to stay within reach of the leaders. Also of great importance is the fact that he is now 2 wins away from Kachi-Koshi in his 1st Makuuche Basho. How far up the Maegashira ladder he goes will be determined by how many matches he wins. It is very rare for a low ranked Maegashira to win a Basho. But Tokoshoryu (Age 33, 5'11', 414 lbs (M7w) did exactly that as M17w in the January 2020 Basho (14-1, with wins over Shodai (M4w at the time) and Takakeisho (O1e). The amazing saga of this win, a "Cinderella" story on many levels, is concisely told in his Wikipedia Biography.
Finishing move: Underarm Throw (Shitatenage)
Time: 8.0 seconds
Kotonowaka (Age 22, 6'2" ,373 lbs) (M13w) (4-3) lost to Kaisei (M10e) (3-4). Unfortunately Kotonowaka came down hard on his left knee at the end of the match. It is hoped that it was not a serious injury
Wakatakakage (Age 25, 6'0", 273 lbs) (M14w) (3-4) lost to Terunofuji (Age 28, 6'4", 397 lbs) (M17e) (6-1), the one time Ozeki who dropped as far as Jonidan (5th Tier) due to a number of injuries. Terunofuji is the "feel good" story of this Basho, and he kept himself in contention for Yusho (Championship). For Wakatakakage, a 3 match winning streak came to an end. For the 2nd time in this Basho, Terunofuji won with a powerful, painful move (see Day 4 below). Having your opponent get under your arms and then crushing them against you while he lifts you out out of the dohyo (ring) cannot be a pleasant experience.
Finishing move: Arm Barring Forceout (Kimedashi)
Time: 5.7 seconds
7. Today's Juryo (2nd Tier) Substitute: Kyokushuko (Age 31, 6'2", 337 lbs) (J3w), a 13 year veteran who has been as high as M4, but has been yo yoing up and down the Juryo ranks for the last 3 years, lost to Chiyomaryu (Age 29, 5'10", 419 lbs (M15w) (1-6). They both began their careers in May of 2007. They both may be back together in Juryo in September.
+++
Day 6:
Top Rank: (ALL BELOW ADDED JULY 24, 2020)
Hakuko (Y1e) 6-0;Asanoyama (O1w 6-0); Mitakeumi (S1w) 6-0
Shodai (S1e) 5-1
Takakeisho (O1e) 4-2
Daieisho (K1e) 3-3
Okinoumi (K1w) 3-3
Other undefeated: None
First loss:
Myogiryu (M10w) 5-1; Kotoshoho (M15e) 5-1
Rookies:
Kotoshoho (M15e) 5-1
Kotonowaka (M13w) 4-2
Wakatakakage (M14w) 3-3 (has won 3 in a row)
Ozeki comeback from Jonidan (5th tier)
Terunofuji (M17e) 5-1 (defeated Kotoshoho today)
Results:
Day 6 July 24 Results (Sumo Reference) (ADDED JULY 24, 2020)
Basho Cumulative Win-Loss Martrix (Sumo Reference) (ADDED JULY 24)
Day 6: July 24: Japanese Sumo Association (click on rikishi name for relevant
data including percentage of each Kimarite (finishing) move used, rank and full results of last 5 tournaments, all on one page) (ADDED July 24)
Daily Cumulative Results (Japan Times) (ADDED JULY 24, 2020)
Day 6 Time of Each Match: (nikkansports.com) (in Japanese, use Google Translate) Matches are in order from lowest rank to highest. Check against Sumo Reference above, which has matches in order from high to low. (ADDED JULY 24)
Japan Times Day 6 Tournament Report (ADDED JULY 24)
Hakuho remains undefeated as leading group shrinks to 3 (Kyodo News--same story as JT, with different photos) (ADDED JULY 24)
Kiribayama (M3w--2-4)defeats Ozeki (Takakeisho--(O1e--4-2)and blooms with "surveillance" of Tsururyu (now defunct stable?) (Nikkansports.com) (in Japanese--use Google Translate)
A feature story on Kiribayama, who yesterday took Asanoyama (O1w) to the limit before losing a 1 minute 9 second struggle, and today beat the other Ozeki in 7.6 seconds. (ADDED JULY 24)
Photos:
Hakuho, Asanoyama, and Mitakeumi protect all wins / 6th day photo feature (Nikkansports.com) (Japanese--use Google Translate) action photos from each match, in order, from highest to lowest rank, as can be seen in the Sumo Reference Day 6 Results above.
Video:
Day 6 Video highlights (short highlights of all 21 matches--NHK) (ADDED JULY 25 (Between 25 and 30 minutes)
Developments of Interest: (All finishing moves will be linked to demonstration videos. Source for all match times is Nikkansports.com (Day 6) (Japanese, use Google Translate, but you can see the times. Bouts are from lowest to highest rank). (ALL ADDED JULY 26)
Note: Source for Rikishi Dimensions: Japan Sumo Association Database. Heights are rounded to the nearest inch, weights to the nearest pound.
ALL OF THE BELOW DEVELOPMENTS WERE ADDED ON JULY 26
1. Yokozuna action: Grand Champion Hakuho (Age 35, 6'4", 333 lbs) (Y1e--69th Yokozuna) continued his march through this Basho (Tournament) with his 6th consecutive win, an easy victory over Takarafuji (M3e) (2-4). Hakuho is beginning this Basho as he began the last one in March. In that Basho he won his first 9 matches before losing to 2 Rank and Filers and being forced at 12-2, to battle his fellow Yokozuna (Kakuryu--Y1w--12-2 (71st Yokozuna--who bowed out of this Basho after aggravating an elbow injury on Day1) in a winner take all final bout (NHK Youtube). It was an epic 24.3 second struggle finally won by the Grand Champion, one of the best matches you will see.
In his first 6 matches Hakuho has faced 1 San'yaku (Okinoumi--K1w) on Day 1, and then 5 Maegashira (Rank and Filers). This is how Basho are set up, with the best match ups held off until the second week. Hakuho is expected to win these early matches, which he has, but in this Basho he has been particularly dominant. One indicator of dominance is, in my opinion, the duration time of the matches. So far his victories have come in these times (seconds): 4.5; 2.4; 3.7; 2.8; 4.3, and 2.8. That is an average of 3.35 seconds per match. While many matches last less than 5 seconds, to average less than 4 over this duration, no matter what the level of competition, is remarkable.
Hakuho has had a difficult time the last 2 years, missing 3 entire Basho and not being able to finish 4 others (absence from Basho is usually due to injury). In the Basho in which he returned after these 7 he went: 11-4; 15-0 (Champion--Yusho--his 41st); 10-4-1(forfeited Day 15 match); 15-0 (Yusho--his 42nd); 12-3 (2nd Place--Jun-Yusho--his 22nd); 14-1 (Yusho--his 43nd); and 13-2 (Yusho--his 44th). To put some context on these numbers, Hakuho has 12 more career Yusho in Makuuchi Basho (Top Rank Tournaments) than the Rikishi with the 2nd most Yusho, Taiho (48th Yokozuna--1961-1971), and 13 more than the 3rd, Chionofuji (58th Yokozuna--1970-1981). Hakuho entered this Basho with 4 months of rest.
Next week, the road gets much more difficult, (matches againsst all all the other San'yaku--with the exception of Kakuryu). It will be interesting to see how many he wins and how dominant he remains.
Finishing move: Frontal Push Out (Oshidashi)
Time: 2.8 seconds.
2. Top rank v Top Rank
There was one all San'yaku match today:
Mitakeumi (Age 27, 5'11",386 lbs (S1w) (6-0) defeated Okinoumi (Age 34, 6'2", 353 lbs) (K1w) (3-3). Mitakeumi quietly kept his perfect record. This is the fourth time he has been promoted to Sekiwake. This promotion came as result of an excellent 10-5 record as M3w in the March Basho. Half of his wins came against San'yaku. The record would have been even more impressive but for the fact he lost his last two matches to lower ranked Maegashira. He was demoted to Komusubi after 7-8 finishes but dropped all the way from S1 to M3 after a 6-9 Basho. Two more wins (kachi-koshi--a winning Basho, will keep him at his present rank. In addition to being a top contender in this Basho, he has the more far reaching goal of 11 or more wins in three consecutive basho for promotion to Ozeki.
In the last 7 years, Okinoumi has reached Sekiwake rank twice (he had to pull out of both Basho and was demoted to Maegashira). He has reached Komusubi rank 3 times. Twice he was demoted back to M after one Basho. This is his 3rd time. The highlight of his career was the 2 Kinboshi (Gold Star Wins by Ms over Yokozunas) he earned in the September 2016 Baho (he was M1e at the time and earned a promotion directly to S1 as a result--going right back to M after a poor performance in the November 2016 Basho). He has participated in 26 of his last 29 Basho as a M. He needs 5 more wins when wins will be more difficult, to avoid another demotion to Juryo.
Finishing move: Frontal Thrust Down (Tsukiotashi)
Time: 7.9 seconds.
3. The 2 Ozeki
Asanoyama (Age 26, 6'2", 379 lbs), the new Ozeki (01w) won his 6th match in a row, beating Onosho (M2w) (0-6). He, like Hakuho, has had matches with 1 san'yaku (Daieisho (K1e on Day 4) and 5 Maegashira. He has not been quite as dominant as Hakuho (see above), needing to pull 1 match "out of the fire" at the very end and winning a titanic 69 second struggle with Kiribayama (M3w) on Day 5. His winning times have been (seconds): 3.7; 4.2; 7.4; 8.6; 69.0; and 4.2, for an average time of 16.18 seconds. If you remove the 69 second match, the average is 5.62. His road also gets more difficult next week, but no one can argue with his start, and he is 2 victories away from kachi-koshi (winning Tournament) which would keep his rank. But right now, he is concentrating on Yusho in his 1st Ozeki performance.
Onosho has a different predicament. He was promoted to M2w from M5w as result of an excellent March Basho during which he earned a Kinboshi (Gold Star win by a Rank and Filer over a Yokozuna--handing Hakuho his first defeat on Day 10) and finished with a 10-5 record. He has been Komusubi once but has bounced up and down in the M ranks for the last 11 Basho. This Basho was an opportunity for him to move back to K, but his performance thus far indicates that may have been a bridge too far. He now needs to have an excellent 2nd half in order to keep his rank where it is. That too may be a bridge too far.
Finishing move: Frontal Force Out (Yorikiri)
Time: 4.2 seconds.
Takakeisho (Age 23, 5'9", 373 lbs) (O1e) (4-2) lost his 2nd match of this Basho, to Kiribayama (M3w) (2-4), the Rikishi who came within an eyelash of defeating the 2 Ozeki on consecutive days. He is still in good shape to get the 4 wins he needs for Kachi-koshi, but the loss hurt his Yusho chances. Kiribayama, who reached Maegashira level for the first time in his 5 year career after an 11-4 (1 forfeit win) in the November 2019 Basho, is finding the road of a high M more difficult after a 20-10 start in his last two Basho. But judging by his performance the last two days, he has potential. How much potential remains to be seen.
Finishing move: Frontal Force Out
Time: 7.6 seconds.
4. The Rookies and the ex Ozeki on the Comeback Trail
Kotoshoho (Age 20, 6'3", 364 lbs) (M15e) suffered his 1st loss (5-1) in Maakuuchi Basho (Top Rank Tournaments). He lost to Terunofuji (Age 28, 6'4", 397 lbs) (M17e) (5-1), the one time Ozeki who dropped as far as Jonidan (5th Tier) due to a number of injuries. In the last 3 years Terunofuji has completely missed 4 consecutive Basho and been missed full participation in 4 others (3 of which he was unable to finish). After the 4th consecutive complete absence he dropped to his lowest rating (Jd48), his lowest ranking since his 3rd professional Basho in September 2011 (Jd59), when he was on the way up. From Jd48, he rapidly rose through the ranks, going 55-10 in 7 Basho (5 of which were 7 match Basho), and getting his promotion to Makuushi Basho for this Tournament. He has to follow the normal trajectory of advancement, but so far, he looks like he needs a higher ranking than he has. He showed that today, handling the young flash who was taking the Basho by storm.
Finishing move; Frontal Force Out (Yorikiri)
Time: 10.6 seconds
Kotonowaka (Age 22, 6'2" ,373 lbs) (M13w) (4-2) broke his 2 match losing streak with a win over Chyomaryu (M15w) (0-6). Chyomaryu has been Maegashira in 16 of the last 19 Basho but he needs to begin winning quickly in order to avoid demotion to Juryo (2nd Tier) after this Basho.
Finishing move: Frontal Push Out (Oshidashi)
Time: 4.1 seconds
Wakatakakage (Age 25, 6'0", 273 lbs) ( (M14w) (3-3), one of the Juryo promotions for this Basho, won his 3rd consecutive match over Sadanoumi (M12e) 2-4. Sadanoumi needs to win 6 of his remaining 9 matches to avoid demotion.
Finishing move: Slap Down (Hatakikomi)
Time: 0.7 seconds
5. Today's Juryo Substitute
Azumaryu (Age 33, 6'4" , 346 lbs)(J3e) defeated Nishikigi (M16e) (2-4). This was the 2nd time in 4 days that a substitute has won in this Basho The other was Meisei on Day 3. Both of these Rikishi (M16e and M17e respectively in the March Basho) were demoted to Juryo after 5-10 and 7-8 records respectively. Which says something about Nishikigi's predicament. At his ranking, there is no place to go but down to Juryo unless he wins 6 of his final 9 matches. He has been an M since July of 2017, rising as high as M2. He has dropped to Juryo only once since then.
Finishing move: Frontal Force Out (Yorikiri)
Time: 10.5 seconds)
+++
Day 5:
Top Rank (ALL BELOW ADDED JULY 23, 2020)
Hakuho (Y1e) 5-0; Asanoyama (O1w) 5-0; Mitakeumi (S1w) 5-0
Takakeisho (O1e) 4-1; Shodai (S1e) 4-1
Daieisho (K1e) 3-2; Okinoumi (K1w) 3-2
Other Undefeated:
Myogiryu (M10w) 5-0, Kotoshoho (Rookie) (M15e) 5-0
Other Rookies:
Kotonowaka (M13w) 3-2
Wakatakage (M14w) 2-3
Ozeki comeback from Jonidan (5th Tier)
Terunofuji (M17e) 4-1
Day 5 Results (Sumo Reference) (ADDED JULY 23, 2020)
Basho Cumulative Win-Loss Martrix (Sumo Reference) (ADDED JULY 23)
Day 5: July 23: Japanese Sumo Association (click on rikishi name for relevant
data including percentage of each Kimarite (finishing) move used, rank and full results of last 5 tournaments, all on one page) (ADDED July 23)
Daily Cumulative Results (Japan Times) (ADDED JULY 23, 2020)
Day 5 Time of Each Match: (nikkansports.com) (in Japanese, use Google Translate) Matches are in order from lowest rank to highest. Check against Sumo Reference above, which has matches in order from high to low. (ADDED JULY 23)
Articles:
Japan Times Day 5 Tournament Report (ADDED JULY 23)
Hakuho, Asanoyama stay undefeated in 5-way tie for leadmeet (Kyodo News--same story as JT, with different photos) (ADDED JULY 23)
Asanoyama for the fifth consecutive victory "I want to convey courage and excitement on the ring" (Nikkansports.com, in Japanese, use Google Translate) (ADDED JULY 23)
Photos:
Hakuho and Asanoyama all win Terunofuji 1 loss/5th day photo feature
(Nikkansports.com) (in Japanese--use Google Translate) (ADDED JULY 24)
Note: Photos begin with opening ceremonies and a celebrity commentator. These are followed with action photos from each match, in order, from lowest to highest rank, as can be seen in the Sumo Reference Day 5 Results above.
Videos:
Day 5 Video highlights (short highlights of all 21 matches--NHK) (ADDED JULY 24) (Between 25 and 30 minutes)
Developments of Interest: Developments of Interest: (All finishing moves will be linked to demonstration videos. Source for all match times is Nikkansports.com (Day 5) (Japanese, use Google Translate, but you can see the times. Bouts are from lowest to highest rank). (ALL ADDED JULY 24)
1. Yokozuna action: Grand Champion Hakuho (Y1e) continued his impressive performance (5-0) with an effortless win over Onosho (M2w) (0-5). It was a bit of payback for one of the 2 losses he suffered (NHK Youtube) while winning the March Basho. At the time Onosho was M7w. It was his 2nd Kinboshi (Gold Star Win--win by a rank and filer over a Yokozuna) in 18 Makuuchi (Top Rank) Basho (Tournaments). He finished that Basho at 9-6, was promoted 5 ranks up the Maegashira ladder for this Basho, and has found the going difficult against the tougher schedule he faces.
Finishing move: Pulling Over Arm Throw (Uwatedashinage)
Time: 4.3 seconds
Times of Hakuho matches (seconds): 4.5; 2.4; 3.7; 2.8; 4.3
2. Top Rank v Top Rank
Shodai (S1e) (4-1) defeated Okinoumi (K1w) (3-2) in today's only match between top rankers. Shodai kept his Sekiwake ranking after the March Basho by winning 3 consecutive matches after starting 5-6 (he finished 8-7). One of those matches was a victory over Yokozuna Grand Master Hakuho, on Day 12. He also got off to a very good start in that Basho, winning 3 of his first 4 before losing 5 of his next 7. Okinoumi, a 16 year veteran with 60 Makuuchi Basho (Top Tier Tournaments) under his belt, was promoted from M2 to San'yaku (Top Rank--Komusubi) as result of an 8-7 March Basho (as M2e). He started the March Basho slowly, losing 4 of his first 5 matches, before winning 7 of his last 10, including a win over Shodai. This is the 5th time he has been promoted to Komusubi, possibly the most difficult rank in the sport. Maegashira (rank and file who make up about 80% of the contestants in Makuuchi Basho, fight mostly each other. Komusubi, the lowest of the top rankers, usually have to fight about half their matches against other San'yaku, all but one of which are against higher ranked Rikishi.
Finishing move: Beltless Arm Throw (Sukuinage)
Time: 3.8 seconds.
2. The 2 Ozeki
Asanoyama (01w), in his first Basho as Ozeki, won his 5th consecutive match, but it was quite a struggle. It took 1 minute 9 seconds to finally subdue Kiribayama (M3w) 1-4.
Finishing move: Frontal Force Out (Yorikiri)
Takakeisho (01e), Kadoban ("on the bubble" after a losing record in the March Basho [make--pronounced mockee-koshi--like kosher])--7-8), who must win at least 8 matches (kachi-koshi--winning Basho) in order to avoid demotion, began with 4 impressive wins. Today he lost his first match, to Tarakafuji (M3e) (2-3).
Finishing move: Slap Down (Hatakikomi)
Time: 14.3 seconds
3. The Rookies.
Kotoshoho (M15e) continued his impressive debut in Makuuchi by winning his 5th consecutive match in domant fashion over Shohozan (M12w) (0-5).
Finishing move: Arm Lock Throw (Kotenage)
Time: 2.3 seconds
To get an idea of just how impressive Kotoshoho's start has been, here are the times of his 5 wins (all in seconds):
3.0; 23.3 (against fellow Rookie Wakatakakage); 4.2; 8.2; 2.3.
Kotonowaka (M13w) lost his 2nd consecutive match after winning his first three. He was beaten in a grueling contest by one of the hottest Rikishi in the Basho, Myogiryu (M10w) (5-0). Myogiryu, an 11 year veteran of 49 Makuuchi Basho, who has risen as high as Sekiwake, is coming off an unimpressive performance in the January and March Basho. He was 9-21, dropping from M1 to M10. A silver lining in his 5-10 January Basho was 2 Kinboshi (Gold Star Wins), one over each Yokozuna (Hakuho and Kakaryu, on consecutive days), showing that he can be a very good wrestler. He has 6 career Kinboshi.
Finishing move: Frontal Pushout (Oshidashi)
Time: 23.5 seconds
Wakatakakage (M14w) began the Tournament with 3 consecutive losses. He has followed that with 2 wins (including 1 over Kotonowaka). Today he defeated Kotoyuki (M17w) (1-4).
Finishing move: Frontal Pushout (Oshidashi)
Time: 10.5 seconds
4. The Ozeki on the Come Back Trail:
Terunofuji (M17E), a sentimental favorite in this Basho due to the fact that he is back in Makuuchi after serious injury dropped him as far as Jonidan (5th Tier), began with 4 consecutive wins. Today, in another grueling match, the streak ended with a defeat by Takayasu (M13e) (3-2).
Finishing move: Frontal Force Out (Yorikiri)
Time: 26.2 seconds.
5. Today's substitute.
The third substitute from Juryo (2nd Tier Tournament) in 3 days, Tobizaru (J2e) got his first taste of Makuuchi action, losing to Kotoeko (M16w) (4-1).
Finishing move: Beltless Arm Throw (Sukuinage).
Time: 8.0 seconds.
The substitutions are due to the withdrawal of Yokozuna (Y1w) Kakuryu after aggravating an elbow injury on Day 1.
+++
Day 4:
Top Rank: (ALL BELOW ADDED JULY 22)
Hakuho (Y1e) 4-0; Asanoyama (O1w) 4-0; Mitakeumi (S1W) 4-0
Takakeisho (O1e) 3-1; Shodai (S1e) 3-1; Okinoumi (K1w) 3-1
Daieisho (K1e) 2-2
Other undefeated:
Myogiryu (M10w) 4-0; Kotoshohu (Rookie) (M15e) 4-0; Terunofuji (M17e) (Ex-Ozeki on the long comeback trail from Jonidan (5th Division) 4-0
Other Rookie: Kotonowaka (M13w) 3-1
Day 4 Results (Sumo Reference) (ADDED JULY 22, 2020)
Basho Cumulative Win-Loss Martrix (Sumo Reference) (ADDED JULY 22)
Day 4: July 22: Japanese Sumo Association (click on rikishi name for relevant
data including percentage of each Kimarite (finishing) move used, rank and full results of last 5 tournaments, all on one page) (ADDED July 22)
Daily Cumulative Results (Japan Times) (ADDED JULY 22, 2020)
Day 4 Time of Each Match: (nikkansports.com) (in Japanese, use Google Translate) Matches are in order from lowest rank to highest. Check against Sumo Reference above, which has matches in order from high to low. (ADDED JULY 24)
Articles
Japan Times Day 4 Tournament Report (ADDED JULY 22)
Hakuho, Asanoyama stay perfect on Day 4 of July meet (Kyodo News--same story as JT, with photos) (ADDED JULY 22)
Photos:
Hakuko and Asanoyama win all four victories in a row! /Day 4 photo feature (Nikkansports.com) (in Japanese--use Google Translate) (ADDED JULY 22)
Note: Photos begin with opening ceremonies and are followed with action photos from each match, in order, from lowest to highest rank, as can be seen in the Sumo Reference Day 4 Results above.
