Breaking sumo news-according to the Japanese version of Yahoo Sports, veteran rikishi Okinoumi, who withdrew from the January Tournament today on Day 6, will retire effective immediately. According to a translation of the article, the lingering effects of a leg injury suffered during the November 2022 Tournament is the reason. Okinoumi, ranked at Maegashira 12, was 0-5 coming into today.
Okinoumi (real name Ayumi Fukuoka), 37, debuted in March 2005 and reached a highest rank of Sekiwake during his career. He won one Makushita championship, 5 Special Prizes and 4 Kinboshi (Gold Star Victories, awarded when a Maegashira defeats a Yokozuna). His career record with today’s withdrawal leaves him with a 674-675-33 (win-loss-absent) record.
This will mark the second straight tournament with a retirement during the tournament, following Chiyotairyu in November 2022.
More as it becomes available. Today’s Day 6 results will be posted later tonight.