Videos:
Day 4 Video highlights (short highlights of all 21 matches--NHK) (ADDED JULY 23) (Between 25 and 30 minutes)
Developments of Interest: (All finishing moves will be linked to demonstration videos. Source for all match times is Nikkansports.com (Day 4) (Japanese, use Google Translate, but you can see the times. Bouts are from lowest to highest rank).
1. Yokozuna action: Grand Champion Hakuko (Y1e) continued his winning ways with an easy victory over Takanasho (M2e) (1-3). He won by Frontal Thrust Down (Tsukiotoshi). His win times thus far have been: 4.5; 2.4; 3.7; and 2.8 seconds. He has won 4 matches with 4 different winning moves (Kimarite) see Developments of Interest--Day 3 below). The only San'yaku (Y,O,S,K Top Rankers) he faced was on opening day. That is usually how things are scheduled, with the more difficult matches coming deeper in the tournaments. But of course you can only compete against who is on the schedule. Hakuho has looked devastating to this point. (ADDED JULY 22).
2. Today' s substitute for Kakuryu was Chyoshoma (J[uryo]--2nd tier-1w) (0-4). He is an 11 year veteran who's highest rank was M[aegashira] 2 and has been in 17 Makuuchi (Top Tier) Tournaments. He was no match for Terunofuji (M17e) (4-0), trying to fight his way back from Jonidan (5th Tier) after rising as high as Ozeki. Terunofuji, in the first bout of the day, easily defeated him by an Arm Barring Forceout (Kimedashi) in a painful 21.4 seconds. Chyoshoma began his career in 2009 at 88 kilograms (194 lbs). His present weight, according to NHK, is 135 kilograms (298 lbs). (ADDED JULY 23)
The 2 Ozeki: (ADDED JULY 23)
Asanoyama (O1w) in his first basho as an Ozeki, won again, running his record to 4-0. In the only bout of the day that featured to san'yaku (Top Rankers) he beat Daieisho (K1e).
Finising move: Rear Push Out (Okuridashi)
Time: 8.6 seconds
Takakeisho (23) (O1e), Ozeki since age 22 (demoted once after injury but then immediately reinstated and who--if he can stay healthy, seems to have an unlimited ceiling), who needs 8 wins (kachi-koshi) to remain an Ozeki, defeated Endo (M1e) (1-3). With the win, T is now 3-1.
Finishing move: Frontal Pushout (Oshidashi)
Time: 9.0 seconds
The Rookies: (ADDED JULY 23)
Kotoshoho (M15e), (4-0), the youngest contestant (20), in his first Makuuchi (top tier) Tournament, continued his remarkable success, with a victory over Takayasu (M13e) (2-2) (who was an Ozeki for 15 Basho).
Finishing move: Slap Down (Hatakikomi)
Time: 8.2 seconds
Kotonowaka (M13w) (3-1), (12-7 overall in Makuuchi Tournaments), at 22 the 2nd youngest contestant, in only his 19th match at this level, lost his first in this Basho to Watatakakage (M14w) (1-3), who is also, like Kotonowaka, in only his 2nd Makuuchi Basho. He debuted in Makuuchi in the November 2019 Basho, but was injured after winning his first 4 matches and demoted back to Juryo for the next two Bashos, where he went 19-11. That earned him this promotion. At 25, he is the the third Rookie in this Basho. He is now 5-4 in Makuuchi Bashos.
Finishing move: Frontal Force Out (Yorikiri).
Time: 9.1 seconds
+++
Day 3:
Top Rank:
Hakuho (Y1e) 3-0, Asanoyama (O1w) 3-0; Mitakeumi (S1w) 3-0
Takakeisho (O1e) 2-1, Shodai (S1e) 2-1, Daieisho (K1e) 2-1, Okinoumi (K1w) 2-1
Others at the top of the table:
Tamawashi (M9e) 3-0, Miogiru (M10w) 3-0, Kotonowaka (M13w) (Rookie--see developments of interest below) 3-0, Kotoshoho (M15e) (Rookie--see developments of interest below), 3-0 Terunofuji (M17e) (comeback from way back--see developments of interest below) 3-0 (ALL ADDED JULY 21, 2020)
Results:
Day 3 Results--July 21: (Sumo Reference)--includes Standings--see left side of the page (ADDED JULY 21, 2020)
Basho Cumulative Win-Loss Martrix (Sumo Reference) (ADDED JULY 21, 2020)
Day 3: July 21: Japanese Sumo Association (ADDED JULY 21, 2020)
Daily Cumulative Results (Japan Times) (ADDED JULY 22, 2020)
Day 3 Time of Each Match: (nikkansports.com) (in Japanese, use Google Translate) Matches are in order from lowest rank to highest. Check against Sumo Reference above, which has matches in order from high to low. (ADDED JULY 24)
Articles:
Japan Times Day 3 Tournament Report (ADDED JULY 21, 2020)
Hakuho, Asanoyama claim 3rd straight wins at July meet (Kyodo News)--same story as JT, different photos. (ADDED JULY 21, 2020)
Photos:
Ura (Ms[akushita]19E wins with a rare hand twist! In a series of photos/3rd day photo feature (Nikkansport.com) (Japanese, use Google Translate)(ADDED JULY 22)
Note: Today's Nikkansport Photo Features leads with series of 5 photos from a Makushita Tournament (3rd Tier) match. Ura, a rikishi who has been as high as M[aegashira)] 4 in the top tier but who was injured in the Septembr 2017 Makuuchi (Top Tier Tournament) and out until September of 2018, and then suffered another injury that kept him out from January-September of 2019 (knee injuries, from the looks of the strapping he wears) won this match with a very rare finishing move: a Head Twisting Throw (Kubihineri) (NHK Techniques of Sumo video).
After those photos, there are action photos of each Makuuchi match. They are in descending rank order (from Y1 to M17). See the Sumo Reference Results page above to follow.
Videos
Day 3 Video highlights (short highlights of all 21 matches--NHK) (ADDED JULY 22) (Between 25 and 30 minutes)
Developments of Interest: (All finishing moves will be linked to demonstration videos). Source for all match times is Nikkansports.com (Day 3) (Japanese, use Google Translate, but you can see the times. Bouts are from lowest to highest rank).
1. Yokuzuna action: After a difficult win on Opening day (4.5 seconds) with a match turning Under Shoulder Swing Down (Katasukashi) against Okinoumi (K1w), Grand Champion Hakuho's (Y1e) last two wins have come by quick opening power moves (6.1 seconds combined).
His Day 2 win came against Yutakayama (M1w) with an Overarm Throw (Uwatenage) (2.4 seconds). And on Day 3 he beat Endo (M1e) with a Frontal Pushout (Oshidashi). Time: 3.7 seconds. (ADDED JULY 22)
2. The 2 Ozeki:
Asanoyama (O1w), beginning his Ozeki term, remained undefeated (3-0) with a win over Yutakayama (M1w) (0-3). He won with a Frontal Force Out with a Mawashi [belt] Grip (Yorikiri), the most employed finishing move (Kimarite). Time: 7.4 seconds. (ADDED JULY 22)
Takakeisho (O1e) (3-0) moved within 5 of his goal of 8 wins to remain Ozeki by defeating Okinoumi (K1w) (2-1). He is a power rikishi and won with a power move: Frontal Push Down (Oshitaoshi). Time 3.4 seconds. (ADDED JULY 22)
3. Ex-Ozeki on the comeback trail.
Teranofuji (M17e), finally back in the Top Rank after being exiled as far down as Jonidan (5th Tier) since March of 2018, continued his positive showing, with his 3rd consecutive win. He defeated Chiyomaru (M15w) (0-3).
Finishing Move (Kamarite): Overarm Throw (Uwatenage)
Time: 9.2 seconds. (ADDED JULY 22)
4. The Rookies. Both rookies remained undefeated.
Kotonowaka (M13w) (3-0) defeated Watatakakage (M14w) (0-3)
Finishing Move (Kamarite): Frontal Pushout (Oshidashi)
Time: 3.3 seconds.
Kotoshohu (M15e) (3-0) defeated Nishikigi (M16e) (1-2)
Finishing Move: (Kamarite): Frontal Pushout (Oshidashi). Time: 4.2 seconds. (ADDED JULY 22)
5. Meisei (Juryo [Second Tier] 1e) will substitute for the injured Kakuryu (Y1w) t He was 2-0 in the Juryo Tournament and was demoted back to Juryo from Makuuchi (Top Tier). He will be fighting a lower ranked M (rank and filer) schedule. His record will be available in the Juryo statistics. (ADDED JULY 21, 2020). The replacement is indeterminate and can change from day to day (See Day 4 above). (corrected July 22, 2020).
+++
Day 2:
Top Rank: Hakuho (Y1e) 2-0, Asanoyama (O1w) 2-0; Takakeisho (O1e) 2-0, Shodai (S1e) 2-0, Mitakeumi (S1w) 2-0, Daishio (K1e) 2-0
Okinoumi (K1w) 1-1
Kakuryu (Y1w) 0-2--dropped out of Tournament due to injury
Rookies: Kotonowaka (M13w) 2-0; Kotoshoho (M15e) 2-0
Results:
Day 2: July 20: (Sumo Reference)--includes Standings--see left side of the page
Basho Cumulative Win-Loss Martrix (Sumo Reference)
Day 2: July 20: Japanese Sumo Association Japanese Sumo Association (click on rikishi name for relevant data including percentage of each Kimarite (finishing) move used, rank and full results of last 5 tournaments, all on one page)
Daily Cumulative Results (Japan Times)
Day 2 Time of Each Match: (nikkansports.com) (in Japanese, use Google Translate) Matches are in order from lowest rank to highest. Check against Sumo Reference above, which has matches in order from high to low. (ADDED JULY 24)
Articles:
Yokozuna Kakuryu pulls out of July meet with elbow injury (Kyodo News, July 20, 2020).
Feature article: Asanoyama rushes to win two consecutive wins. "Rope jumping" effect gives him a solid waist (nikkansports.com) (Article is in Japanese--Use Google Translate for English). (ADDED JULY 21)
Japan Times Day 2 Tournament Report
Asanoyama, Hakuho impress on Day 2 of July meet(Kyodo News, July 20, 2020)--Same story as JT, different photo. (ADDED JULY 21)
Photos:
Various interesting Day 2 action photos (Nikkansports.com) (in Japanese--use Google Translate). (ADDED JULY 22)
Note especially Terutsuyoshi (M[aegashira] 7e), who throws more salt (a ring [dohyo] purification ritual) before a single match than most other rikishi throw in a whole Tournament.
Videos:
.Day 2 Video highlights (short highlights of all 21 matches--NHK) (ADDED JULY 21, 2020) (Between 25 and 30 minutes)
Developments of interest. (2-5 BELOW ADDED JULY 21, 2020) (All finishing moves will be linked to demonstration videos). Source for all match times is Nikkansports.com (Day 2) (Japanese, use Google Translate, but you can see the times. Bouts are from lowest to highest rank).
1. Yokozuna Kakuryu (Y1w) was forced to drop out of the Tournament due to an elbow injury suffered in his opening day loss (see below). He has struggled with injuries recently but had a terrific March Basho, winning 8 in a row to battle Yokozuna Grand Champion Hakuho in a knock down drag out 24.3 second battle (NHK Youtube) for the Emporer's Cup (see below under March Basho). He is a great rikishi and hopefully he will be back in action soon.
2. Yokozuna action: The only Yokozuna left in the tournament, Grand Champion Hakuko (Y1e), had a dominant win over Yutakayama (M1w), a statement of intent--an underarm throw (Oshidashi). Time: 2.4 seconds. The Champion is now 2-0, looking in ominous form very early.
3. The two Ozeki's. Asanoyama (O1w) dominated Endo (M1e) to go to 2-0. He won easily with a Frontal Force Out (with a Mawashi [belt] grip) (Yorikiri). Time: 4.2 seconds.
Meanwhile Takakeisho (O1e), Kadoban (will be demoted unless he wins 8 matches in this tournament) took care of his business by defeating Onosho (M2w) with a deft dodge followed by an almost dismissive shoulder slap down (Hatakikomi). Time: 4.1 seconds. T is now 2-0.
4. Terunofuji (M17), a 2 year Ozeki coming back on the long trail from injuries that dropped him all the way to the Jonidan (5th) Division (where Sumo are only receiving room and board), and a sentimental favorite in this Basho, raised his record to 2-0 with a hard earned win after a long struggle (19.9 seconds) over Kotoeko (M16w). A Yorikiri forceout after a long stalemate won the match.
5. The Rookies: 20 year old Kotoshoko (M15e) went to 2-0 with a win over Wakatakakage (M14w) (23.3 seconds) by snatching victory from an almost certain defeat with a desperation Frontal Thrust Down (Tsukiotashi) just as he was about to go out.
22 year old Kotanowaka (M13w) beat Sadonoumi (M12e) ran his overall Makuuchi--Top Division tournament record to 12-6 and is now 2-0. He overpowered his opponent with a Frontal Push Out (Oshidashi). Time: 6.7 seconds).
+++
Day 1
Top Rank: Hakuho (Y1e) 1-0; Asanoyama (O1w) 1-0, Takakeisho (O1e) 1-0, Shodai (S1e) 1-0, Mitakeumi (S1w) 1-0, Daieisho (K1e) 1-0...
Top Rank defeats: Kakuru (Y1w) 0-1, Okinoumi (K1w) 0-1
Rookies: Kotonowaka (M13w) 1-0, Kotoshoho (M15e) 1-0
Results:
Day 1: July 19: (Sumo Reference)--includes Standings--see left side of the page
Basho Cumulative Win-Loss Martrix (Sumo Reference)
Day 1: July 19: Japanese Sumo Association Japanese Sumo Association (click on rikishi name for relevant data including percentage of each Kimarite (finishing) move used, rank and full results of last 5 tournaments, all on one page)
Daily Cumulative Results (Japan Times)
Day 1 Time of Each Match: (nikkansports.com) (in Japanese, use Google Translate) Matches are in order from lowest rank to highest. Check against Sumo Reference above, which has matches in order from high to low. (ADDED JULY 24)
Articles:
Japan Times Day 1 Tournament Report
Hakuho survives, Kakuryu falls on Day 1 of July meet (Kyodo News)--same story as JT, different photos.
Face-masked fans attend 1st day of tournament in 6 months (Reuters via Asahi Shimbun, July 19, 2020)
Video:
Day 1Video highlights (short highlights of all 21 matches--NHK) (Between 25 and 30 minutes)
Day 1 Video highlights (longer highlights from selected matches, with selected interviews (English translations--NHK) (It is unkown how long these highlights will be available). (About 50 minutes)
Day 1 Bout of the Day: Takakeisho (O[zeki]1e) v Yutakayama(M[aegashira]1w) (NHK) (REMOVED JULY 21, 2020)
Developments of interest:
For the first time since the Japan Sumo Association began keeping records of finishing moves in 1955, a Yokozuna lost a match with a losing move. Kakuryu lost his match against Endo (M1e) when he went for a leg trip and literally swung and missed, losing his balance and falling on his elbow. The Yokozuna lost by "koshikudake" (inadvertent collapse). It is unkown at this time if M1 Endo receives credit for a Kinboshi (victory by a "rank and filer" over a Yokozuna), since he didn't actually win the match. Endo was credited with a Kinboshi. (ADDED JULY 31).
New Ozeki (1w) Asanoyama won his first match since promotion with a decisive victory over M2e Takanosho.
Ozeki (1e) Takakeisho, "on the bubble" (must achieve "kachi-koshi--a winning tournament--at least 8 wins) to maintain his Ozeki ranking. If he doesn't, he will be relegated to S(ekiwake). He cannot be relegated more than that from Ozeki, and will have to win 33 matches in 3 tournaments to regain Ozeki rank. He is now "kadoban".) won his first match decisively against Yutakayama (M1w) by oshidashi (frontal push out).
Rookies.
1. Kotonowaka (M13w up from M18e after a 9-6 debut in March, won his first match against M13e Takayasu (demoted from M1w after pulling out of the March Tournament with an injury. Takayasu is on long road back from various injuries after being a successful Ozeki from from 7/2017-11/2019.
2. 20 year old Kotoshoho (M15e) made his Makuuchi debut. Just promoted after winning the Juryo Basho in March, he opened his account with a win over Chiomaryu (M15w).
==========================
==========================
==========================
May 2020 Basho (Tokyo--Natsu Basho)
This year's Natsu Basho was cancelled due to the Covid-19 Pandemic.
==========================
==========================
==========================
==========================
==========================
To get me started on my Sumo adventure I decided I would try to pick the winners of Sumo matches. The data I used was:
A. Rank
B. Record in this tournament
C. Record in the last 3 matches of this Tournament
D. Career record against the day's opponent.
E. Physical dimensions.
All of this data can be found in Sumo Reference.
Using these variables and watching the matches, (141 as of the end of D11), I kept track of how I was doing. I have no standard to measure how well I am doing, but it adds a bit of spice to watching these wonderful matches. And I am learning as I go. As of Day 11 my "record" was 72-48 (.600) for individual matches (the numbers don't add up because of recusals--matches I accidentally found out the results of while stumbling around Sumo Reference). I can only assume that that is a poor percentage, given my experience. It sure is fun, though. My "Day" record is 7 (more winners than losers predicted on the day)-1. (I began the exercise on D 3).
Here are my results for Day 15, with comments. Results for Day 11-14 are below Day 15. For Days 3-10, I kept records but did not do daily reports.
* indicates the match was notable for one reason or another. Almost all of my * matches are available through early April via the daily NHK highlights. Note that NHK does not do the highlights for all matches. The matches are in order but not numbered like they are below. You may be able to find a site that has all matches and their numbers. Good luck. I will not link directly to the matches, only to the NHK page above that has all the highlights for all days.
Enjoy.
NOTE: At the bottom of each Day report, you will find the following cumulative statistics:
Number of wins for each finishing move;
Number of wins by the heavier contestant against the lighter one;
Record <300 pounds and >399 pounds;
Total cumulative match time, average match time; shortest and longest match.
+++
NOTE: Below all of the result reports (Day 11-15), you will find a complete FINAL SUMMARY for the entire Tournament.
Won-loss records (split out by kachi-koshi--winning records and make-koshi--losing records)
A running condensed "line score" (with numbers rather than the traditional circles and filled in circles) and biggest winning and losing streaks for each Rikishi (wrestler).
For the those with 10 wins or more, finishing moves (won and lost) and schedules.
=============================
=============================
D 15
Day 15 Photo Gallery: 26 photos (Nikkansports.com)
An exciting though unattended Tournament came to a conclusion with a great final match, the first Tournament deciding 15th match between two Yokozuna in 7 years (Harmafuji [14-1] defeated Hakuho [13-2]) to win the 2013 Kyushu (November) Tournament. And the other two major questions asked in this tournament were answered
A. Hahkuho won his 44th Tournament, 12 more than Taiho (video of each win in his 45 match winning streak between 1968 and 1969), the Yokozuna who won the 2nd most, and 13 more than the Yokozuna who won the 3rd most, Chiyonofuji (highlight reel) (who won 53 matches in a row in 1988). Hakuho, by the way, won 63 in a row in 2010, 2nd most of all time to Futobayama, (match video from 1939) who won 69 in a row from 1936-1939.
He won it in an exhausting 24.3 second match with the other Yokozuna, Kakuryu. The two of them had the longest winning streaks in the Tournamnent, 9 and 8 respectively.
Match article (Asahi.com) (English)
Match article (Japan Times) (English)
Feature article (Japan Times). (English) Stresses the "feel" of a Basho (Tournament) in an empty arena.
Feature article (Japan Times) (English) Interesting article that discusses the "stable" system of Rishiki (Wrestler) training and management, and suggests the idea of Rikishi moving from stable to stable ("free agency").
B. S(ekiwaki) 1 Asanoyama finished 11-4. He was eliminated from Championship contention on Day 14 by Yokozuna1-Ozeki Kakuryu in a long and difficult match when the original Gyoji's (referee) decision was overturned by the judges (mono-ii). It was a match he had dominated much of, to no avail. It meant that he couldn't achieve the 33 wins in 3 consecutive Basho (Tournaments) that would guarantee his promotion to Ozeki (2nd highest rank). He won his final match against Ozeki Takakeisho. A couple of day's later the Sumo Association promoted him citing "commendations on the quality of his Sumo." (Japan Times). He had an excellent Tournament, and now there are 2 Ozeki in Makuuchi again after the retirement of Goeido after the January Tournament.
Promotion article (Japan Times)
Promotion article (Asahi.com) (Japanese--use Google Translate)
C. As Asanoyama was being promoted, the other Ozeki, Takakeisho was having a different experience. He had a difficult Tournament and the loss to Asanoyama left him with a make-koshi (losing record) at 7-8. He must now achieve a kachi-koshi (winning record) in his next Tournament or he will be relegated to S(ekiwaki).
In addition, there were 4 matches with kachi-kochi on the line. The winners, who will most likely move up in rank were Okinoumi (M2); Yutakayama (M3), and Kagayaki (M6).
On Day 15 the higher ranked Rikishi went 9-11 against the lower.
San'Yaku (Top Ranked Rikishi)
Yokozuna 1-1
Ozeki 0-1
Sekiwaki 1-1
Komusubi 0-2
====================
My record for the day was 11-7. My Day record for the Tournament was 9 wins; 3 losses; 1 tie and 2 days I didn't participate. I have tried to pick winners for 249 matches from Day 3 to Day 15 (minus recusals--matches where I found out the outcome before I watched the match). My individual match record was 144-105 (.578).
D3--10-9; D4--14-7; D5--10-9 (2 forfeits); D6--13-7; D7--8-9 (3 recused); D8-- 15-2 (3 recused); D9--14-5 (1 recused); D10--11-9; D11--11-8 (1 recused);
D12--8-12; D13--10-10; D14--9-11; D15--11-7 (2 recused)
I have no idea how I pulled off D4, D6, D8 and D9, but I think it was after D9 that I figured out I was an expert and this was easy. I was 60-57 after I realized how good I was at this stuff :) :)
====================
My Day 15 linescore.
Key:
Line 1: Match Number: Higher Rank W; Lower Rank W; My running record for the day.
Line 2-3: Rikishi v Rikishi (Bold=winner; Bold=loser; Italics=my pick). Next to each Rikishi:
A. Rank
B. Dimensions (height, weight, age)
C. Record to date in the Tournament
D. Record in the last 3 matches before this one (D 11-13 in this case) in chronological order from earliest to most recent: +(won) over R or -(lost) to R where R is ranking--all Ms are listed as numbers only--note that numbers can repeat, as there are generally 2 for each rank
E. Head to head career record before this match
Line 4: Finishing move (in Japanese and translated, with some further explained)
Line 5: Time of the match
Comments.
Note that Rikishi are in the order of what side of the dohyo (ring) they entered. Top is East, bottom is West (I think :) )
Links to information about the Rikishi is available at the NHK Sumo Page
Career information is available at SR (click on the Rikishi link or link from Hanbasho (Tournament) information available on the page.).
Note: All descriptions and opinions below (D 11-15) are mine. They are my subjective impressions of what I saw. I am new at this. Your descriptions may be different. Feedback is always welcome.
jbsolock1@gmail.com
Note: Match times were originally estimated. Since then I have found sources match times: Source: Nikkansports.com (Asahi Shimbun). Japanese, I used Google Translate for a while, but then it was easier not to translate.
Photo Gallery from Day 15 (Nikkansports.com)
+++
1. H 1 L 0; 0-1
Aoiyama (M13); 6'3", 425, 33; 11-3--11-4; (+3-9-Y): 4-3
Ishiura (M12); 5'9", 243, 30; 8-6--9-6; (-9-16-17);3-4
Finishing move: Yorikiri Frontal Force Out--(with a mawashi [belt] grip)
Time: 15.5 seconds
Ishiura finished his excellent Tournament on a high note, ending a 4 match losing streak by taking the initiative from start to finish, looking for one thing or another, until he found what he was looking for. Bulgarian born Aoiyama was reactive and seemed to have a strategy that sheer bulk could wear down speed and quickness. Ishiura won the tachi-ai (initial charge) and got inside and underneath Aioyama. Aioyama had a moment where he pulled Ishiura in, but that didn't last. Ishiura used one of Aoiyama's arms to gain leverage, spin him around, grab his mawashi again and force him out. This match might have been anti-climactic for Aoiyama after losing the previous 2 matches and being eliminated from Championship contention. It was a disappointing end to an excellent Tournament performance. On the heels of 3 consecutive hanbasho (Top Tournaments) make-koshi (5-10, 6-9, and 4-11: 15-30) which dropped his ranking from M1 to M5 to M8, to M13, he made a pretty emphatic statement and stopped the free fall.
2. H 2 L 0; 1-1
Daiamami (M17); 6'0", 412; 27; 5-8--5-9; (+10-10-7); 3-2
Terutsuyoshi (M11); 5'7", 265, 25; 8-5--9-5; (+16+17-5); 2-3
Finishiing move: Yorikiri Frontal Force Out (with a mawashi [belt] grip
Time: 15.4 seconds
For the second time in two matches, the far smaller man won (total weight of the winners v losers: 508 pounds v 837 pounds), but this time the strategy was different. Whereas Ishiura won with speed and quickness, Terutsuyoshi won with power and strength. Against a Rikishi that outweighed him by 147 pounds. Terutsuyoshi went high, up under Daiamami's arms, and pushed. It looked like he would push him out quickly but Daiamami lodged his feet against the tawara (rice straw bales) (the flexing of his calf muscles can be clearly seen), and eventually lifted his opponent and carried him to the middle. While there was a moment of stalemate, Terutsuyoshi was able to move his feet back and untangle from the arm position he was still in. He then lowered his arms and double gripped Daiamami's mawashi (belt). Using this second tactic, he then forced Diamami back. When the big man lodged his feet against the bales a second time, Terutsuyoshi lifted him up...and out. The momentum of the force out and the weight of Daiamami tumbled both men out of the dohyo (ring). Terutsuyoshi ended a very well wrestled Tournament by winning 5 of his last 6 matches. Daiamami, who spent his last 4 Tournaments in the Juryo Division (2nd Tier) before an 11-4 Tournament brought him back to M, will most likely be going back to the May Juryo Tournament.
3. H 2 L 1 2-1
Chiyotairyu (M11); 5'11",423, 31; 8-6--8-7;(-14-17+13); 2-2
Shimanoumi (M16); 5'10',364, 30; 8-6--9-6;(+8+12+12); 2-2
Finishing move: Oshidashi--Frontal Push Out
Time: 7.8 seconds
Chiyotairyu began with a head slap and turned Shimanoumi around. He pushed down hard on Shimanoumi's head but couldn't get him to yield. They kept turning and Shimanoumi tried to get under Chiyotairyu's arms. Four times Chiyotairyu batted his hands away, going further back toward the tawara (rice straw bales) each time. Finally, Shimanoumi pushed him out. Shimanoumi, who was headed for demotion, possibly to the Juryo (2nd Tier) ranks, at 4-6, magnificently turned his Tournament around by finishing with 5 consecutive wins, all over opponents ranked above him. Chiyotairyu, in spite of the loss, should either remain at his present rank or move up somewhat.
4. H 2 L 2; 2-2
Sadanoumi (M10) 6'0",322, 32; 6-8--6-9; (+16+17-8); 7-9
Nishikigi (M14) 6'1",397, 29; 5-9--6-9; (+13+6-18); 9-7
Finishing move: Tsuridashi--Frontal Lift Out
Time: 8.2 seconds
On Day 14 Sadanoumi used great hand positioning and quickness to win over a smaller opponent (Shohozan (M8-Match #7--see below). Nishkigi, an opponent 91 pounds heavier than Shohozan, must have taken notice, He quickly immobilized Sadanoumi's arms by getting under them while Sadanoumi was trying to establish a mawashi (belt) grip.. Then he grabbed him by the back of his mawashi, turned him around and, in an ultimate power move, picked him up off the ground and walked him out of the dohyo (ring). Then he very gently put him down. It was the end of a sub-par Tournament for both of them.
5. H 2 L 3; 2-3
Kotonowaka:(M18); 6'2", 381, 22; 8-6--9-6;(-12-12+14); 0-0
Tochinosin (M9); 6'3", 390, 32, 6-8--6-9; (-15-13+3); 0-0
Finishing move: Uwatehineri--Twisting Overarm Throw
Time: 1 minute, 2 seconds
This was a long,long battle that started out as a thrust, push, and slap fest and ended with a clinch that seemed to last forever. The gist of it was Georgian born Tochinosin trying to get at Kotonowaka's mawashi (belt) and Kotonowaka, balancing himself with his feet far back and his upper body almost parallel to the dohyo (ring) floor to avoid that. Finally, Kotonowaka was able to lock Tohchinosin's arm and spin him around. But neither Rikishi had the strength to drive the other out. So, after a period of stasis, Kotonowaka was able to grab Tochinosin's mawashi and throw him. Tochinosin appeared to injure himself when he landed on his already heavily taped left knee. Kotonowaka showed concern but Tochinosin was able to rise under his own power.
In sumo, I am learning, a match that lasts a minute is a very long match. These athletes are not built for long term endurance. They are too big, and receive and mete out far too much punishment for that. In this match 22 year old Kotonowaka was limber enough to keep 32 year old Tochinochin from his main objective and, in the end, had a little more "gas left in the tank". He finished a great debut tournament with 9 wins. He started out 7-2, then lost 4 in a row, but then came back to win his last 2 and earn a kachi-koshi. Tochinosin wrestled well at times during the Tournament, but one must wonder how much his knee was bothering him throughout the 15 day grind.
6. * H 3 L 3; 2-4
Meisei (M17); 5'10",331, 24; 7-7--7-8; (-11+11+12); 3-0
Kagayaki (M6); 6'4", 366, 25; 7-7--8-7; (+2-K1-K1); 0-3
Finishing move: Tsudikashi--Frontal Thrust Out
Time: 8 seconds
In the first of 4 matches that would determine last day kachi-koshi, this match was all push and thrust from beginning to end. It started out even, but inexorably, Kagayaki gained the advantage. Meisei used his speed to escape a couple of times, but ultimately to no avail. Meisei's future rank will be interesting to see. He was M17 in this Tournament, but that is a little misleading. In the last 5 tournaments he bounced from M4 to M10 to M2 to M5. In the last tournament he was 1-7-7 and was dropped to M17. Normally, a 7-8 record might warrant a demotion to Juryo (2nd tier).However, in this case...we will have to wait and see.
7. H 3 L 4 3-4
Myogiryu (M6); 6'2", 346, 33; 4-10--4-11 (-2-14-4); 14-14
Tochiozan (M10); 6'2", 344, 33; 2-12--3-12;(-17-15+16);14-14
Finishing move: Okuritaoshi--Rear Push Down
Time: 2 seconds.
Tochiozan, after losing his first 10 matches, finished by winning 3 of 5 including this one, where he was able to grab the back of Myogiru's mawashi, quickly spin and then push him down. Myogiryu had a difficult tournament, losing his last 5 in a row, and 6 of his last 8.
8. H 4 L 4; 4-4
Ryuden (M5); 6'3" 340; 29; 5-9--6-9;((-S1+K1-1); 5-4
Azumaryu (M16); 6'3", 362, 32; 5-9--5-10;(-10-7-10); 4-5
Finishing move: Yorikiri Frontal Force Out (with a mawashi [belt] grip)
Time: 16.9 seconds
Ryuden began by winning the tachi-ai (initial charge), going high and driving Mongolian born Azumaryu back to the tawara (rice straw bales). Azumaryu lodged his feet against the bales and seemed to almost use them as a launching pad as he moved Ryuden back. At that point it became a search for the mawashi by both contestants. They both had mawashi grips and Azumaryu had a short lived advantage. But then Ryuden turned the tables and drove Azumaryu out. Both still had firm grips on each other's mawashi at the end. Neither Rikishi had a stellar tournament, but, while Ryuden will lose rank but still be an M, Azumayru's fate is a little more clouded. Two tournaments ago he came up from Juryo (to M15 on the back of an 11-4 Juryo Tournament finish). In his last tournament he was 7-8 to drop to M16. This tournament may send him back to Juryo. He had a decent tournament until the last 5 matches, each of which he lost.
9. H 5 L 4; 5-4
Kaisei (M14);6'4" 441, 32; 8-6--8-7; (+8-8-2); 2-3
Abi (M4);6'1", 342, 25; 6-8--7-8; (-3-S1+K1);3-2
Finishing move: Oshidashi--Frontal Push Out
Time: 2.9 seconds
Brazilian born Kaisei charged at the tachi-ai, but Abi side stepped him. He then pulled him near the tawara (rice straw bales). Kaisei was losing his balance at the bales when Abi pushed him out.
What is interesting about this match up is that it demonstrates how much more difficult a road it is to travel for a high ranked M than a low ranked M. Kaisei finished with a well earned kachi-koshi, the heart of which was a 5 match winning streak. Abi finished with a make-koshi. 8-7 to 7-8. Beginning at Day 5 (an arbitrary starting point, but one from which I had data--for matches before that I didn't look at Sumo Reference for fear of finding out results) here are Kaisei and Abi's results and opponents:
Kaisei 2-2; (3-2; M16); (3-3; M16); (3-4; M18); (4-4; M11) (5-4 M17); (6-4 M12); (7-4; M11); (8-4; M8); (8-5; M8); (8-6; M2) (8-7 M4)
Abi: 2-2 (3-2; M6); (3-3; M2); (4-3; K1); (4-4; Y); (4-5 Y1-O); (4-6; M1); (5-6; O); (5-7; M3); (6-7; S1); (6-8; K1); (7-8; M14)
The highest ranked Rikishi in this set that Kaisei fought was M2 (who he lost to). He fought 6 M10 or lower Rikishi The lowest ranked Rikishi that Abi fought was M6. Abi fought 6 san'yaku (Championship ranked--K,S,O,Y), including both Yokozunas. Perhaps this is one of the reasons that Sumo Reference lists results by rank rather than by record. And perhaps this is also one of the reasons that what happened in January (an M17 winning the Championship) has happened twice in the last 40 years.
10. H 6 L 4; 6-4
Enho (M4); 5'6",218, 25; 5-9--6-9;(-K1+1-6); 0-0
Ikioi (M12); 6'4",390, 33; 8-6--8-7;(+7+18-16);0-0
Finishing move: Shitatenage--Underarm Throw
Time: 4 seconds.
Enho finished off his tournament in style with a brilliant win against Ikioi. He charged into Ikioi higher than he usually does, and bounced off him. Ikioi kept coming and pushed him away while trying to grip his mawashi (belt). This gave Enho the space to work with his right arm. The arm gripped Ikioi's mawashi. Enho also got underneath Ikioi's arm with his other arm. In one motion he then spun his opponent, who outweighed him by 178 pounds, down, and out. It was one of the most beautiful finishing moves I have seen in my short time following the sport. As to the larger context of this win, see #9 above. Without going into specifics, the same pattern emerges. Many were wondering how Enho, who has become a crowd favorite (judging from the matches I saw in the January Tournament), would do against much stiffer competition. He took his knocks, to be sure, but he also had his moments. He is an electric Rikishi who uses speed and quickness. He is a joy to watch. Still, this Tournament broke a 4 tournament kachi-koshi streak. Ikioi, who earned a kachi-koshi on the back of 3 consecutive wins (5-5--8-5), had a successful tournament.
11. H 6 L 5; 6-5
Onosho (M5);5'10",346, 23; 8-6--9-6; (+1+11-O); 1-4
Mitakeumi (M3);5'11",386, 27; 10-4--10-5;(-13+7-9); 4-1
Finishing move: Oshidashi--Frontal Push Out
Time: 6 seconds
In a battle fought mostly upstairs, Onosho took the initiative and drove Mitakeumi to the tawara (rice straw bales), and out. Onosho had an excellent tournament, which he concluded by winning 3 of his last 4 matches. The highlight of his tournament was, of course his Kinboshi (Gold Star Win) over Yokozuna Grand Champion Hakuho, his 3rd career Kinboshi (his others were over Yokozuna Grand Champion Harumafuji in consecutive Tournaments in 2017, using the hatakikomi--slap down, in the first 2 wins, and his favorite finisher, the oshidashi--frontal push out--37% of his career wins, against Hakuho). Mitakeumi had an excellent tournament and was in Championship contention until he lost to Aioyama (M13--who was leading the Tournament at the time) on Day 12. Mitakeumi ended up losing 3 of his last 4 matches.
12.* H 7 L 5; 7-5
Yutakayama (M3); 6'0", 395, 26; 7-7--8-7; (+4-2-9); 5-2
Chiyomaru (M15);5'11",428, 28;7-5-2--7-6-2;(+9+10-11); 2-5
Finishing move: Tsukiotashi--Thrust Down
Time: 8.9 seconds
Mono-ii: Judges conference: resulted in a gyoji gunbai sashichigae (reversal of gyoji [referee] decision).
The 2nd of 4 kachi-koshi matches was decided by a razor thin margin. Both Rikishi went high to begin with, searching for an under arm advantage. After some skirmishing and turning Yutakayama was able to get the left arm and shoulder of Chiyomara. He then continued to turn him and thrust him down, just as his (Y's) foot was landing outside the dohyo (ring). The Gyoji gave the decision to Chiyomaru, but the judges reversed the call, ruling that Chiyumaru was out before Y's foot hit the ground.
Yutakayama traveled a winding road to get to his kachi-koshi destination. After he split his first 4 matches these were his results:
(2-3--Y1/O); (2-4--Y); (2-5--M1); (3-5--S1); (4-5--O); (5-5--M6); (6-5--M7); (7-5--M4); (7-6--M2); (7-7--M9); (8-7--M15)
At the heart of his 5 match winning streak was his Day 8 victory over Asanoyama (S1). In spite of a murderous stretch of 5 matches against Rikishi that were higher than he in the rankings, including 4 against san'yaku (K,S,O,Y), during which he lost back to back matches against both Yokozuna, he was able to turn things around by beating possibly the most motivated opponent in the Tournament. Asanoyama, after all, needed 12 wins for Ozeki promotion. Yutakayama followed that with a win over an admittedly slumping Ozeki Takakeisho. 3 more victories against lower ranked Rikishi had him in the "driver's seat." But he stumbled twice to set up this match.
Chiyomaru had a winning tournament but not a kachi-koshi, as he missed 2 matches due to a high temperature.
13. H 7 L 6; 8-5
Tamawashi (M7); 6'2, 379, 35; 5-9--6-9; (-12+16+17); 9-7
Tokushoryu (M2); 5'11",414, 33; 4-10--4-11; (+6-8+14); 7-9
Finishing move: Oshidashi--Frontal Push Out
Time: 7.9 seconds
Both Rikishi looked to go high, with Mongolian born Tamawashi getting a hand under Tokushoryu's chin, a foreshadow of what was to come. Tokushoryu came back with underarm grips on both of Tamawashi's arms. He began to drive Tamawashi back toward the tawara (rice straw bales), but then came the decisive moment. Tamawashi broke both grips, which freed him to go back under Tokoshoryu's chin, this time pushing him out.
Tamawashi was unable to overcome an early 5 match losing streak that put him in a 1-5 hole. He wrestled adequately from there, finishing with 5 wins in his last 9 matches, including his last 3 in a row.
For Tokoshoryu, a 15 rank promotion was perhaps a bit too much to overcome. His highest career ranking was M4 (in 2015), and since November of 2017 he has been in the Juryo (2nd Tier) competitions in 12 of the 15 tournaments he has wrestled. But he was able to win two of his last 3 matches in this one, and had a moment no one can ever take away, a Kinboshi (Gold Star Win) over Y1-O Kakuryu, his first Kinboshi. It was one of only 2 in the Tournament. He was out of this Tournament from the start, losing his first 5 matches before he won the Kinboshi. But he did have some positives coming out of it, and also the knowledge that he will most likely wrestle in his 3rd consecutive Makuuchi (Top Tournament), the first time since 2016 that he has achieved that. And he will always have the January 2020 Championship.
14.* H 8 L 6; 9-5
Okinoumi (M2); 6'3", 368, 34; 7-7--8-7; (-6+3-8); 9-16
Kotoshogiku (M13); 5'11",390, 36; 7-7--7-8;(-14+9-11);16-9
Finishing move: Uwatenage--Overarm throw (while turning away)
Time: 7.5 seconds
The third kachi-koshi match of the day was amazing to watch. Kotoshogiku achieved his tactical objective (a double underarm grip) and was in complete control of the match, never taking a step backward...until Okinoumi turned things around in an eye blink. Kotoshogiku pushed Okinoumi to the tawara (rice straw bales) in the first 3 seconds, but Okinoumi made a great defensive save by lodging a foot against the bale. Kotosogiku pushed him around and his foot touched the inside of the bale again. Then he drove him toward the bale on the other side of the dohyo (ring), still with the double underarm grip. At this point Okinoumi brillantly slipped his feet back and upper body forward to create the space to wrap his one arm around Kotoshokiku's back, while maneuvering the other over his shoulder. Then he drove down Kotoshogiku while he was still driving forward. Victory snatched from the jaws of defeat. And a well earned kachi-koshi.
Okinoumi had to struggle to achieve this kachi-koshi. He lost 4 of his first 5 matches, then won 3 in a row and 5 out of 6. 2 losses in the next 3 matches left him at 7-7. Kotogoshiku, who, on Day 14, was on the brink of a kachi-koshi, lost his final 2 matches. This was Kotoshokiku's 6th consecutive make-koshi, and 9th out of his last 11. In 4 of those tournaments, he finished 7-8.
15. H 8 L 7; 10-5
Daieisho (M1); 6'0",364,26; 8-6--8-7; (-5-4+5); 0-0
Kiribayama (M8); 6'0",304,23; 8-6--9-6;(+16+14+2);0-0
Finishing move: Uwatenage--Overarm Throw (while turning away)
Time: 3.4 seconds
This was pretty much an action replay of #14. Daieisho drove up and pushed Mongolian born Kiribayama's arms away at the start, giving him room to begin a big push. He pushed twice, but on the second push, Kiribayama slipped to the side and threw him down. Like Kotoshokiku in the last match, Daieisho never took a step back.
Kiribayama won his last 5 consecutive matches to turn what could have been a mediocre tournament into a very good one. He won with an Okuranage--rear throw down; a Yorikiri frontal force-out (with a mawashi [belt] grip); an Okuridashi--Rear Push Out; a Uwatehineri--twisting overarm throw; and an Uwatenage--Overarm Throw (while turning away): 5 different finishing moves, 3 throws, a push out and a force out. He made his Maakuchi (Top Tier) debut in the January Tournament, as an M17, finishing with an 11-4 record and a kanto-sho (fighting spirit) award. In his first two tournaments he is 20-10. Not a bad start in the "Big Leagues".
Daieisho wrestled in his 18th consecutive Maakuchi Tournament. He has 11 kachi-koshis in that time, including 4 of the last 5. 6 of the 11 have been with an 8-7 record. He has one 11-4, and four 9-6, with 2 kinboshis (Gold Star Wins-- against Kakuryu and Hakuho in consecutive tournaments in 2019), as well as a shukun-sho (outstanding performance) award.
16.* H 8 L 8; 10-6
Takarafuji (M7); 6'1", 370, 33; 8-6--9-6; (+11-3-S1); 7-8
Endo (K1); 6'0", 337, 29; 7-7--7-8;(-Y1/O+6-4); 8-7
Finishing move: Oshidashi--Frontal Push Out
Time: 5.1 seconds
In this 4th and final kachi-hoshi (winning tournament record) match, the only one where the seeker faced an opponent who already had his, Endo had all the incentive in the world. He was fighting for a kachi-koshi which would protect his ranking as a san'yaku (Top ranked--K,S,O,Y) and all that entailed in terms of respect and money. On the other hand, Takarafuji, who earned his kachi-koshi on D 12 and had lost 2 matches after that, had little on the line. So what happened? Takarafuji beat Endo at the tachi-ai (initial charge), got up under his arms, turned him and pushed him out of the dohyo (ring). Endo never took a step forward. And so he will most likely lose rank and be demoted from Komusubi back to Maegashira.
After Day 12 it looked like Endo was set for a kachi-koshi, with a 7-6 record and two lower ranked Rikishi on his scehdule, Abi (M4--5-8) and Takarafuji (M7--8-6). He lost both matches in a total of 6 seconds. His most recent promotion to K1 came last September. He stayed there after an 8-7 September Tournament but lost rank after a 7-8 November Tournament. He got his K rank back after a 9-6 Tournament in January. He is a veteran of the Maakuchi (Top Ranked tournament) circuit, having been promoted to M after his 3rd career Tournament in 2013, He has participated in 39 Maakuchi tournaments of his 40 since then. Hopefully, this is just a bump in the road for him.
For Takarafuji, a 6-1 spurt in the middle of the Tournament took him to his best record since last September and 2nd best record (several times) he has ever achieved on the Maakuchi circuit (he has been 10-5 twice). His path has been longer and more difficult than Endo's. He came up from Juryo after 14 Tournaments, and bounced back and forth 3 times before finally establishing himself at the beginning of 2013. He has fought in 42 consecutive Maakuchi tournaments since then, reaching S1 once. He has 3 Kinboshis (Gold Star Wins over Yokozuna) and 1 second place finish.
17. H 8 L 9; 10-7
Hokutofuji (K1); 6'0", 357, 27; 4-10--4-11; (+4-5+6); 4-1
Shohozan (M8); 5'9", 306, 36; 3-11--4-11; (-14+2-2);1-4
Finishing move: Yorikiri Frontal Force Out (with a mawashi [belt] grip)
Time: 12.1 seconds.
Shohozan finished a disappointing tournament with 2 wins in his last 3 matches, both over much higher ranked opponents. In this one he began by sidestepping a charging Hokutofuji and exchanging places with him. A battle for position upstairs led to Hokutofuji almost pushing Shohozan out (he lodged one foot against the tawara (rice straw bales) while having the other foot on top of them and then again lodged a foot against). They turned around and Hokutofuji pushed Shohozan to the other side toward the bales. But this time Shohozan sidestepped again, turning and finally forcing him out after grabbing his mawashi (belt). Sidestepping was a nice tactical movement that implemented his strategy of not letting the big man get too close.
For Hokutofuji, it was a forgettable tournament, low lighted by an 8 match losing streak in the middle of it. He salvaged some pride at the end, but this result will knock him out of the K rank and back to the M. He has yo yo'd back and forth since November 2019. This means that both K's in this tournament will almost certainly be demoted to the M ranks. It will be very interesting to see who replaces them. 3 M1-2s had 8-7 records. Mitakeumi (M3) was 10-5.
18. H 8 L 10; 10-7 (recused--knew the outcome before watching)
Takanosho (M9); 6'0", 359, 25; 11-3--12-3 (-S1+13+3); 2-0
Shodai (S1); 6'0", 377, 28; 8-6--8-7; (+Y+4+7); 0-2
Finishing move: Oshitaoshi--Frontal Push Down
Time: 4.7 seconds
In one of the biggest surprises of the Tournament, Takanosho beat Shodai, a san'yaku (Top Rank) 11 ranks above him. He finished a great tournament in style by immediately getting an underarm grip on Shodai's left arm and pushing him down and out. This was his 300th career win.
Takanosho won 8 of his first 9 and 4 of his last 5 in this tournament. He was in the Championship hunt until he lost to Asanoyama (S1) on Day 12. He pretty much knocked Aioyama (M13) out of the championship on Day 13. He ended up tied for the second best record in the Tournament (Jun-yusho). He also won his first prize in a Makuuchi (Top Tier) tournament--a kanto-sho (fighting spirit). It will be interesting to see how far he is promoted.
Shodai had a good tournament highlighted by a win over Yokozuna Grand Champion Hakuho. His tournament will be good enough to keep his S1 ranking. He has been a regular on the Makuuchi (Top Tier) circuit since January of 2016, 19 consecutive tournaments. He was 13-2 in the January 2020 Tournament, finishing 2nd and earning a promotion from M4 all the way to S1.
19.* H 8 L 11 11-7
Takakeisho (O); 5'9", 373, 28; 7-7--7-8; (+5-Y1/0+5); 3-3
Asanoyama (S1); 6'2", 390, 26; 10-4--11-4;(+9-Y-Y1/0); 3-3
Finishing move: Oshitaoshi--Frontal Push Down
Time: 9.4 seconds
This match was freighted with importance for both contestants. For Takakeisho, a win would keep his (O)zeki status (Ozeki--the rank just below Yokozuna--must have a kachi-koshi every tournament. If not, they must have a kashi-koshi the next tournament. If they suffer make-koshi in 2 consecutive tournaments, they are demoted to S(ekiwaki). If they win 10 matches after being demoted, they are immediately reinstated; if not, they must fight their way up like any other
S: win 33 matches in 3 consecutive Tournaments.
Asanoyama aspired to Takakeisho's rank. He needed 33 victories in 3 consecutive tournaments to be promoted from S(ekiwaki) to O(zeki). On Day 14 he was eliminated from Championship contention by Yokozuna Grand Champion Hakuho, his 4th loss, meaning he could only win 11, and, according to the rules of promotion, would only have 32 wins. But the judges and officials who determine rank change after Tournaments have some leeway over this. And, since the retirement of Ozeki Goeido after a 5-10 January Tournament, there was only one Ozeki.
The two clashed at the center of the dohyo (ring), both trying to work upstairs at first. Then Asanoyama gripped Takakeisho's mawashi (belt) with his left hand. He used that leverage to push Takakeisho hard and back, and then at a 90 degree angle toward the tawara (rice straw bales).Then Asanoyama tried to grasp Takakeisho's left shoulder with his other arm, but he was able to escape. In the process, his momentum carried him to the bales and Asanoyama quickly pushed him down.
For Asanayoma it was a great victory, but would it be enough? Would he be promoted without that 33rd victory?
The answer was yes. Shortly after the Tournament ended the Sumo Association, citing "commendations for the quality of his Sumo", unanimously granted his promotion. In his acceptance speech, he humbly said "I will live up to my name as ozeki and love the sport of sumo, fulfill justice as a rikishi (sumo wrestler) and exert myself to the utmost" (Japan Times) (English) and Asahi.com (Japanese).
He thus becomes the first Wrestler from his native Toyoma Prefecture (Toyoma City) to become an Ozeki since the sport's 22nd Yokozuna, Tachiyama (Sumo Fan Magazine "Rikishi of Old"), in 1909.
As for Takakeisho, he must now have a kashi-koshi in his next Tournament. For now there will be 2 Ozeki, as is usually the case.
20.* H 9 L 11; 11-7 (recused--as I knew the outcome of this match)
Hakuho (Y); 6'4", 348, 35; 12-2--13-2;(-S1+S1+13); 41-8
Kakuryu (Y1-O);6'1", 344, 34; 12-2--12-3; (+K+O+S1); 8-41
Finishing move: Yorikiri Frontal Forceout (with a mawashi [belt] grip
Time: 24.3 seconds
In a match that featured mawashi (belt) grip work almost exclusively, Hakuho outlasted Kakuryu, his 42nd win in 50 matches against his fellow Yokozuna, to win his 44th hanbasho (Tournament Championship), increasing his all time lead to 12 over Taiho (1960-1971).
Hakuho won his first 9 matches, then lost 2 of his next 3 before winning his final 3. He holds many sumo records, including most career match wins and longest tenure as a Yokozuna. Kakuryu got to this final match on the back of an 8 match winning streak. He had pulled out of his last 3 Tournaments.This was the first time in 7 years that the Tournament was decided in the last match, between 2 Yokozunas.
+++
Finishing moves
5. Yorikiri--Frontal Force Out (with a mawashi [belt] grip) 5. Oshidashi--Frontal Push Out
2. Oshitaoshi--Frontal Push Down
2. Uwatenage--Overarm throw
1. Okuritaoshi--Rear Push Down
1. Tsukiotashi--Thrust Down `
1. Tsudikashi--Frontal Thrust Out
1. Tsuridashi--Frontal Lift Out
1. Uwatehineri--Twisting Overarm Throw
1. Shitatenage--Underarm Throw
Force/Push/Lift Out/Downs 14; Thrust Out/Downs 2; Throws 4
+++
Heavier v Lighter: 5-15
<300: 3-0
>399: 0-6
+++
Total time of all matches: 229.2 seconds
Average time per match: 11.5 seconds
Shortest match: 2 seconds (#7: Myogiryu (M6) v Tochiozan (M10))
Longest match 1 minute, 2 seconds (#5: Kotonowaka (M18) v Tochinosin (M9))
Note: Day 15 had 5 matches that lasted over 15 seconds.
=============================
=============================
D 14
Day 14 saw the race simplify. It now comes down to the final match of the Tournament.
Hakuho (Y Grand Champion) 12-2 v Kakaru (Y1-O) 12-2
Hakuho defeated Aoiyama leaving the M13 at 11-3
Kakaru defeated Asanoyama leaving the S1 at 10-4
Takanosho (M9) (11-3) defeated Mitakeumi (M3) (10-4)
There are two other things still to be determined.
Asanoyoma (S1) will be unable to achieve the 12 victories needed (33 in 3 consecutive tournaments, with 10 in the most recent) for a promotion from Sekiwaki to Ozeki, 3rd to 2nd highest ranking. However, if he wins on the last day, there is a possibility that he may be promoted anyway, due to the fact that there is only one Ozeki (Takakeisho). Goeido, the other Ozeki, retired after a 5-10 January Tournament. Whatever chance Asanoyama may have will be dependent on his winning his last match.
Takakeisho (O): He had an excellent match today (see below), defeating Onasho (M5). The win improved his record to 7-7. In order to keep his Ozeki ranking, he must have a kachi-koshi (winning record) in every tournament. If he loses, he begins the complex process of trying to keep his ranking. An Ozeki who has a losing record must have a winning record in the next tournament. If he has a losing record in two consecutive tournaments, he will be demoted to Sekiwake.
So what better way to resolve both issues than to have the 2 wrestle each other?
There will be 2 matches of great importance on D 15.
19. Takakeisho (O) (7-7) v Asanoyama (S1) 10-4
20. Hakuho (Y Grand Champion) (12-2) v Kakuryu (Y1-O) (12-2).
In addition, there will be 7 other Rikishi "on the bubble." A win will earn them a kachi-koshi.
6. Meisei (M17) 7-7 v Kagayaki (M6) 7-7
12. Yutakayama (M3) 7-7 v Chiyomaru (M15) 7-5-2
14. Okinoumi (M2) 7-7 v Kotoshugiku (M13) 7-7
16. Takarafuji (M7) 8-6 v Endo (K1) 7-7
So a lot is on the line on senshuraku (the final day of the Tournament).
On Day 14 the higher ranked Rishiki went 11-9 in matches against the lower.
San'yaku (championship rank Rikishi)
Yokozuna 2-0
Ozeki 1-0
Sekiwaki 1-1
Komusubi 1-1
kachi-koshi (winning Tournament record, usually, but not always means promotion in rank)
Day 11
Hakuho (Yokozuna Grand Champion) 12-2
Kakuryu (Y1-O)* 12-2
Aoiyama (M13) 11-3
Takanosho (M9) 11-3
Asanoyama (S1) 10-4 Mitakeumi (M3) 10-4
*Beacause there is only 1 Ozeki in the Tournament, Kakuryu has been ranked Y1-O (Yokozuna-Ozeki).
Added Day 12
Kaisei (M14) 8-6
Takarafuji (M7) 8-6
Ishiura (M12) 8-6
Added Day 13
Onosho (M5) 8-6
Added Day 14
Shodai (S1) 8-6
Daieisho (M1) 8-6
Kiribayama (M8) 8-6
Chiyotairyu (M11) 8-6
Shimanoumi (M16) 8-6
Kotonowaka: (M18) 8-6
make-koshi (pronounced "mockee (like the word "mock") koshee (like the word "kosher") (losing Tournament Record, usually, but not always means a drop in rank).
Day 11
Nishikigi (M14) 5-9
Sadanoumi (M10) 6-8
Tamawashi (M7) 5-9
Myogiryu (M6) 4-10
Tokushoryu(M2)January honbasho winner4-10
Hotukofugi(K) 4-10
Shohozan (M8) 3-11
Tochiozan (M10) 2-12
Tsurogisho(M15) 1-4-6*
Takayasu (M1) 0-5-6*
*=Did not participate (usually due to injury)
Added Day 12
Enho (M4) 5-9
Ryuden (M5) 5-9
Added Day 13
Tochinoshin(M9) 6-8
Abi(M4) 6-8
Azumaryu(M16) 5-9
Daiamami(M17) 5-9
====================
My record for the day was 9-11. My Day record is now 8 wins; 3 losses; 1 tie and 2 days I didn't participate. (This is how Rishiki records are presented). I have tried to pick winners for 201 matches (minus recusals--matches where I found out the outcome before I watched the match). My individual match record is now 99-81 (.550).
====================
My Day 14 Line Score
Key:
Line 1: Match Number: Higher Rank W; Lower Rank W; My running record for the day.
Line 2-3: Rikishi v Rikishi (Bold=winner; Bold=loser; Italics=my pick). Next to each Rikishi:
A. Rank
B. Dimensions (height, weight, age)
C. Record to date in the Tournament
D. Record in the last 3 matches before this one (D 11-13 in this case) in chronological order from earliest to most recent: +(won) over R or -(lost) to R where R is ranking--all Ms are listed as numbers only--note that numbers can repeat, as there are generally 2 for each rank
E. Head to head career record before this match
Line 4: Finishing move (in Japanese and translated, with some further explained)
Line 5: Time of the match
Comments.
Note that Rikishi are in the order of what side of the dohyo (ring) they entered. Top is East, bottom is West (I think :) )
Links to information about the Rikishi is available at the NHK Sumo Page
Career information is available at SR (click on the Rikishi link or link from Hanbasho (Tournament) information available on the page.).
Note: any J1 matches listed below were Juryo (2nd Tier) Tournament substitutes for Chiyomaru (M15), who missed 2 matches after running a high temperature earlier in the Tournament
+++
1. H 0 L 1; 0-1
Kotonowaka:(M18); 6'2", 381, 22; 7-6--8-6;(-13-12-12); 1-0
Nishikigi (M14) 6'1", 397, 29; 5-8--5-9; (-8+13+6); 0-1
Finishing move: Uwatedashinage--Pulling Overarm Throw
Time: 7.1 seconds
K won the tachi-ai (initial charge) and had the momentum as both combatants locked up high. That momentum carried him forward and he looked like he was going to push N out. Instead he threw him down. Kotonowaka, on his 5th try, earned his kachi-koshi and has had a terrific debut Tournament. He won 7 of his first 9 before stumbling. Nishikigi had won 4 of his last 5 before this match.
2. H 0 L 2; 1-1
Ishiura (M12); 5'9", 243, 30; 8-5--8-6;(-14-9-16); 1-3
Meisei (M17); 5'10",331, 24; 6-7--7-7;(+16-11+11);3-1
Finishing move: Oshidashi--Frontal Push Out
Time: 4.4 seconds
M started low to force Ishiura to go higher than he wanted to and try to get under M's arms to prevent him from getting a mawashi (belt) grip. Once that happened M could use leverage to try to push him out. Ishiura tried to get an arm bar on M as he was being pushed out but it was too little too late. Ishiura ended up on his feet and M was sprawled on the ground, but it was after M had already pushed I out. It was a huge win for Meisei as he has a chance to get his kachi-koshi shimon the last day. He may be back to Juryo (2nd Tier) if he doesn't. But he fought a very intelligent match today, in my opinion. It was Ishiura's 4th consecutive loss.
3. H 0 L 3; 2-1
Shimanoumi (M16); 5'10',364, 30; 7-6--8-6;(+8+8+12); 1-0
Ikioi (M12); 6'4", 390, 33; 8-5--8-6;(+17+7+18);0-1
Finishing move: Tsukiotashi--Thrust Down
Time: 27.8 seconds
This was a long battle of attrition with each Rikishi trying mawashi (belt) grips, underarm grips, and high attacks. There were pushes that got close but didn't succeed. At one point Ikioi had the initiative but couldn't complete an arm throw. Then there was a long stalemate in the middle. Heavy breathing was clearly audible. Finally, S began pulling his opponent. And that led to the thrust down, ending the 27 second struggle. Shimanoumi achieved his kashi-koshi (winning Tournament) with his 4th consecutive victory, meaning that his worries about dropping back to Juryo (2nd Tier), which 4 days ago looked an almost certainty, are probably over. Best of all, each of the wins came against a higher ranked opponent. Ikioi, who achieved his kashi-koshi Day 13, had a 3 match streak snapped and fell to 8-6,the same as his opponent.
4. H 1 L 3; 2-2
Chiyotairyu (M11); 5'11",423, 31; 7-6--8-6;(+8-14-17); 2-16
Kotoshogiku (M13); 5'11",390, 36; 7-6--7-7;(+15-14+9); 16-2
Finishing move: Hatakikomi--Slap Down
Time: 1.3 seconds
This appeared to be an interesting matchup, with both Rikishi going for that 8th victory, a kachi-koshi. The career records showed that K has dominated this rivalry. But one wouldn't know it by this match. K attempted to go low to perhaps get a mawashi (belt) grip, but C was quicker, put two hands on K's head, and slapped him down. The only grip K got was of C's sagari (strings). It was over in an eye blink. Chiyotairyu got his kachi-koshi. Kotoshogiku has one more chance on Day 15, the final day of the Tournament.
5. H2 L3; 2-3
Chiyomaru (M15);5'11",428, 28;7-4-2--7-5-2;(-13+9+10); 2-3
Terutsuyoshi (M11); 5'7",265, 25; 8-5--9-5; (+16+17-5); 3-2
Finishing move: Oshidashi--Frontal Push Out
Time: 6.9 seconds
T got a good position under C's arms. Then he proceeded to push him around the ring, and finally, out. It takes a strong man to do that to someone who outweighs him by 163 pounds. Chiyomaru was going for a kachi-koshi, and will have 1 more chance on the final day. Terutsuyoshi has had a fine tournament, winning 4 of his last 5.
6. H3 L3; 2-4
Azumaryu (M16); 6'3", 362, 32; 5-8--5-9; (-11-10-7);2-1
Tochiozan (M10); 6'2", 344, 33; 1-12--2-12;(+7-17-15);1-2
Finishing move: Oshidashi--Frontal Push Out
Time: 11.8 seconds
Mongolian born Azumaryu charged into a brick wall and both Rikishi searched for an advantage, After a short struggle they both got mawashi (belt) grips, but the match turned when T was able to push Azumaryu away, which cleared his arms for the next, decisive push. The loss perhaps sealed Azumaryu's demotion to Juryo (2nd Tier). It was a good win for Tochiozan after the unfortunate tournament he has had. It will be interesting to see how far his rank drops. after an 0-10 start, he has now split his last 4 matches.
7. H3 L4; 2-5
Shohozan (M8); 5'9",306, 36; 3-10--3-11;(-16-14+2); 10-4
Sadanoumi (M10):6'0",322, 32; 5-8--6-8; (-17+16+17);4-10
Finishing move: Yorikiri Force Out (with a mawashi [belt] grip)
Time: 2.3 seconds
Sa won the tachi-ai (initial charge) not in the sense that he moved Sh, but rather in the sense that he got all the tactical things right. Sh started with an ineffective face slap. This opened up his defenses and Sa took advantage. He got a mawashi grip with his right hand, got his left arm under Sh's other arm, turned him 90 degrees, and forced him out. It was a clincal win for Sadanoumi and an excellent example of taking what your opponent gives you. Shohozan's troubles continued.
8. H 4 L 4; 3-5
Daiamami (M17); 6'0", 412; 27; 5-8--5-9;(-12+10-10); 0-0
Tamawashi (M7); 6'2, 379, 35; 4-9--5-9;(-10-12+16); 0-0
Finishing move: Oshidashi--Frontal Push Out
Time: 4.3 seconds
Mongolian born T won the tachi-ai by pushing up under D's chin. This gave him the space to start turning and pushing D. 4 pushes sandwiched around another under the chin push decided things. Tamawashi will go down in rank, but he was excellent today. D will be thinking about the next Basho...probably the Juryo (2nd Tier) Basho in May.
9. H 4 L 5 3-6
Enho (M4); 5'6",218, 25; 5-8--5-9; (+2-K1+1);1-0
Myogiryu (M6); 6'2",346, 33; 3-10--4-10;(-2-2-14);0-1
Finishing move: Uwatenage--Overarm Throw
Time: 7.3 seconds
E tried to go low. M said no with pushes and a slap, which created space and allowed him to grip E's mawashi (belt). At the same time E was quick enough to grip M's. As they moved toward the tawara (rice straw bales) together, E got an arm bar on M and, amazingly was able to trip and throw him. Unfortunately, he was already going down by this time as M threw E by the back of his mawashi slightly before. E came down first, M came down on top of him. The loss pretty much guaranteed Enho will lose rank. How much remains to be seen. The same goes for Myogiryu.
10. H 4 L 6; 3-7
Yutakayama (M3); 6'0", 395, 26; 7-6--7-7; (+7+4-2); 0-2
Tochinosin (M9); 6'3", 390, 32, 5-8--6-8; (+6-15-13); 2-0
Finishing move: Katasukashi--Under-shoulder Swing Down
Time: 7.2 seconds
Arms and hands were pushing and thrusting as each Rikishi tried to gain an advantage. Finally Y charged in low and Georgian born Tochinosin backed away, causing Y to lose balance. T then finished the proceedings. Yutakayama has one more chance for a kachi-koshi. Tochinosin, not having the best of tournaments, can still, with a win on the last day, finish a relatively respectable 7-8. If he wins, it will be interesting to see what happens to his ranking.
11.* H 4 L 7; 3-8
Takanosho (M9); 6'0", 359, 25; 10-3--11-3;(+12-S1+13);0-0
Mitakeumi (M3); 5'11", 386, 27; 10-3--10-4; (+1-13+7); 0-0
Finishing move: Oshidashi--Frontal Pushout
Time: 6.4 seconds
In the first marquee match of the day, Takanosho and Mitakeumi battled upstairs, with T taking the initiative and, after some struggle, pushing his opponent out. It was a big win for T, keeping him alive in the race for the Championship. For the 2nd day in a row he defeated a Championship contender, defeating Aoiyama Day 13. M, although he has had a terrific tournament, was eliminated from Championship competition.
12. H 4 L 8; 3-9
Okinoumi (M2);6'3", 368,34; 7-6--7-7; (+6-6+3); 0-0
Kiribayama (M8);6'0", 304,23; 7-6--8-6;(+14+16+14);0-0
Finishing move: Uwatehineri--Twisting Overarm Throw
Time: 11.9 seconds
In a tough struggle, Mongolian born Kiribayama was able to grip O's mawashi (belt) with one, then the other hand. The second grip coincided with his locking O's arm. And it was that locked arm that K attacked for the win. Kiribayama has had and up and down 2nd half. He started out splitting his first 4 matches. He then won 2 in a row. But at that point things went pear shaped as he lost his next 4. At 4-6 he looked a good candidate for demotion. But then he came back strongly, beating 3 lower ranked Rikishi berfore this win. He earned a kachi-koshi and has a possibility for a 9 win Tournament. He beat the opponents he was supposed to beat to put him in position. He capitalized on that today. Okinoumi can still get his kachi-koshi with a win on D 15.
13. H 5 L 8; 3-10
Kaisei (M14);6'4" 441, 32; 8-5--8-6; (+11+8-8); 9-3
Tokushoryu (M2);5'11",414, 33; 3-10--4-10;(-4+6-8); 3-9
Finishing move: Tsukiotoshi--Thrust Down
Time: 10.5 seconds
T went under Brazilian born Kaisei's chin to begin with. This gave him the room to work on K's left shoulder, spinning him one way then the other before he used it to thrust him down. Kaisei, after winning 2 matches against higher ranked Rikishi to achieve his kachi-koshi, has now stumbled twice, eliminating any chance of a 10 win tournament. Tokushoryu (after his great triumph in the January Tournament, is finally beginning to "right the ship," far too late, of course, for a decent result in this Tournament.
14. H 6 L 8; 4-10
Daieisho (M1); 6'0",364, 26; 7-6--8-6; (3-5-4); 5-4
Ryuden (M5); 6'3" 340; 29; 5-8--5-9;(-Y1/O-S1+K); 4-5
Finishing move: Oshitaoshi--Frontal Push Down
Time: 14.1 seconds
D earned his kachi-koshi with a relentless push, thrust, and slap attack that kept R at bay the entire match. The final act came when he pushed under R's chin, lifting his head. From there, three quick and hard pushes sent R tumbling out of the dohyo (ring). Daieisho will most likely be promoted to K(omusubi), the lowest san'yaku (championship) rank. He was promoted to K rank on the back of an 8-7 record in the November Tournament. He was 7-8 in the January Tournament to go back to M1.
15. H 7 L 8; 5-10
Hokutofuji (K1); 6'0", 357, 27; 3-10--4-10;(-Y+4-5); 6-1
Kagayaki (M6); 6'4", 366, 25; 7-6--7-7; (-9+2-K1);1-6
Finishing move: Oshidashi--Frontal Push Out
Time: 2.3 seconds
H had an excellent match, doing all the things that made him a K1 in the first place. He went low and then drove up, creating the space to get his arms under K's. From there, with a single push (and one more--a little more gratuitous), he escorted K off the premesis. It was all much too little and too late for Hokutofuji, who will almost certainly drop to the M ranks. For Kakayaki, a chance for kachi-koshi went "a-begging." He has one more chance on the final day.
16. H 7 L 9; 5-11
Abi (M4); 6'1", 342, 25; 5-8--6-8; (+O-3-S1); 7-2
Endo (K1); 6'0", 337, 29; 7-6--7-7;(+5-Y1/O+6);2-7
Finishing move: Hikiotoshi--Hand Pull Down (while backing away)
Time: 2 seconds
Abi got hands on each side of Endo's face and then got his right hand under Endo's chin. And then he pulled Endo into him and slammed him down. It was quick, brutal, and effective. Abi denied Endo his kachi-koshi, without which, Endo may be demoted. In that case both the K's in this Tournament will have been demoted.
17. H 8 L 9; 6-11
Takarafuji (M7); 6'1", 370, 33; 8-5--8-6; (-3+11-3)
Shodai (S1); 6'0", 377, 28; 7-6--8-6;(-Y1/O+Y+4)
Finishing move: Yorikiri--Frontal Force Out (without a mawashi [belt] grip)
Time: 2.6 seconds
Shodai climaxed his great 2nd half run (from 3-4 to 8-6, including a 5 match winning streak) with a dominant win over Takarafuji. It guaranteed his kachi-koshi. Shodai beat T at the tachi-ai (initial charge) by wrapping him up high with both arms, turned him, and then forced him out. T was completely immobilized. The finishing move was judged a Yorikiri, even though S never touched T's mawashi (belt). My glossary and dictionary information seems to indicate that a mawashi grip is a requirement of this finishing move but it turns out that it is not. See the article at Tachiai Blog, a great source of Sumo information. It has a great deal of information about finishing techniques, and is an "illustrated" lecture. :)
18. H 9 L 9; 7-11
Takakeisho (O); 5'9", 373, 28; 6-7--7-7; (-4+5-Y1/0); 2-2
Onosho (M5);5'10",346, 23; 8-5--8-6 (-K+1+11); 2-2
Finishing move: Tsukidashi--Frontal Thrust Out
Time: 5 seconds
This was a critical match for Takakeisho. He is fighting to keep his Ozeki rank and must have a kachi-koshi. He won in convincing fashion. He started high with flailing arms in order to fend of an Onosho slap attack. Then he pushed him hard to create the space to push him hard again and finish things.
19.* H 10 L 9; 8-11
Hakuho (Y); 6'4", 348, 35; 11-2--12-3;(+K1-S1+S1); 21-1
Aoiyama (M13);6'3", 425, 33; 11-2--11-3; (+18+3-9): 1-21
Finishing move: Uwatenage--Overarm Throw
Time: 4.7 seconds
This was the second premier match of the day. The winner would finish with an inside track and control of his fate as to the Championship. Aoiyama tried to get some sort of grip after hitting Mongolian born Hakuho on the side of the head. Hakuho's arms were too quick to allow it. He was able to side step Aoiyama and from there, in an eye blink, threw him out of the dohyo (ring). Aoiyama has had a terrific Tournament, but his loss yesterday to Takanosho (M9) was fatal. Had he won that match, a loss here would have left him with a share of the lead and a very complicated scenario for D 15. Now he must win D 15 and have other matches go his way today and D 15. Hakuho, who had split his last 4 matches, looked all business today.
20.* H 11 L 9; 9-11
Asanoyama (S1); 6'2", 390, 26; 10-3--10-4;(+5+9-Y); 2-1
Kakuryu (Y1-O); 6'1", 344, 34; 11-2--12-2;(+S1+K+O);1-2
Finishing move: Shitatenage--Underarm Throw
Time: 17.3 seconds.
Mono-ii: Referee's decision did not stand. Kakuryu was declared the winner.
This was the last and by far the best match of the day. Momentum swung back and forth, it looked like Monglian born Kakuryu was going to be pushed out, but he lodged his foot against the tawara (rice straw bales) twice. Then Kakuryu went on the attack as both had a grip on each other's mawahi (belt). In the middle of the drive Asanoyama got an underarm grip, turned Kakuryu and drove him to the other side. Kakuryu again lodged his foot on the inside of the bales. Asanoyama turned him around and threw him out. Only they both went out. Asanoyama was declared the winner by the Gyoji (referee), but an immediate mano-ii (judges conference) took place. Asanoyama's hand touched down before Kakuro. End of story. And a match that Asanayoma dominated most of ended up a win for Kakuro.
It was a double blow for Asanoyama. It eliminated him (as well as Aioyama (M13) and Takanosho (M9)--see above) from Championship contention. It also ended his chance at the 12 wins he needs for 33 in 3 Tournaments, which would have promoted him to Ozeki. There is some talk that should he win on D 15, he might be promoted anyway, as there is only one Ozeki at the moment, Goeido having retired after a 5-10 January tournament. It will be very interesting to see how that works out.
Kakuro might have been a bit fortunate to win this match, but he showed great defense to fend off defeat twice earlier. It was his 8th consecutive victory. And now the stage is set. The Championship will be decided by a battle between the two Yokozunas in the final match of the Tournament. About as different an ending as is possible from the way the January Tournament concluded.
+++
Finishing moves:
Oshidashi--Frontal Push Out 6
Yorikiri Force Out 2
Tsukiotashi--Thrust Down 2
Uwatenage--Overarm Throw 2
Tsukidashi--Frontal Thrust Out 1
Oshitaoshi--Frontal Push Down 1
Hikiotoshi--Hand Pull Down 1
Hatakikomi--Slap Down 1
Katasukashi--Under-shoulder Swing Down 1
Uwatedashinage--Pulling Overarm Throw 1
Uwatehineri--Twisting Overarm Throw 1
Shitatenage--Underarm Throw 1
Pushes or Forces 9;
Pulls, Throws, Thrusts, Slaps, or Swing Downs 11
+++
Heavier Rikishi v Lighter 8-12
<300 pounds 1-2
>399 pounds 2-4
+++
Total time of 20 matches: 157.2 seconds (2 minutes 37.2 seconds).
Average time per match: 7.9 seconds
Shortest match: 1.3 seconds: (#4: Chiyotairyu (M11) v Kotoshogiku (M13))
Longest match: 27.8 seconds (#3: Shimanoumi (M16) v Ikioi (M12))
=============================
=============================
D 13
D 13 saw the race tighten with 6 Rikishi either tied for or within 1 match of the lead. A surprise loss by M13 Aioyama dropped his record to 11-2. Both Yokozunas won easily, giving them 11-2 records. Three other Rikishi are close behind at 10-3.
Hakuho (Y Grand Champion) 11-2
Kakaru (Y1-O) 11-2
Aioyama (M13 11-2
Asanoyama (S1) 10-3
Mitakeumi (M3) 10-3
Takanosho (M9) 10-3
At this point in the Tournament, the matches are scheduled to pit the best records against the best records, in order to determine the Champion. The top matches on D 14 will pit all 6 of these Rikishi against each other (see below). For Asanoyama, who fell to Hakuho today, there is still not only a Tournament to be won (with some help), but 2 wins to get to guarantee him 33 wins in the last 3 Tournaments, which should lead to a promotion from Sekiwaki to Ozeki, the 2nd highest rank in Sumo. The organizers have been doing this for eons, and they know what they are doing. Matching Rikishi of approximately equal skills throughout the Tournament is very different from the way American sports "seeding" is done. But the "cream" usually rises to the top in any event. A look at the leader board shows that half of the 6 Rikishi still in contention are San'yaku (championship rank). The final 2 days should be very exciting. So sad that there isn't a capacity crowd in the arena to see the conclusion.
On Day 13 the higher ranked Rishiki went 12-8 in matches against the lower.
San'yaku (championship rank Rikishi)
Yokozuna 2-0
Ozeki 0-1
Sekiwaki 1-1
Komusubi 1-1
kachi-koshi (winning Tournament record, usually, but not always means promotion in rank)
Day 11
Hakuho (Yokozuna Grand Champion) 11-2
Aoiyama (M13) 11-2
Kakuryu (Y1-O)* 11-2
Asanoyama (S1) 10-3
Mitakeumi (M3) 10-3
Takanosho (M9) 10-3
*Beacause there is only 1 Ozeki in the Tournament, Kakuryu has been ranked Y1-O (Yokozuna-Ozeki).
Added Day 12
Kaisei (M14) 8-5
Takarafuji (M7) 8-5
Ishiura (M12) 8-5
Added Day 13
Onosho (M5) 8-5
Important Day 14 Matchups
11. Takanosho (M9) 10-3 v Mitakeumi (M3) 10-3
19. Hakuho (Y) 11-2 v Aioyama (M13) 11-2
20. Asanayama (S1) 10-3 v Kakuryu (Y1/O) 11-2
make-koshi (pronounced "mockee (like the word "mock") koshee (like the word "kosher") (losing Tournament Record, usually, but not always means a drop in rank).
Day 11
Nishikigi (M14) 5-8
Sadanoumi (M10) 5-8
Tamawashi (M7) 4-9
Myogiryu (M6) 3-10
Tokushoryu(M2)January honbasho winner3-10
Hotukofugi(K) 3-10
Shohozan (M8) 3-10
Tochiozan (M10) 1-12
Tsurogisho(M15) 1-4-6*
Takayasu (M1) 0-5-6*
*=Did not participate (usually due to injury)
Added Day 12
Enho (M4) 5-8
Ryuden (M5) 5-8
Added Day 13
Daiamami(M17) 5-8
Tochinoshin(M9) 5-8
Azumaryu(M16) 5-8
Abi(M4) 5-8
====================
My record for the day was 10-10 . My Day record is now 8 wins; 2 losses; 1 tie and 2 days I didn't participate. (This is how Rishiki records are presented). I have tried to pick winners for 181 matches (minus recusals--matches where I found out the outcome before I watched the match). My individual match record is now 90-70 (.563).
My Day 13 "line score"
Key:
Line 1: Match Number: Higher Rank W; Lower Rank W; My running record for the day.
Line 2-3: Rikishi v Rikishi (Bold=winner; Bold=loser; Italics=my pick). Next to each Rikishi:
A. Rank
B. Dimensions (height, weight, age)
C. Record to date in the Tournament
D. Record in the last 3 matches before this one (D 10-12 in this case) in chronological order from earliest to most recent: +(won) over R or -(lost) to R where R is ranking--all Ms are listed as numbers only--note that numbers can repeat, as there are generally 2 for each rank
E. Head to head career record before this match
Line 4: Finishing move (in Japanese and translated, with some further explained)
Line 5: Time of the match
Comments.
Note that Rikishi are in the order of what side of the dohyo (ring) they entered.
Links to information about the Rikishi is available at the NHK Sumo Page
Career information is available at SR (click on the Rikishi link or link from Hanbasho (Tournament) information available on the page.).
Note: any J1 matches listed below were Juryo (2nd Tier) Tournament substitutes for Chiyomaru (M15), who missed 2 matches after running a high temperature earlier in the Tournament.
1. H 1 L 0; 1-0
Kotonowaka:(M18); 6'2", 381, 22; 7-5--7-6;(-11-13-12);1-1
Ikioi (M12); 6'4", 390, 33; 7-5--8-5;(-17+17+7); 1-1
Finishing Move: Yorikiri--Frontal Force Out (with a mawashi [belt] grip)
Time: 4.9 seconds
Ikioi earned his kachi-koshi (winning Tournament record and most likely promotion in rank) with a clinical victory over K, his 4th consecutive victory. He opened by getting both arms under K's, immobilizing him. From there he grasped K's mawashi and escorted him out. K is still looking for that elusive 8th win that will earn him a kachi-koshi in his first tournament at this level.
2. H 1 L 1; 2-0
Ishiura (M12); 5'9", 243, 30; 8-4--8-5;(+12-14-9);0-3
Shimanoumi (M16); 5'10',364, 30; 6-6--7-6;(-13+8+8); 3-0
Finishing Move: Oshidashi--Frontal Push Out
Time: 5.4 seconds
Ishiura tried to get in low. S was having none of it. Ishiura tried to get a mawashi grip and S countered that. They danced around the dohyo (ring) a bit and then S got under I's arm and pushed him out. S desperately needed this victory and is now 1 win away from a kachi-koshi.
3. H 1 L 2 2-1
Chiyotairyu (M11); 5'11",423, 31; 7-5--7-6;(-13+8-14); 1-0
Meisei (M17); 5'10",331, 24; 5-7--6-7;(+18+16-11);0-1
Finishing Move: Yorikiri--Frontal Force Out (with a mawashi [belt] grip)
Time: 1.7 seconds
M won the tachi-ai (initial charge) and was able to latch on to C's mawashi. He then turned his 423 pound opponent and forced him out, though they both went flying off the dohyo (ring). Meisei avoided make-koshi (tournament losing record and likely demotion in rank--in Meisei's case possibly demotion to Juryo-- 2nd Tier) for another day, while C has now failed twice to get his kachi-koshi. He has 2 more opportunities.
4. H 1 L 3; 3-1
Chiyomaru (M15); 5'11",428, 28;6-4-2--7-4-2;(x-13+9); 1-6
Tochiozan (M10); 6'2", 344, 33; 1-11--1-12;(-14+7-17);6-1
Finishing move: Hikiotashi: Hand Pull Down (while backing away)
Time: 15.1 seconds
There was a lot of pushing and flailing and Tochiozan survived a push out attempt. At the end C pushed T away and T charged a still backing up C, but was not quite balanced, allowing C to finish. C is now 1 win away from a remarkable achievement, an 8 win kachi-koshi while only wrestling 13 matches. Tochiozan's difficult Tournament continued.
5. H 2 L 3; 3-2
Sadanoumi(M10): 6'0", 322, 32; 4-8--5-8;(-7-17+16); 1-0
Daiamami (M17); 6'0", 412; 27; 5-7--5-8;(-J1-12+10); 0-1
Finishing move: Uwatenage: Overarm Throw
Time: 5.2 seconds
D's attempt at an Oshidashi (? not sure if that was the FM he was trying or not) (Frontal Push Out) almost worked. Almost. He drove S almost to the tawara (rice straw bales) but couldn't finish. He even tried to grab S's mawashi but couldn't do that either. The saving grace for O was that he had D's mawashi in a double grip. That helped keep him in. He was able to then turn D around, force him toward the other side, and take him down with the throw. The loss consigned D to a make-koshi. He was promoted from the Juryo Division to the Makuuchi (Top Division) on the back of an 11-4 Juryo Tournament, and, while nothing is certain, it certainly looks like he will be going back to Juryo.
6. H 2 L 4 4-2
Kotoshogiku (M13); 5'11",390,36; 6-6--7-6;(-16+15-14);24-10
Tochinosin (M9) 6'3", 390,32, 5-7--5-8; (+8+6-15); 10-24
Finishing move: Yorikiri--Frontal Force Out (with a mawashi [belt] grip)
Time: 4.5 seconds
This match was all K. Though Georgian born T came out faster, K got under him with one hand on his mawashi and the other arm under his arm.That hand soon dropped for a double mawashi grip. T resisted at the tawara (rice straw bales) for close to 2 seconds, to no avail. It was a defeat that left T with a make-koshi, perhaps wondering how, after scoring 2 wins against higher ranked Ms, he lost the next 2 to Rikishi that were 4 and 6 ranks below him. K needs 1 more win for his kachi-koshi, but if he does better than that, the two might cross in the rankings.
7.* H 3 L 4 4-3
Takanosho (M9); 6'0", 359, 25; 9-3--10-3;(+12+12-S1);1-2
Aoiyama (M13); 6'3", 425, 33; 11-1--11-2;(+16+18+3);2-1
Finishing move: Oshidashi--Frontal Push Out.
Time: 2.3 seconds
Bulgarian born Aoiyama's championship hopes were severely dented by T, who scored a surprisingly easy and dominant win. He got in low and A appeared to try and take him down with hand on head. That didn't work and T drove up and pushed, pushed hard, and won. The M9 has had a quietly terrific tournament and now finds himself right back in championship contention after a tough loss to S1 Asanoyma on Day 12.
8. H 4 L 4 4-4
Kaisei (M14);6'4" 441, 32; 8-4--8-5;(+12+11+8); 1-1
Kiribayama (M8);6'0", 304, 23; 6-6--7-6;(-11+14+16);1-1
Finishing move: Okuridashi--Rear Push Out
Time: 6.8 seconds
Mongolian born Kiribayama established an arm bar on Brazilian born Kaisei, and the leverage of the hold allowed him to escort K out of the dohyo (ring). A very intelligent and surprisingly dominant win, in my opinion. The loss broke a 5 match Kaisei winning streak. Kiribayama won his 3rd in a row and now needs only 1 more win for a kachi-koshi.
9. H 5 L 4 4-5
Azumaryu (M16); 6'3", 362, 32; 5-7--5-8;(+13-11-10); 1-0
Tamawashi (M7); 6'2, 379, 35; 3-9--4-9;(-10-10-12); 0-1
Finishing move: Tsukidashi--Frontal Thrust Out
Time: 3.1 seconds
Mongolian born Azumaryu had everything to fight for in this match.
4 Tournaments before this one he was in the Juryo division, In the next 3 tournaments he bounced up (8-7--M15), down (6-9--J1) and up again (11-4--M15). In the next tournament he was 7-8 but lost only 1 M rank. He still had a slim chance for a kachi-koshi going into this match. On the other hand, Mongolian born Tamawashi had nothing but pride to fight for, knowing that his poor showing was going to drop him in the M rankings. He has been banged around in his last few tournaments, dropping all the way from S(ekiwaki) to M7 after suffering make-koshi in three of the previous 4 tournaments. He had lost 5 consecutive matches in this Tournament. When the match started Tamawashi beat his opponent to the punch and hit him high 3 times, pushing him out. Azumaryu did not take a step forward in the match.
.
10. H 5 L 5 4-6
Myogiryu (M6); 6'2", 346, 33; 3-9--3-10; (+K1-2-2); 4-5
Nishikigi (M14) 6'1", 397, 29; 4-8--5-8; (+10-8+13);5-4
Finishing hold: Sukuinage--beltless arm throw
Time: 3.9 seconds
At the tachi-ai (initial charge) M tried to grab N's mawashi (it is unclear to me if he ever actually did) and began forcing. While backing up N grabbed hold of that arm, and used it to spin M down. Both Rikishis needed a win badly, but Nishikigi perhaps more so, as each win now is crucial to his avoiding a demotion to Juryo. He came up to the top division on the heels of an excellent 11-4 performance in his last Juryo Tournament. And his wrestling has greatly improved. At one point he was 1-7 in this Tournament.
11. H 6 L 5 5-6
Terutsuyoshi (M11); 5'7", 265, 25; 8-4--8-5;(+18+16+17); 1-1
Onosho (M5); 5'10", 346, 23; 7-5--8-5 (+Y-K+1); 1-1
Finishing move: Okuridashi--Rear Push Out
Time: 5.5 seconds
O took control, attacking T high with one hand while putting a vice grip on the back of his mawashi with the other. O then escorted T off the premises. Onosho has had an increasingly successful run in this Tournament, with a Kinboshi (Gold Star Win) over Grand Champion Yokozuna Hakuho and a win over M1 Daieisho in the last 3 matches. He started off quickly at 5-2 but then had a bad patch. Now he seems to be finishing the Tournament in style, with a machi-koshi. T was mathematically eliminated from championship contention with the loss.
12. H 7 L 5 6-6
Takarafuji (M7); 6'1", 370, 33; 8-4--8-5; (+9-3+11); 2-4
Mitakeumi (M3); 5'11", 386, 27; 9-3--10-3;(+K1+1-13);4-2
Finishing move: Yorikiri--Frontal Force Out (with a mawashi [belt] grip)
Time: 15.5 seconds
This match was a complete stalemate in the middle for a long time, T trying to get an arm bar, M trying for T's mawashi. Neither was able to accomplish their goal. Finally M broke free and forced T out. Mitakeumi kept his chances for the Championship alive, 1 match behind with 2 to go. Takarafuji was mathematically eliminated from Championship contention.
13. H 7 L 6 6-7
Shohozan (M8); 5'9",306, 36; 2-10--3-10;(-9-16-14);6-3
Tokushoryu (M2);5'11",414, 33; 3-9--3-10;(-2-4+6); 3-6
Finishing move: Okuridashi--Rear Pushout
Time: 6.1 seconds
Mano-ii (judges conference) resulted in a gyoji gunbai sashichigae (reversal of gyoji [referee] decision by judges).
For a match between two Rikishis that had a combined record of 5-19 going in, this one was quite eventful. At the start S led with a face slap and tried to get a mawashi grip with his other hand, while T tried to get an arm bar on S's other arm. S broke out of that while holding on to the mawashi grip and they both twirled around, off balance and heading for the tawara (rice straw) bales. Both stepped out before S pushed T off his feet. The Gyoji (referee) ruled S had stepped out first but the judges immediately called a conference. Replays (which I don't know if the judges get to see ?) showed that T's foot went out just before S's. The judges got it right and reversed the decision. The match itself was of little consequence in the overall context of the Tournament, except in possibly determining how many M positions each Rikishi is going to drop. S snapped a 4 match losing streak. For T, tumbling off the dohyo (ring) was a metaphor for his entire Tournament. Within 2 months he has climbed the mountain and fallen off of it. Such is the difference in schedule between an M17 (Tokushoryu's ranking before the previous [January] Tournament, which he won) and an M2 (his present ranking).
14. H 8 L 6; 6-8
Okinoumi (M2); 6'3", 368, 34; 6-6--7-6;(+2+6-6);3-0
Yutakayama (M3); 6'0", 395, 26; 7-5--7-6;(+7+7+4);0-3
Finishing move: Tsukiotoshi--Frontal Thrust Down.
Time: 9.3 seconds.
The match was even at first, with each Rikishi having an arm under the others. In the end O had a stronger grip and was able to turn and then drop Y. For Y, a 5 match winning streak came to an end. Both Rikishi need one more win for a kachi-koshi.
15*. H 8 L 7; 6-9
Daieisho (M1); 6'0",364, 26;7-5--7-6;(+4-3-5); 1-1
Enho (M4); 5'6",218, 25;4-8--5-8;(-S1+2-K);1-1
Finishing move: Hikiotoshi--Hand Pull Down (while backing away)
Time: 1st match: 3 seconds (no time given by Nikkansports.com ; 2nd match: 10.1 seconds
Mono-ii (Judges conference). In an incredibly close match with both Rikishis going out, an immediate conference was called and the match was ruled torinaoshi (too close to call). An immediate rematch was ordered.
What an amazing match this was. Actually 2 matches. In the first match E tried his signature strategy, to go low. D blocked that and then tried to push E out. They both tumbled out. The Gyoji's (referee) decision was not on camera. The judges ruled the match too close to call, which under the rules, means an immediate rematch.
The Rikishis had a little time to compose themselves and went at it again. Arms were flailing this time as D tried to lock E's arm. E escaped this and pulled away, but D, seeing an advantage, went for the push out. E evaded that, which put D off balance and headed out. E assisted the exit.
Enho, the lightest (by 25 pounds) Rikishi in the Tournament, is really being tested, having reached the M4 level. His last 9 matches, including this one, have been a stern examination. Constantly facing opponents who outweigh him by 100, 150, or even 200 pounds, these 9 matches featured 8 opponents ranked higher than he. 7 of them were San'yaku (championship rank Rikishi--K,S,O,Y). Here is his schedule for the last 9 days.
M2 (W-Okinoumi); O (L-Takakeisho); Y1-O (L-Kakuryu); M5 (W-Onosho); K1 (L-Endo); S1 (L-Asanoyama); M2 (W-Tokushoryu); K1 (L-Hokutofuji); M1 (W-Daieisho). Enho v Ms=4-0; v San'yaku=0-5
Yesterday he lost, being thrown out on his back by Hokutofuji (K1), a Rikishi who is having a disappointing tournament. H outweighs E by 139 pounds. It looked like E might have been seriously injured. He just got up, went through the post-match ritual, and left. To come back as he did today, having to fight (twice) an opponent who was wrestling for a kachi-koshi. To have fought his way to a 5-8 record, considering the gamut of a schedule he has run, as well as the tonnage he has given up, is (to this new fan of Sumo and Enho), astonishing. But it is most likely not at all astonishing to veteran fans of Sumo. He has reached M4. This is what M4s have to deal with. His record shows a make-koshi. He will probably go down in rank. Full stop.
Daieisho needs 1 more win for a kachi-koshi.
16. H 9 L 7; 7-9
Kagayaki(M6); 6'4", 366, 25; 7-5--7-6;(-3-9+2); 5-5
Endo (K1); 6'0", 337, 29; 6-6--7-6;(-3+5-Y1/O); 5-5
Finishing move: Yorikiri--Frontal Force Out (with a mawashi [belt] grip)
Time: 12.4 seconds
Endo did some very good upper body work at the start to make space to grip K's mawashi. Then he slowly drove him to the tawara (rice straw) bales. K produced stubborn defense and resisted at the bales for almost 3 seconds, but there was no escape when E, after a long struggle, was finally able to apply the double grip. E prevented K from achieving a kachi-koshi, while taking another step toward one of his own.
17. H 9 L 8 7-10
Hokutofuji (K); 6'0", 357, 27; 3-9--3-10;(-6-Y+4); 4-3
Ryuden (M5); 6'3" 340; 29; 4-8--5-8;(-O-Y1/O-S1); 3-4
Finishing move: Yorikiri--Frontal Force Out (with a mawashi [belt] grip)
Time: 14.6 seconds
H quickly established a double underarm position and inexorably drove R out...only it didn't happen. R held fast 4 times with one foot lodged against the inside of the tawara (rice straw bales), and then the match began to go the other way, with R using his hands on the upper body. The Rikishis split apart for an instant, but then R was able to drive in and get a grip on the back of H's mawashi to finish. For H it was a match of missed opportunities. For R it was a tremendous defensive stand that turned defeat into victory and ended a 5 match losing streak. There is a possibility that these two may pass each other in the rankings before the next tournament, each going in the wrong direction, but one cascading down much faster.
18. H 10 L 8 8-10
Abi (M4); 6'1", 342, 25; 5-7--5-8; (-1+O-3); 4-5
Shodai (S1); 6'0", 377, 28; 6-6--7-6;(+O-Y1/O+Y); 5-4
Finishing move: Oshitaoshi--Frontal Push Down
Time: 10.9 seconds
As in the previous match, Abi missed out on a great opportunity, his slap attack seeming to flummox S. Abi got him to the tawara (rice straw bales) (indeed at one time S had one foot on top of the bale but couldn't finish, allowing S to come back. As A had no leverage with this attack, S was able to escape. Abi attempted to get something like a head lock but by this time S was moving too fast, drove him to the other side of the dohyo (ring), and put him down, the force of the push extending S horizontally so that he fell flat on his stomach as well. This match was important for both. Abi's loss gave him a make-koshi. Shodai finished a brutal stretch of 4 matches before this one: S1 (L-Asanoyama)l O (W-Takakeisho); Y1-O (L-Kakuryu); and Y (W-Hakuho). This was (in my opinion) a more than respectable split. One more win guarantees him a kachi-koshi. But Abi gave him a very tough match indeed.
19.* H 11 L 8; 9-10
Takakeisho (O); 5'9", 373, 28; 6-6--6-7; (-S1-4+5); 1-3
Kakuryu (Y1-O); 6'1", 344, 34;10-2--11-2;(+5+S1+K); 3-1
Finishing move: Yorikiri--Frontal Force out (with a mawashi [belt] grip)
Time: 9.7 seconds
This was the first of 2 marquee matches to finish the day. Mongolian born K wanted no part of T getting inside, so he kept him away with a slap attack. He found his opening while the two were apart, a big enough opening to get a single and then double mawashi grip, which he used to escort T out of the dohyo (ring). It was K's 7th consecutive win and kept him in a tie for the lead for Championship honors. Takakeisho must wi achieve a kachi-koshi in order to remain an Ozeki (he won't lose the rank immediately, but will have a chance to redeem himself in the next Tournament--see Ozeki above.
20.* H 12 L 8 10-10
Asanoyama (S1); 6'2", 390, 26; 10-2--10-3;(+4+5+9); 0-2
Hakuho (Y); 6'4", 348, 35; 10-2--11-2;(-5+K1-S1);2-0
Finishing move: Oshidashi--Frontal Push Out
Time: 3 seconds
In this marquee match of the day, both Championship and promotion context were involved. The two Rikishis were tied for 2nd place at the beginning of the day, but after Aoiyama's defeat earlier, a tie for first place was on the line. In addition, Asanoyama needed 2 more victories to get the 33 in 3 matches that he needs for a promotion to Ozeki. In this match, Mongolian born Hakuho used his speed to beat Asanoyama to the "punch" and quickly pushed him out for an emphatic win after his surprising loss on D 12.
Finishing moves:
Yorikiri--Frontal Force Out: 7
Oshidashi--Frontal Push Out: 3
Okuridashi--Rear Push Out: 3
Hikiotashi--Hand Pull Down: 2
Uwatenage--Overarm Throw: 1
Tsukidashe--Frontal Thrust Out: 1
Sukuinage--Beltless Arm Throw: 1
Tsukiotashi--Thrust Down: 1
Oshitaoshi--Frontal Push Down: 1
Pushes or Forces: 14; Pulls, Throws, or Thrusts 6
+++
Heavier Rikishi v Lighter 8-11-1
<300 pounds 1-2 >399 pounds 2-4
+++
Total time of 20 matches: 150 seconds (2 minutes 30 seconds).
Average time per match: 7.5 seconds.
Shortest match: 2 seconds: (#3: Chiyotairyu (M11) v Meisei (M17))
Longest match: 16 seconds: (#12: Takarafuji (M7) v Mitakeumi (M3))
===========================
Day 12 featured a huge upset that changed the complexion of the entire Tournament. Yokozuna Grand Champion Hakuho, was upset by S1 Shodai, which left him at 10-2, along with Asanoyama (S1--who is also looking for 12 wins to be promoted to Ozeki) and Yokozuna 1-Ozeki Kakuryu. And another excellent win by Aioyama (M13) put him in the "driver's seat", as he now controls his own fate with a 1 match lead at 11-1. If he wins his remaining matches, he will be the Yusho (Champion). It looks like a fantastic finish is in store.
On Day 12 the higher ranked Rishiki split the 20 matches against the lower.
San'yaku (championship rank Rishiki)
Yokozuna 1-1
Ozeki 1-0
Sekiwaki 2-0
Komusubi 1-1
kachi-koshi
Day 11
Aoiyama (M13) 11-1
Hakuho (Yokozuna Grand Champion) 10-2
Kakuryu (Y1-O)* 10-2
Asanoyama (S1) 10-2
Mitakeumi (M3) 9-3
Takanosho (M9) 9-3
Added Day 12
Kaisei (M14) 8-4
Takarafuji (M7) 8-4
Ishiura End(M12) 8-4
Important Day 13 Matchups
7. Takanosho (M9) 9-3 v Aoiyama (M13) 11-1
19. Takakeisho (O) 6-6 v Kakuryu (Y1-O) 10-2
20. Hakuho (Y) 10-2 v Asanayama (S1) 10-2
make-koshi
Day 11
Nishikigi (M14) 4-8
Sadanoumi (M10) 4-8
Tamawashi (M7) 3-9
Myogiryu (M6) 3-9
Tokushoryu(M2)January honbasho winner 3-9
Hotukofugi(K) 3-9
Shohozan (M8) 2-10
Tochiozan (M10) 1-11
Tsurogishu(M15) 1-4-6*
Takayasu (M1) 0-5-6*
*=Did not participate (usually due to injury)
Added Day 12
Enho (M4) 4-8
Ryuden (M5) 4-8
Sadanoumi (M10) 4-8
Nishikigi (M14) 4-8
+++
My Day 12 "line score"
Key:
Line 1: Match Number: Higher Rank W; Lower Rank W; My running record for the day.
Line 2-3: Rikishi v Rikishi (Bold=winner; Bold=loser; Italics=my pick). Next to each Rikishi: Rank; Dimensions (height, weight, age); record to date in the Tournament; record in the last 3 matches before this one changed to chronological +r or -r where r is ranking--all Ms are listed as number only); head to head career record before this match;
Line 4: Finishing Move
Time of the match
Comments.
Note that Rikishi are in the order of what side of the dohyo (ring) they entered.
Links to information about the Rikishi is available at the NHK Sumo Page
Career information is available at SR (click on the Rikishi link).
Note: any J1 matches listed below were Juryo Tournament substitutes for Chiyomaru (M15), who missed 2 matches after running a high temperature earlier in the Tournament.
Key:
Line 1: Match Number: Higher Rank W; Lower Rank W; My running record for the day.
Line 2-3: Rikishi v Rikishi (Bold=winner; Bold=loser; Italics=my pick). Next to each Rikishi: Rank; Dimensions (height, weight, age); record to date in the Tournament; record in the last 3 matches before this one changed to chronological +r or -r where r is ranking--all Ms are listed as number only); head to head career record before this match;
Line 4: Finishing Move
Time of the match
Comments.
Note that Rikishi are in the order of what side of the dohyo (ring) they entered.
Links to information about the Rikishi is available at the NHK Sumo Page
Career information is available at SR (click on the Rikishi link).
Note: any J1 matches listed below were Juryo Tournament substitutes for Chiyomaru (M15), who missed 2 matches after running a high temperature earlier in the Tournament.
1. H 0 L 1; 1-0
Kotoshogiku (M13); 5'11",390,36; 6-5--6-6;(+10,-16,+15);1-1
Nishikigi (M14), 6'1", 397,29; 3-8--4-8;(+8,+10,-8); 1-1
Finishing move: Hikiotoshi--Hand Pull Down (backing away)
Time: 3.1 seconds
K had the best of this match until he tried to push N and lost his balance. N took a long time to get started but has now won 3 of his last 4. Each win is important in determining how far he will go down in the rankings and he has a clear sense of that. K still needs 2 wins for his kachi-koshi.
2. H 1 L 1; 2-0
Ishiura (M12); 5'9", 243, 30; 7-4--8-4;(+12-14+9); 0-0
Kotonowaka:(M18); 6'2", 381, 22; 7-4--7-5; (+J1-11-13);0-0
Finishing move: Oshitaoshi--Frontal Push Down
Time: 9.3 seconds
Ishiura was on the attack from the very beginning of this match and his reward was a kachi-koshi tournament. He is great to watch, putting in an excellent performance in this tournament, in my opinion. K is still having an excellent debut, but this was his 3rd consecutive loss.
3. H 2 L 1; 2-1
Meisei (M17); 5'10",331, 24; 5-6--5-7;(-14+12+10);3-4
Terutsuyoshi (M11); 5'7", 265, 25; 7-4--8-4);(-16+18+16);4-3
Finishing move: Yorikiri--Frontal Force Out (with a mawashi [belt] grip)
Time: 1.8 seconds
T brilliantly evaded M's opening charge, turned him around while grabbing his mawashi, and escorted him out of the dohyo (ring), as efficient a victory as you will see. His reward. A kochi-koshi for the Tournament. Meisei must win out in order to get his. With his ranking, if he doesn't, he may be headed back to the Juryo (2nd tier) rank.
4. H 3 L 1; 2-2
Sadanoumi(M10): 6'0", 322, 32; 3-8--4-8;(-6-7-17); 4-2
Azumaryu (M16); 6'3", 362, 32; 5-6--5-7;(-17+13-11);2-4
Finishing move: Yorikiri Frontal Force Out (with a mawashi--belt grip)
Time: 11.1 seconds.
This was an epic battle. A attempted but failed to get a mawashi grip. He then got S's arm in a vice grip. He held onto that arm for rest of the match, trying but failing to throw S. The arm was still in the grip while S got a mawashi grip on A and forced him out. A still had the arm as he left the premises. An excellent win for S, in my opinion. And a loss that could be very damaging to A.
5. H 3 L 2; 2-3
Daiamami (M17); 6'0", 412; 27; 4-7--5-7;(+14-J1-12); 1-3
Tochiozan(M10); 6'2", 344, 33; 1-10--1-11;(-13-14+7);3-1
Finishing move: Yorikiri Frontal Force Out (with a mawashi--belt grip)
Time: 4.8 seconds
Daiamami won the tachi-ai (initial charge) and established a mawashi grip. Tochiozan had no answer. The win kept D's faint kochi-koshi hopes alive. Tochiozan looked tired and "beat up" to me, with one hamstring taped and the other calf wrapped.
6. H 3 L 3; 2-4
Chiyomaru (M15); 5'11",428, 28;5-4-2--6-4-2;(xx-13);0-3
Tochinosin (M9) 6'3", 390, 32, 5-6--5-7; (-6+8+6);3-0
Finishing move: Tsukiotoshi--Thrust Down.
Time: 3.3 seconds
C grabbed at T's chin and drew him in. He used that momentum to throw down his opponent, shaking off the rust that clearly showed in his return to action yesterday. Tochinosin's (originally from Georgia) window of opportunity for a kachi-koshi, after two consecutive wins over higher ranked opponents, narrowed considerably.
7. H 3 L 4; 3-4
Shohozan (M8); 5'9", 306, 36; 2-9--2-10;(-14-9-16); 10-9
Kaisei (M14);6'4" 441, 32; 7-4--8-4;(+17+12+11); 9-10
Finishing move: Yorikiri Force Out--with a mawashi (belt) grip
Time: 21.7 seconds
This was a battle in two parts. 1st, S got a grip under K's armpits, but could do little with it so went for his mawashi, while K also got a grip on S's. K picked up S and tried to take him out, but couldn't. S turned K around and it looked for an instant like he would be the one doing the "out taking". But he couldn't either, and then the match turned into a battle of attrition in the middle, both Rikishi gripping the other's mawashi. In the end, it was K's bulk that wore S down. K very gently took him out, guaranteeing a kachi-koshi for him. A word should be said for Shohozan's spirited battle, however. It is almost unimaginable how strong a man must be to withstand this kind of brute force strategy while fighting off a Rikishi who outweighs him by 135 pounds.
8. H 4 L 4; 3-5
Shimanoumi (M16);5'10',364, 30; 6-5--6-6;(+11-13+8); 0-1
Kiribayama (M8); 6'0", 304, 23; 5-6--6-6;(-7-11+14); 1-0
Finishing move: Yorikiri Force Out--with double front mawashi grip)
Time: 10.7 seconds
Kiribayama established a double front mawashi grip at the tachi-ai (initial charge) and never let it go, despite S's desparate attempts to get loose. It was like a boa wrapping itself around it's prey, in this case prey that was considerably larger than the predator. 10 seconds later, still with S's mawashi in both his hands, K ended it.Both Rishiki are still in the running for kachi-koshi, but Shimanoumi is in a bit more peril at the moment.
9. H 5 L 4; 4-5
Takarafuji (M7); 6'1", 370, 33; 7-4--8-4;(+8+9-3);8-8
Chiyotairyu (M11); 5'11", 423, 31; 7-4--7-5;(-13+8-14);8-8
Finishing move: Tsukiotoshi--Thrust Down
Time: 4.1 seconds
C blasted off at the tachi-ai (initial charge), going after T's face with thrusts and pushes. He seemed to have the advantage, on the offensive and driving T back. But he was a little too uncontrolled with his aggression, in my opinion, and his balance wasn't the greatest. T fended off the initial charge and struck at the first opportunity, using C's aggression to his advantage when a huge opening came, which he capitalized on with the thrust down. An excellent and very intelligent way for him to obtain his kachi-koshi. C has 2 chances to get the 1 win he needs for his.
10. H 5 L 5; 4-6
Ikioi (M12); 6'4", 390, 33; 6-5--7-5;(-12-17+17); 3-8
Tamawashi (M7); 6'2", 379, 35; 3-8--3-9;(-9-10-10); 8-3
Finishing move: Hatakikome--Slap Down
Time: 8 seconds
Arms and hands were flailing all over the place as these two tried to literally smash each other out of the dohyo (ring), neither really in control. In the end, Ikioi found an opening to slap his Mongolian born opponent to a make-koshi (losing tournament). It was a bit of a surprise, considering how T has dominated I in their career matchups. With the win, Ikioi is just one win from a kachi-koshi. If they both continue on their perspective trajectories, they may switch ranks.
11. H 6 L 5; 5-6
Yutakayama (M3); 6'0", 395, 26; 6-5--7-5;(+6+7+7); 3-2
Abi (M4); 6'1", 342, 25; 5-6--5-7; (-Y1/O-1+O);2-3
Finishing move: Tsukiotoshi--Thrust Down
Time: 6.1 seconds
This was another thrust and push match, with Abi targeting Y's neck and face. He pushed Y back, but in the process got a bit out of balance. Y was able to put out a leg for Abi to stumble over, which allowed Y to finish the proceedings. The result put each Rikishi within one match of...kachi-koshi on the one hand, and make-koshi on the other. This was Y's 5th consecutive win.
12*. H 6 L 6; 5-7
Aoiyama (M13); 6'3", 425, 33; 10-1--11-1;(+11+16+18);3-4
Mitakeumi (M3); 5'11",386, 27; 9-2--9-3;(+K+K+1); 4-3
Finishing move: Oshidashi--Frontal Push Out
Time: 6.4 seconds
This was the Marquee match of the day. Aoiyama (born in Bulgaria) came in with a 7 and 4 match winning streaks sandwiched around his only loss. Mitakeumi sandwiched 6 and 3 match winning streaks around his losses, both to Yokozunas. It looked like a great match up, but Aoiyama put that all to bed with 6 seconds of absolute domination. He blasted out of the blocks and almost ended the match in its first 2 seconds. M somehow escaped, but no matter. Aioyoma relentlessly pursued him and took care of business the second time he attacked. 4 seconds after the 1st burst, it was all over.
Aoiynama fell to M13 after a K ranking on the heels of 5 consecutive crushing tournaments in which he finished 6-9, 7-8, 5-10, 6-9, and 4-11 (28-47--.373). But he is a well worn veteran, who has won over 350 top rank matches, including one 2nd place finish. He has been ranked as high as S, 2 ranks from Yokozuna. He has been a Sumo for over 10 years. He has 1 Kinboshi (Gold Star Win--win over a Yokozuna), and, after this match... well, let's not get too excited.
What I learned from this match is that rank is "hard to figure," It is based on the Tournament before. All the numbers, as well as opponents faced, seemed to favor Mitakeumi (even though 1 of the K's he beat [Hokotofuji] is having a forgettable tournament, and Ks in general are always in flux because their promotion immediately makes their schedules much more difficult). But I was taught a powerful lesson in 6 seconds. The loss most likely knocked M out of Yusho (Championship) contention.
13. H 6 L 7 5-8
Okinoumi (M2); 6'3", 368, 34; 6-5--6-6;(-1+2+6);4-3
Kagayaki (M6); 6'4", 366, 25; 6-5--7-5;(+10-3-9)3-4
Finishing move: Oshidashi--Frontal Push Out
Time: 7.9 seconds
Okinoumi got one hand on the Mawashi and the other underneath the arm of K, but K quickly turned things around by getting both arms under the arms of O. That was a position O could not survive. K is now 1 win from a kachi-koshi. O still has a chance for his, but his path got narrower after this match.
14. H 6 L 8; 5-9
Myogiryu (M6); 6'2", 346, 33; 3-8--3-9; 2-1;(+9+K-2);6-5
Tokushoryu (M2); 5'11",414, 33; 2-9--3-9; 1-2;(+5-2-4);5-6
Finishing move: Tsukiotoshi--Thrust Down
Time: 2.9 seconds
M charged out with a head slap and then tried to get at T's mawashi. While that was happening, T was working on M's other arm, got him off balance, and finished him off. Both are having forgettable tournaments, but there still is a lot to wrestle for, to keep the bleeding to a minimum with regard to losing rank.
15. H 6 L 9; 5-10
Daieisho (M1); 6'0", 364, 26; 7-4--7-5; 3-0;(+2+4-3);4-6
Onosho (M5); 5'10",346, 23; 6-5--7-5; 1-2;(-7+Y-K);6-4
Finishing move: Yoritaoshi--Frontal Crush Out
Time: 4.1 seconds
After a momentary stalemate at the outset, O was able to get hold of D's mawashi with one hand and get his other arm under D's arm. From there he drove D to the edge and crushed him out. D's 6 or 7 match winning streak came to an abrupt end. He still needs 1 more win for a kachi-koshi. Now Onosho is also only 1 win away as well.
16. H 7 L 9 5-11
Hokutofuji (K); 6'0", 357, 27; 2-9--3-9;(-3-6-Y); 0-0
Enho (M4);5'6", 218, 25; 4-7--4-8;(-K-S1+2);0-0
Finishing move: Kimetaoshi--Arm Barring Force Down
Time: 10.5 seconds
E attempted to go low and grab H's mawashi and got one hand on it. But he could do nothing and before he knew it H had both his arms in a vice grip. Enho tried to escape and actually moved his opponent, who outweighed him by 139 pounds, but that went nowhere either. H carried him to the edge and then slammed him down. E was still holding on to the one hand grip on the mawashi. The loss consigned E to a make-koshi, H broke a 6 or 7 match losing streak.
17.* H 8 L 9 6-11
Asanoyama (S1); 6'2", 390, 26; 9-2--10-2;(+S1+4+5); 0-0
Takanosho (M9); 6'0", 359, 25; 9-2--9-3;(-7+12+12);0-0
Finishing move: Oshitaoshi--Frontal Push Down
Time: 5.8 seconds
This was the 2nd big match of the day, with Asanoyama looking for 12 wins to be promoted to Ozeki, as well as staying in the hunt for the championship. Takanosho is guaranteed a promotion, but also wanted to stay in the championship hunt. He has had a great tournament. Both Rikishi were trying to establish upper body dominance, but it was A who got T off balance then finished. A, who was in trouble after a disappointing loss to M3 Yutakayama on Day 8, has responded with 4 consecutive wins.
18.* H 9 L 9 7-11
Takakeisho (O); 5'9", 373, 28; 5-6--6-6;(-3-S1-4);3-1
Ryuden (M5); 6'3" 340; 29; 4-7--4-8;(-Y-Y1O-S1);1-3
Finishing move: Tsukiotoshi--Thrust Down
Time: 2.2 seconds
This was the third big match of the day, with T desparately needing a win in order to earn a kachi-koshi, which will protect his rank (he won't lose the rank immediately, but will have a chance to redeem himself in the next Tournament --see Ozeki above). He took care of business quickly, getting R off balance then putting him down. Ryuden is in a murderous stretch where he has not faced another M since D 7 when he beat Shohozan (M8). Since then he has faced:
S1 Shodai; Y Hakuho, Y1/O Kakuryu, S1Asanoyama, and O Takakeisho. And the road gets no easier on D 13 when he faces K Hakutofuji, who is desparate for wins. Ryuden's promising 4-3 start has turned into a 5 match nightmare. Such is life for a M5.
19*. H 9 L 10 7-12
Hakuho (Y); 6'4", 348, 35; 10-1--10-2;(+5-5+K); 9-1
Shodai (S1); 6'0", 377, 28; 5-6--6-6;(-S1+O-Y1O);1-9
Finishing move: Yorikiri Force Out (with a Mawashi [belt] grip)
Time: 8.3 seconds
Shodai has been blasting out with hands and arms flailing in his last few matches. This time Hakuho tried to keep him at bay with 5 head slaps and an attempted knock down using the top of S's head. None of it worked as the S1 kept coming and found the Grand Champion's mawashi. Shortly after, it was all over. Hakuho has now lost 2 of his last 3 and finds himself looking up at from 2nd place at Aoiyama (M13). Shodai kept his kachi-koshi hopes alive, needing to win 2 of his last 3 matches to get there.
For Shodai, this was his 2nd Kinboshi (Gold Star Win). His first came in July 2017 against Haramafuji.
20. H 10 L 10; 8-12
Endo (K); 6'0", 337, 29; 6-5--6-6;(+4-3+5); 3-12
Kakuryu(Y1-O);6'1", 344, 34; 9-2--10-2;(+4+5+S1);12-3
Finishing move: Uwatenage--Overarm Throw
Time: 2.5 seconds
It seemed like Day 12's Musubi no ichiban (final match of the day) would never happen. Two stand ups by E sandwiched around a false start by K, followed by another stand up by E delayed the proceedings. They didn't last long as K grabbed E's mawashi with one hand while grabbing his neck with the other. He quickly spun him around and down. It was a clinical victory. And it moved K into a 2nd place tie with Hakuho and Asamoyama (S1). This Tournament, which has played out in sleepy silence, has suddenly come alive!
+++
Finishing moves
6. Yorikiri--Frontal Force Out (with a mawashi [belt] grip)
5. Tsukiotoshi--Thrust Down
2. Oshidashi--Frontal Push Out
2. Oshitaoshi--Frontal Push Down
1. Yoritaoshi--Frontal Crush Out
1. Hikiotoshi--Hand Pull Down (backing away)
1. Kimetaoshi--Arm Barring Force Down
1. Hatakikome--Slap Down
1. Uwatenage--Overarm Throw
Force/Push/Crush Out/Downs 12; Pull/Thrust/ Downs: 7; Throws 1
+++
Heavier v Lighter: 13-7
<300 pounds: 2-1
>399 pounds: 5-1
+++
Heavier v Lighter: 13-7
<300 pounds: 2-1
>399 pounds: 5-1
+++
Total time for all matches: 129.6 seconds (2 minutes, 9.6 seconds)
Average time per match: 10.4 seconds
Shortest match: 2.2 seconds (#18: Takakeisho (O) v Ryuden (M5))
Longest match: 18.2 seconds (#7: Shohozan (M8) v Kaisei (M14))
===============
Day 11
Day 11 saw a solid margin of victory (13-7) by higher ranked Rishiki.
San'yaku (championship rank) Rishiki.
Yokozuna: 2-0
Ozeki: 0-1
Sekiwaki: 1-1
Komusubi: 1-1
It also saw the progress of several individual stories regarding Rishiki who need to have kachi-koshi (winning tournament records), which usually means promotion, or avoid make-koshi (losing tournament records) to keep from being demoted.
Through Day 11
kachi-koshi
Hakuho (Yokozuna Grand Champion) 10-1
Aoiyama (M13) 10-1
Kakuryu (Y1-O)* 9-2
Asanoyama (S1) 9-2
Mitakayme (M3) 9-2
Takanosho (M9) 9-2
*=Grand Champion gets the simple Y rank. Other Yokozunas, when present, get Y1 rank. Because there is only one Ozeki in this tournament, Kakuryu has been ranked Yokozuna 1-Ozeki). As a Yokozuna, he still cannot be demoted.
Upcoming important Day 12 match ups
12. Aoiyama (M13) 10-1 v Mitakayme (M3) 9-2
17. Asanoyoma (S1) 9-2 v Takanosho (M9) 9-2
18. Takakeisho (O) 5-6 v Ryuden (M5) 4-7
19, HAKUHO (Y) 10-1 v Shodai (S1) 5-6
20. Endo (K) 6-5 v Kakuryu (Y1-O) 9-2
make-koshi
Nishikigi (M14) 3-8
Tamawashi (M7) 3-8
Sadanoumi (M10) 3-8
Myogiryu (M6) 3-8
Tokushoryu(M2)January honbasho winner 2-9
Hotukofugi(K) 2-9
Shohozan (M8) 2-9
Tsurogishu(M15) 1-4-6*
Tochiozan (M10) 1-10
Takayasu (M1) 0-5-6*
*=Did not participate (usually due to injury)
My record for the day was 11-8 (one recusal). My Day record is now 8 wins; 1 loss; and 2 days I didn't participate. (This is how Rishiki records are presented). It means, for whatever it is worth, that my first tournament is a kachi-koshi :). I will enjoy that, continue to do my best, and always attempt to keep learning, kachi- or make-koshi.
My "line score"
Key:
Line 1: Match Number: Higher Rank W; Lower Rank W; My running record for the day.
Line 2-3: Rikishi v Rikishi (Bold=winner Italics=my pick). Next to each Rikishi: Rank; Dimensions (height, weight, age); record to date in the Tournament; record in the last 3 matches before this one; head to head career record before this match;
Line 4: Finishing Move
Comments.
Note that Rikishi are in the order of what side of the dohyo (ring) they entered.
Links to information about the Rikishi is available at the NHK Sumo Page
Career information is available at SR (click on the Rikishi link).
*1. H 1 L 0; 1-0
Kotonowaka: (M18); 6'2", 381, 22; 7-3--7-4; 2-1; 0-0
Aoiyama (M13); 6;3', 425, 33;9-1--10-1; 3-0; 0-0
Finishing move: Tsukidashi--Frontal Thrust Out
Time: 7.2 seconds
An excellent match to begin with. Rookie K, who has gotten off to a great start, has his first "big match" against, A, who yesterday broke a 5 Tournament make-koshi (losing tournament) streak by winning his first 7 matches, and is tied for the lead in the Tournament. K fights well, but can't stop the Bulgarian from winning again.
2. H 2 L 0; 1-1
Kotoshogiku ( M13); 5'11", 390, 36; 5-5--6-5; 1-2; 0-2
Chiyomaru (M15); 5'11, 428, 28;5-3-2--5-4-2; xx;2-0
Finishing move: Yorikiri--Frontal Force Out (with a mawashi [belt] grip
Time: 3.9 seconds
Chiyomaru came back after three days out, having run a temperature. Had he tested positive for coronavirus, the Tournament would most likely have been canceled. Thankfully for the Tournament, and especially for him, he tested negative. He was a bit "rusty" with the time off, and I should have incorporated that into my thinking about the pick.
3. H 3 L 0; 2-1
Daiamami(M17); 6'0", 412; 27; 4-6--4-7; 1-2; 5-1
Ikioi (M12); 6'4", 390, 33; 5-5--6-5; 1-2; 1-5
Finishing move: Yorikiri--Frontal Force out (usually with a mawashi [belt] grip
Time: 18.2 seconds
Daiamami slipped closer to a make-koshi with this loss, his 3rd in the last 4 matches. Given his present ranking he could be dropped to Juryo (2nd tier) after this Tournament.
4. H 4 L 0; 3-1
Azumaryu (M16); 6'3", 362, 32; 5-5--5-6; 1-2; 2-3
Terutsuyoshi (M11); 5'7", 265, 25; 6-4--7-4; 1-2; 3-2
Finishing move: Oshidashi--Frontal Push Out
Time: 1.9 seconds
T likes to throw a lot of salt (to purify the ring), an enormous handful. (Most Rishiki are much less generous with the salt). But he is also an extremely powerful man, as can be seen by the fact that he used a "power move" to beat a man who outweighed him by 100 pounds.
5. H 4 L 1; 4-1
Chiyotairyu (M11); 5'11", 423, 31; 7-3--7-4; 2-1; 4-12
Kaisei (M14); 6'4" 441, 32; 6-4--7-4; 3-0; 12-4
Finishing move: Yorikiri--Frontal Force out (usually with a Mawashi--belt grip)
Times: 6 seconds
In a battle of the giants, the Brazilian won his 4th consecutive match to move within 1 victory of a kachi-koshi while denying C his for at least one more day.
6. H 4 L 2; 4-2
Sadanoumi (M10): 6'0", 322, 32; 3-7--3-8; 0-3; 5-2
Meisei (M17); 5'10",331, 24; 4-6--5-6; 1-2; 2-5
Finishing move-: Hikkake--Arm Grabbing Force Out
Time: 3.1 seconds
M's win doomed S to a make-koshi and almost certain drop in the rankings. It was S's 4th consecutive defeat.
7. H 5 L 2; 4-3
Takanosho (M9); 6'0", 359, 25; 8-2--9-2; 2-1; 2-4
Ishiura (M12); 5'9", 243, 30; 7-3--7-4; 2-1; 4-2
Finishing move: Oshidashi--Frontal Push Out
Time: 4.8 seconds
Ishiura had won 2 of his last 3 matches against Kaisei (6'4" 441--L Oshidashi--Frontal Push Out); Ikioi (6'4" 390--W--Okuridashi--Rear Push Out) and Nishikigi (6'1" 397--Katasukashi--Under Shoulder Swing Down). So fighting an opponent who "only" outweighed him by 116 pounds might have been a relief. But this opponent is having a great tournament and is in contention for the big prize. In this match he did not let Ishiura use his quickness and evasiveness, locking his elbow and escorting him out of the dohyo (ring). Ishiura has 4 more chances to get the 1 more win he needs for a kachi-koshi.
8. H 6 L 2; 4-4
Nishikigi (M14) 6'1", 397, 29; 3-7--3-8; 2-1; 0-0
Kiribayama (M8) 6'0", 304, 23; 4-6--5-6; 0-3; 0-0
Finishing move: Okurinage--Rear Throw Down
Time: 6.4 seconds
The young Mongolian Rishiki turned the tables on N, snapping a 4 match losing streak and keeping his hopes of a kachi-koshi alive (though winning 3 of the last 4 will be a tall order), while N was consigned to a make-koshi.
9. H 6 L 3; 5-4
Shohozan (M8); 5'9", 306, 36; 2-8--2-9; 2-1; 1-2
Shimanoumi(M16); 5'10',364, 30; 5-5--6-5; 2-1; 2-1
Finishing move: Oshidashi--Frontal Push Out
Time: 7.3 seconds
Shi kept his hopes of a kachi-koshi alive. winning his 3rd in the last 4. For Sho it is a matter of how far he will drop in the rankings.
10. H 7 L 3; 5-5
Tochiozan (M10); 6'2", 344, 33; 0-10--1-10; 0-3; 13-3
Tamawashi (M7); 6'2", 379, 35; 3-7--3-8; 1-2; 3-13
Finishing move: Hatakikomi--Slap Down
Time: 1.7 seconds
Toc's 1st win doomed Tam to a make-koshi.
11. H 7 L 4; 5-6
Tochinosin (M9); 6'3", 390, 32; 4-6--5-6; 2-1; 4-0
Kagayaki (M6); 6'4", 366, 25; 6-4--6-5; 2-1; 0-4
Finishing move: Hatakikomi--Slap Down
Time: 1.2 seconds
The veteran Georgian Rikishi, who has been fighting injuries as well as opponents, overpowered K to move his career record against this opponent to
5-0 while moving to within 1 match of him in the standings.
12. H 8 L 4; 6-6
Yutakayama (M3); 6'0", 395, 26; 5-5--6-5; 3-0; 2-1
Takarafuji (M7); 6'1", 370, 33; 7-3--7-4; 3-0; 1-2
Finishing move: Oshidashi--Frontal Push Out
Time: 14.8 seconds
T came into this match looking very impressive and hoping for a kachi-koshi win, but he was up against a man with a much tougher schedule. High ranked Ms have to face San'yakus (Ks, Ss, Os, and Yokozuna's) as well as other Ms. M7s usually only fight other Ms. In his last 3 matches Y defeated 1 M, Takakeisho (O), and Asanoyama (S). So it isn't terribly surprising that he overpowered T.
Enho (M4); 5'6", 218, 25; 3-7--4-7; 1-2; 3-2
Tokushoryu (M2); 5'11", 414, 33; 2-8--2-9; 1-2; 2-3
Finishing move: Tsukiotoshi--Thrust Down
Time: 2.9 seconds
Mono-ii (Judges conference). Judges confirmed Giyoji (referee) decision
Enho, on the verge of being pushed out, suddenly slipped away to the side and helped T, who lost balance, down and out. It was a close call that the judges conferred on. As Endo's foot barely stayed on the rice straw bale (that markes the circumference of the dohyo [ring]) as he sent his opponent to his 9th defeat. The toast of Sumo two months ago has found the going much tougher in this Tournament. Enho still has a glimmer of hope for a kachi-koshi, but must win out to achieve it. Tokoshoryu, who was promoted from M17 toM2 after his great 14-1 Yusho (Championship) in January, will be going down after this tournament. How far down remains to be seen.
14. H 9 L 5; 7-7
Okinoumi (M2); 6'3", 368, 34; 5-5--6-5; 2-1; 12-12
Myogiryu (M6); 6'2", 346, 33; 3-7--3-8; 2-1; 12-12
Finishing move: Yorikiri--Frontal Force out (usually with a Mawashi--belt grip)
Time: 9.3 seconds
O made sure that M would have a make-koshi tournament with this win. He needs 2 more for his kachi-koshi.
15.* H 9 L 6; 8-7
Daieisho (M1); 6'0", 364, 26; 7-3--7-4; 3-0; 3-7
Mitakeumi (M3); 5'11",386, 27; 8-2--9-2; 2-1; 7-3
Finishing move: Okuridashi--Rear Push Out
Time: 6 seconds
High stakes were riding on this match. D was the hottest Rikishi in the Tournament, with a 7 match winning streak. M, whose last 2 wins have come over Endo and Hokutofuji (both Ks), is perhaps envisioning a promotion to the K rank, as well as staying in contention for this Tournament championship. It looked like D had his 8th win, but as he was trying to push M out, M slipped away, turned around and pushed D out instead. A tremendous "comeback win for M.
16. H 10 L 6; 9-7
Onosho (M5); 5'10", 346, 23; 6-4--6-5; 1-2; 1-4
Endo (K); 6'0", 337, 29; 5-5--6-5; 1-2; 4-
Finishing move: Yorikiri--Frontal Force out (usually with a Mawashi--belt grip)
Time: 3.3 seconds
O earned a Kinboshi (Gold Star Victory) over Grand Champion Yokozuna on D 10. It was a decisive win. Endo was unimpressed. As O crashed into him trying to force him out, D used O's momentum to turn the tables for a very stylish win. Each of them need 2 more wins for a kachi-koshi. But the stakes are higher for Endo, as he risks demotion to M with a make-koshi.
17. H 11; L 6; 10-7
Asanoyama (S1); 6'2", 390, 26; 8-2--9-2; 2-1; -5
Ryuden (M5); 6'3" 340; 29; 4-6--4-7; 0-3; 5-7
Finishing move: Yorikiri--Frontal Force out (usually with a Mawashi--belt grip)
Time: 5.3 seconds
It is crunch time for A, who needs 12 wins for the 33 in 3 tournaments he needs to guarantee promotion to Ozeki. Slumping R was no match for him. After a standoff at the beginning, A was able to get a double grip on R's mawashi (belt). And that was that.
18. H 11 A 7; 10-8
Takakeisho (O); 5'9", 373, 28; 5-5--5-6; 1-2; 2-1
Abi (M4);6'1", 342, 25; 4-6--5-6; 0-3; 1-2
Finishing move: Oshidashi--Frontal Pushout
Time: 5.8 seconds
The depths of the slump that T is enduring can be seen by the fact that A broke a 3 match losing streak. T got off to a positive start, driving his opponent to the tawara (rice straw bales), but couldn't finish the job. Abi held firm, and finally moved away, around, and turned the tables. There has been some talk that T is fighting with an injury, but... He is in danger of a make-koshi tournament which could possibly, in the near future, (not after this Tournament--see Ozeki link above) jeopardize his rank.
19. H 12 A 7; 11-8
Shodai (S1); 6'0", 377, 28; 5-5--5-6; 2-1; 0-12
Kakuryu (Y1-O); 6'1", 344, 34; 8-2--9-2; 2-1; 12-0
Finishing move: Oshidashi--Frontal Push Out
Time: 5.8 seconds
At one point, earlier in the Tournament, K looked a bit vulnerable. After he was beaten by Tokoshoryu (M2), resulting in the first Kinboshi (Gold Star Win) of the Tournament, he was 4-2. Since then he has won 4 in a row and looks anything but vulnerable. Shodai threw "the kitchen sink" at him, flailing viciously. K absorbed the punishment while looking for an opening, which h soon found. Then he easily escorted S off the premisis. As in all sports, one of the things that makes the greats great is how easy they make it look. Shodai was fighting for hisranking. A make-koshi could drop him to K rank. Mongolian born Kakuryu is still right in the thick of contenders for the Championship. He is one match behind Yokozuna Grand Champion Hakuho and the surprising Aioyoma (M13). Note that as there is only 1 Ozeki in the field, K has been given a Y1-O ranking.
20. H13 A7; 11-8 (Recused) I already knew who won this match before it was fought.
Hakuho (Y); 6'4", 348, 35; 9-1--10-1; 2-1; 6-3
Hokutofuji (K); 6'0", 357, 27; 2-8--2-9; 0-3; 3-6
Finishing move: Oshidashi--Frontal Push Out
Time: 1.7 seconds
Yokkozuna Grand Champion Hakuko was beaten by Onosho (M5) on Day 10, the 2nd Kinboshi (Gold Star Win) of the Tournament. Hakuho was going to make sure that didn't happen again., Which was unfortunate for Hokutofuji, who is having a very difficult tournament, and will surely be demoted to M rank when it is over. After a matta (false start) by Hokutofuji, the preceedings lasted less than 2 seconds, and Hakuho, who made things look ridiculously easy, had his 10th win.
+++
Finishing moves:
7. Oshidashi--Frontal Push Out
6. Yorikiri--Frontal Force Out (with or without a mawashi [belt] grip
2. Hatakikomi--Slap Down
1. Hikkake--Arm Grabbing Force Out
1. Okuridashi--Rear Push Out
1. Tsukidashi--Frontal Thrust Out
1. Tsukiotoshi--Thrust Down
1. Okurinage--Rear Throw Down
Force/Push Out/Downs 15; Thrusts or Slaps: 4; Throws 1
+++
Heavier v Lighter 9-11
<300 pounds: 2-1
>399 pounds: 2-4
+++
Total time of all matches: 117.3 seconds (1 minute 53.3 seconds)
Average Time Per Match: 5.9 seconds
Shortest match: 1.2 seconds (#11: Tochinosin (M9) v Kagayaki (M6)
Longest match: 18.2 seconds (#3: Daiamami (M7) v Ikioi (M12)
=============================
=============================
=============================
Final Cumulative Statistics for the 2020 Haryo (Spring) Tournament, March 8-22, 2020.
Osaka Prefectural Gymnasium (1) (2)
Individual Rishiki (Wrestlers) Match Records, match by match condensed linescores, and, for those with over 10 or more wins, finishing moves (winning and losing), and complete schedules).
KACHI-KOSHI (winning records)
YOKOZUNA: 2 of 2 (Hakuho 13W--44th Yusho (Champion), Kakuro 12w--7th Jen Yusho--2nd Place)
Ozeki: 0 of 1
Sekiwaki: 2 of 2 (Asanoyama 11W--promoted to Ozeki); Shodai 8w)
Komusubi: 0 of 2
Maegashira:
M9 (Takanasho--12 wins; Jen-Yusho--2nd Place; awarded Kanto-sho--Fighting Spirit Prize--his 1st)
M13 (Aioyama--11 wins; awarded Gino-sho--Technique Prize--his 1st)
M3 (Mitakeumi--10 wins)
9 wins--M5: Onosho (awarded Shukun sho--Outstanding Performance Prize--his first, for an exellent record that included a Kinboshi--Gold Star Win--his 2nd) over a Yokozuna (see below)
M7 (Takarafuji, M8 (Kiribayama), M11 (Terutsuyoshi); M12 (Ishiura); M16 (Shimmanoumi); M18 (Kotonowaka--in his Makuuchi (Top Tournament) debut
8 wins--M1 (Daieisho); M2 (Okinoumi); M3 (Yutakayama); M6 (Kagayaki); M11 (Chiyotairu); M12 (Ikioi); M14 (Kaisei)
+++
Individual Records
Key: Final rank in the Tournament; Rishiki; Height; Weight; Age; Win-Loss Record; Condensed linescore; longest winning and losing streak
Note: Finishing moves and schedules are given for those who finished 10-5 of better.
13 WINS
1. Hakuho (Y) (Champion); 6'4", 348, 35; (13-2) 44th Yusho (Championship)
9-0; 9-1 (Onosho-M5-Kinboshi--Gold Star Win); 10-1; 10-2; 13-2
W=9, L=1
Finishing moves:
Wins:
4: Oshidashi--Frontal Push Out
3. Yorkikiri--Frontal Force Out (mawashi [belt] grip)
2. Uwatenage--Overarm Throw
1. Sukuinage--Beltless Arm Throw
1. Shitatenage--Underarm Throw
1. Tottari--Arm Bar Throw
1, Hatakikomi--Slap Down
(7 Force/Push Outs; 5 Throws, 1 Slap)
Losses:
1.Yorikiri, 1. Oshidashi
(2 Force/Push Outs)
Schedule:
1. K1(En); 2. M1(Dai); 3: M1(Takay); 4; M2(Oki) 5; M2(Tor); 6; M3(Yut); 7; M3(Mit); 8 M4(Abi); 9: M5(Ryu); 10 M5(Ono); 11 K1 (Hok); 12; S1(Sho); 13 S1(Asa); 14 M13(Aoi); 15 Y1-O(Kak)
12 Wins
2. Kakuryu (Y1-O); 6'1", 344, 34; (12-3)
1-0; 1-1; 4-1; 4-2 (Tokushoryu-M2--Kinboshi--Gold Star Win); 12-2; 12-3
W=8, L=1
Finishing moves:
Wins
4. Oshidashi--Frontal Push Out
3. Yorikiri--Frontal Force Out (miwashi [belt] grip)
1. Okuridashi--Rear Push Out
1. Oshitaoshi--Frontal Push down
1. Uwatenage--Overarm Throw
1. Shitatenage--Underarm Throw
1. Tsukiotoshi--Thrust Down
(9 Force/Push Outs/Downs; 2 Throws; 1 Thrust)
Losses: 2 Yorikiris; 1 Okuritaoshi--Rear Push Down
(3 Force/Push Outs/Down)
Schedule:
1. M1(Dai); 2. K1(Hok); 3. M2(Oki); 4 M1(Takay); 5. M3 (Yut); 6. M2(Tok); 7. M4(Enh); 8. M3(Mit); 9 M4(Abi); 10, M5(Ryu); 11. S1(Sho); 12. K1(En); 13. O(Takak); 14. S1(Asa); 15; Y(Hak)
3. Takanasho (M9); 6'0",359, 25; (12-3)
4-0; 4-1; 8-1; 8-2; 9-2; 9-3; 12-3
W=4, L=1; Won Kanto-sho--Fighting Spirit Prize, his 1st.
Finishing moves:
Wins:
5. Oshidashi--Frontal Push Out
4. Yorikiri--Frontal Force Out (miwashi [belt] grip)
1. Okuridashi--Rear Push Out
1. Tsukiotoshi--Thrust Down
1. Hatakikomi--Slap Down
(10 Force/Push Outs 1 Thrust; 1 Slap)
Losses: 1 Oshitaoshi--Frontal Push down 1 Hatakikomi; 1 Tsukiotoshi
(1 Push Down, 1 Slap, 1 Thrust)
Schedule:
1. M8(Kri); 2. M8(Sho); 3. M10(Sad); 4. M9(Tochino); 5. M11(Chiy); 6. M10(Tochio); 7. M6(Kag); 8. M6(Myo); 9. M7(Tam); 10. M7 (Tak); 11. M12(Ish); 12. S1(Asa); 13. M13(Aoi); 14. M3(Mit); 15. S1(Sho)
11 Wins
4. Asanoyama (S1); 6'2", 390, 26; (11-4)
Promoted to Ozeki after the Tournament
5-0; 5-1; 6-1; 6-2; 10-2; 10-4; 11-4 * Match 5=forfeit;
W=5; L=2
Finishing moves:
Wins
3. Yorikiri--Frontal Force Out (mawashi [belt] grip)
2. Oshidashi--Frontal Push Out
2. Oshitaoshi--Frontal Push Down
1. Sukuinage--Beltless Arm Throw
1. Uwatedashinage--Pulling Overarm Throw
1. Kotenage--Armlock Throw
1. Fusen (forfeit)
(7 Force/Push Outs/Downs; 3 Throws)
Losses:
1 Yorikiri; 1 Oshidashi; 1 Sukuinage; 1 Shitatenagi--underarm throw.
(2 Force/Push Outs; 2 Throws)
Schedule:
1. M2(Oki); 2 M2(Tok); 3. M1(Dai); 4. K1(Hok); 5. M1(Takay*) 6. M3(Mit); 7. K1(En); 8. M3(Yut); 9. S1(Sho); 10. M4(Enh); 11. M5(Ryu); 12; M9(Takan); 13. Y(Hak); 14. Y1-O(Kak); 15 O(Takak)
*=forfeit
5. Aioyama (M13): 6'3", 425, 33; (11-4)
6-0; 6-1; 11-1; 11-4
W=6, L=3; Awarded Gino-sho Prize--Outstanding Technique, his first.
Finishing moves:
Wins
4. Oshidashi--Frontal Push Out
3. Hatakikomi--Slap Down
2. Tsukidashi--Frontal Thrust out
1. Kotenage--Armlock Throw
1. Fusen (forfeit)
(4 Push Outs; 3 Slaps; 2 Thrusts; 1 Throw)
Losses: 1 Yorikiri--Frontal Force Out (mawashi [belt] grip)
1 Shitatenage--Underarm Throw; 1 Oshidashi; 1 Uwatenage--Overarm Throw
(2 Force/Push Outs; 2 Throws)
Schedule: 1. M14(Kai); 2. M12(Iki); 3. M13(Kot); 4. M14(Nis); 5. M15(Tsu*); 6. M17(Mei); 7. M11(Ter); 8. M17(Dai); 9. M11(Chiy); 10. M16(Shi); 11. M18(Kot); 12. M3(Mit); 13. M9(Takan); 14. Y(Hak); 15 M12(Ish)
*=forfeit
10 Wins
6. Mitakeumi (M3); 5'11",386, 27; (10-5)
6-0; 6-2; 9-2; 9-3; 10-3; 10-5
W=6; L=2
Finishing moves:
4. Yorikiri--Frontal Force Out (mawashi [belt] grip)
4. Oshidashi--Frontal Push Out
1. Oshitaoshi--Frontal Push down
1. Okuridashi--Rear Push Out
(10 Force/Push Outs/Downs)
Losses: 5 Oshidashi
(5 Push Downs)
Schedule:
1. M4(Enh); 2. M4(Abi); 3. S1(Sho); 4. M3(Yut) 5. O(Takak); 6; S1(Asa); 7. Y(Hak); 8. Y1-O (Kak); 9. K1(Hok); 10; K1(En); 11. M1 (Dai); 12. M13(Aoi); 13. M7 (Takar); 14. M9(Takan); 15. M5(Ono)
9 Wins
7. Onosho (M5); 5'10",346, 23; (9-6)
2-0; 2-1; 4-1; 4-2; 5-2; 5-4; 6-4 (Kinbushi--Gold Star Win over Yokozuna Hakuho); 6-5; 8-5; 8-6; 9-6;
W=2, L=2; Awarded Shukun-sho--Outstanding Performance Prize, his 1st. (see Hakuho above); Kinboshi--his 1st.
8. Takarafuji (M7): 6'1", 370, 33; (9-6)
0-1; 1-1; 1-2; 4-2; 4-3; 7-3; 7-4; 8-4; 8-6; 9-6
W=3, L=2
9. Kiribayama (M8); 6'0",304,23; (9-6)
0-1; 1-1; 1-2; 4-2; 4-6; 9-6;
W=5, L=4
10. Terutsuyoshi (M11); 5'7", 265, 25; (9-6)
0-1; 1-1; 1-2; 3-2; 3-3; 4-3; 4-5; 7-5; 7-6; 9-6
W=2, L=2
11. Ishiura (M12); 5'9", 243, 30; (9-6)
4-0; 4-1; 5-1; 5-2; 7-2; 7-4; 8-4; 8-6; 9-6
W=4, L=2
12. Shimanoumi (M16); 5'10',364; 30; (9-6)
2-0; 2-1; 3-1; 3-4; 5-4; 5-5; 6-5; 6-6; 9-6
W=3, L=3
13. Kotonowaka (M18); 6'2", 381, 22 (9-6)
1-0; 1-1; 4-1; 4-2; 7-2; 7-6; 9-6
W=3; L=4
1st Maakuchi (Top Tier) Tournament
8 Wins
14. Shodai (S1); 6'0", 377, 28; (8-7)
2-0; 2-1; 3-1; 3-4; 4-4; 4-5; 5-5; 5-6; 8-6; 8-7
W=3, L=3
15. Daieisho (M1); 6'0", 364, 26; (8-7)
0-3; 7-3; 7-6; 8-6; 8-7
W=7, L=3
16. Okinoumi (M2); 6'3", 368, 34; (8-7)
0-1; 1-1; 1-4; 4-4; 4-5; 6-5; 6-6; 7-6; 7-7; 8-7
W=3, L=3
17. Yutakayama (M3); 6'0", 395, 26; (8-7)
1-0; 1-1; 2-1; 2-5; 7-5; 7-7; 8-7
W=5; L=3
18. Kagakayake (M6); 6'4", 366, 25; (8-7)
1-0; 1-1; 3-1; 3-2; 4-2; 4-3; 6-3; 6-5; 7-5; 7-7; 8-7
W=2, L=2
19. Chiyotairu (M11); 5'11",423, 31; (8-7)
3-0; 3-1; 6-1; 6-3; 7-3; 7-6; 8-6; 8-7
W=3; L=3
20. Ikioi (M12); 6'4",390, 33; (8-7)
1-0; 1-1; 3-1; 3-2; 4-2; 4-3; 5-3; 5-5; 8-5; 8-7
W=3, L=3
21. Kaisei (M14); 6'4", 441, 32; (8-7)
0-3; 3-3; 3-4; 8-4; 8-7
W=4, L=3
MAKE-KOSHI
Ozeki 1 (Takakeisho--7 wins)
Komusubi 2 (Endo--7 wins); (Hokutofuji--4 wins)
Maegashira
7 wins: M4 (Abi); M13 (Kotoshugiku); M15 (Chiyomaru); M17 (Meisei)
6 wins: M4 (Enho); M5 (Ryuden); M7 (Tamawashi); M9 (Tochinosin); M10 (Sadanoumi); M14 (Nishikigi)
5 wins M16 (Azumaryu); M17 (Daiamami);
4 wins: M2 (Tokoshoryu); M6 (Myogiru); M8 (Shohozan)
3 wins: M10 (Tochiozan)
1 win: M15 (Tsurugisho)***
0 wins:M1 (Takayasu)***
***withdrew from the Tournament because of injury
7 wins
22. Takakeisho (O); 5'9", 373, 28 (7-8)
1-0; 1-1; 2-1; 2-3; 5-3; 5-6; 6-6; 6-7; 7-7; 7-8
W=3, L=3
Kadoban (must win at least 8 matches in his next tournament or will be demoted to Sekiwake)
23. Endo (K1); 6'0", 337, 29; (7-8)
0-1; 1-1; 1-2; 4-2; 4-4; 5-4; 5-5; 6-5; 6-6; 7-6; 7-8
W=3, L=2
Probable demotion to M
24. Abi (M4); 6'1", 342, 25; (7-8)
(7-8); 0-2; 3-2; 3-3; 4-3; 4-6; 5-6; 5-8; 7-8
W=3, L=3
25. Kotoshogiku; (M13); 5'11",390, 36 (7-8)
0-1; 1-1; 1-3; 4-3; 4-4; 5-4; 5-5; 6-5; 6-6; 7-6; 7-8
W=3, L=2
26. Chiyomaru; (M15); 5'11",428, 28; (7-6-2)
3-0; 3-2; 5-2; 5-3*; ** 5-4; 7-4; 7-6
*lost by forfeit; **=missed two matches due to high temperature
27. Meisei (M17); 5'10",331, 24; (7-8)
(7-8); 0-1; 1-1; 1-3; 2-3; 2-5; 3-5*; 3-6; 5-6; 5-7; 7-7; 7-8
W=2, L=2 *=forfeit win
6 Wins
28. Enho (M4); 5'6",218, 25; (6-9)
0-1; 1-1; 1-3; 2-3; 2-5; 3-5; 3-7; 4-7; 4-8; 5-8; 5-9; 6-9
W=1, L=2
29. Ryuden (M5); 6'3", 340, 29; (6-9)
1-0; 1-1; 2-1; 2-3; 4-3; 4-8; 5-8; 5-9; 6-9
W=2, L=5
30. Tamawashi (M7); 6'2", 379, 35; (6-9)
1-0; 1-5; 2-5; 2-7; 3-7; 3-9; 6-9
W=3, L=5
31. Tochinosin (M9); 6'3", 390, 32; (6-9)
0-2; 1-2; 1-5; 3-5; 3-6; 5-6; 5-8; 6-8; 6-9
W=2, L=3
32.Sadanoumi (M10); 6'0",322, 32; (6-9)
1-0; 1-3; 2-3; 2-4; 3-4; 3-8; 6-8; 6-9
W=3; L=4
33. Nishikigi (M14); 6'1", 397, 29; (6-9)
0-5; 1-5; 1-7; 3-7; 3-8; 5-8; 5-9; 6-9; W=2, L=5
5 Wins
34. Azumaryu (M16); 6'3", 362, 32; (5-10)
(5-10); 0-1; 3-1; 3-3; 4-3; 4-5; 5-5; 5-10; W=3, L=5
Probable Demotion to Juryo (2nd Tier)
35. Daiamami (M17); 6'0", 412, 27 (5-10)
0-2; 1-2; 1-3; 2-3; 2-4; 3-4; 3-5; 4-5; 4-7; 5-7; 5-10; W=1, L=3
Probable demotion to Juryo (2nd Tier)
4 Wins
36. Hokutofuji (K1); 6'0", 357, 27 (4-11)
0-1; 2-1; 2-9; 3-9; 3-10; 4-10; W=2,L=8
Probable demotion to M
37. Tokoshoryu (M2) 5'11",414, 33; (4-11)
0-5; 1-5; (Kinboshi (Gold Star Win over Yokozuna Kukuryu); 1-7; 2-7; 2-9; 3-9; 3-10; 4-10; 4-11
W=1, L=5
Kinboshi--his 1st. Was January 2020 Tournament Champion (14-1); promoted from M17 to M2.
38. Myogiryu (M6): 6'2", 346, 33; (4-11)
0-4; 1-4; 1-7; 3-7; 3-10; 4-10; 4-11
W=2, L=4
39. Shohozan (M8); 5'9", 306, 36; (4-11)
0-2; 1-2; 1-6; 2-6; 2-10; 3-10; 3-11; 4-11
W=1, L=4
3 Wins
40. Tochiozan (M10); 6'2", 344, 33 (3-12)
0-10; 1-10; 1-12; 3-12
W=2 L=10
1 Win
Tsurugisho (M15) 6'0", 386, 27 (1-4-10)
(1-4-10); 1-0; 1-4; 1-4-10
W=1, L=4
Withdrew from tournament due to injury
0 Wins
Takayasu (M1) 6'2", 388, 30; (0-5-10)
0-5; 0-5-10
W=0, L=5
Withdrew from tournament due to injury
No comments:
Post a Comment