Tag: grand sumo

With the November Grand Sumo Tournament now in the books, here are the final standings & other notes/early news:
Just before this was posted it became official…a new Ozeki! Aonishiki has been promoted to the second highest rank after winning his first Emperor’s Cup Sunday.

First up, here is the final Hoshitori (records listed based on the Banzuke) for the top 2 tiers, records are in win-loss-absent format):
Makuuchi (top tier):
Yokozuna-Onosato (11-4*), Hoshoryu (12-3, lost in playoff)
Ozeki-Kotozakura (8-7)
Sekiwake-Aonishiki (12-3, Tournament Champion), Oho (7-8)
Komusubi-Takanosho (5-10), Takayasu (8-7)
Maegashira 1-Hakuoho (6-9), Wakatakakage (7-8)
Maegashira 2-Kirishima (11-4), Wakamotoharu (8-7)
Maegashira 3-Hiradoumi (4-11), Ura (8-7)
Maegashira 4-Tamawashi (7-8), Oshoma (4-11)
Maegashira 5-Yoshinofuji (9-6), Shodai (4-11)
Maegashira 6-Atamifuji (8-7), Onokatsu (7-8)
Maegashira 7-Churanoumi (8-7), Abi (5-10)
Maegashira 8-Ichiyamamoto (11-4), Kinbozan (7-8)
Maegashira 9-Midorifuji (6-9), Tobizaru (6-9)
Maegashira 10-Daieisho (10-5), Kotoshoho (7-8)
Maegashira 11-Shishi (6-9), Roga (8-7)
Maegashira 12-Fujinokawa (9-6), Tomokaze (7-8)
Maegashira 13-Gonoyama (9-6), Mitakeumi (7-8)
Maegashira 14-Ryuden (7-8), Tokihayate (9-6)
Maegashira 15-Nishikifuji (9-6), Shonannoumi (3-12)
Maegashira 16-Oshoumi (7-8), Sadanoumi (4-11)
Maegashira 17-Chiyoshoma (10-5), Asakoryu (8-7)
Maegashira 18-Meisei (1-5-9)
*-Onosato withdrew on the final day and as a result that is treated as a loss even though he was absent.
Notes: There’s no doubt Takayasu will stay Sanyaku thanks to clinching promotion on the final day, the only question will be Sekiwake or Komusubi. Kirishima could be back at Sekiwake after 11 wins and a Special Prize but he definitely will be Sanyaku, while Ichiyamamoto could sneak in to Komusubi following a 11-win effort and Special Prize that saw him go perfect the second half, finishing with 8 straight wins. Daieisho will also be the other big mover up after 10 wins with a 5-1 finish. I think Wakamotoharu & Ura will be the M1s while Yoshinofuji should be M2. Meisei will be demoted to Juryo but the one win he got may be enough to keep him from falling to Makushita. Sadanoumi & Shonannoumi should be demoted as well while I think Oshoumi did enough to save his spot as he went from demotion on Day 9 to then finishing with 6 straight wins once he got his footing.
The other big loser in the championship and Aonishiki promotion? Shishi. Also from Ukraine, he broke into sumo well before Aonishiki although without nearly the hype and attention/media coverage Aonishiki has received (although he often got hearty applause/support because of where he is from). Despite his size and ability he hasn’t achieved anywhere near his countrymate and has possibly peaked, seemingly destined to be a mid-carder.

Finally, also presented post-tournament was the special year-end award for the most total wins this year, excluding the London event. That went to Onosato who had 71 wins this year (71-19 record). He won at least 10 matches in every tournament. Due to Onosato being absent his stablemaster Nishonoseki accepted it on his behalf. Onosato is expected to be out 1 month due to a shoulder injury. That means he’s off the December tour but should be back for January if all goes well.

Juryo:
Juryo 1-Hitoshi (2-13), Fujiseiun (8-7)
Juryo 2-Kotoeihi (9-6), Asahakuryu (10-5)
Juryo 3-Mita (0-3-12), Daiseizan (9-6)
Juryo 4-Kagayaki (9-6), Asanoyama (12-3)
Juryo 5-Hatsuyama (11-4), Tochitaikai (6-9)
Juryo 6-Kotokuzan (7-8), Nishikigi (4-11)
Juryo 7-Takerufuji (8-7), Shirokuma (9-6)
Juryo 8-Kayo (6-9), Kazekeno (6-9)
Juryo 9-Hidenoumi (5-10), Nishinoryu (8-7)
Juryo 10-Hakuyozan (4-11), Tohakuryu (7-8)
Juryo 11-Tamashoho (10-5), Tsurugisho (7-8)
Juryo 12-Kitanowaka (8-7), Asasuiryu (9-6)
Juryo 13-Himukamaru (5-10), Fujiryoga (13-2, Tournament Champion)
Juryo 14-Shiden (5-7-3), Wakanosho (8-7)
Notes: The first big question is whether or not Fujiryoga’s impressive debut effort will be enough to get him to the top tier in January. It may depend on space-Fujiseiun & Asahakuryu are going up to the top tier for the first time, Asanoyama should be back up too, Hatsuyama & Daiseizan are toss-ups but if it’s between them I’d go with Hatsuyama as he went 11-4 at J5 while Daiseizan was 9-6 at J3. I think neither will because I only expect 3 from the top tier to be demoted. That would probably make Fujiryoga a no and slot him in at J1 or J2. Mita, who had to withdraw due to injury, reportedly is out at least 3 months which would keep him out of January so, even if he’s not yet demoted to Makushita, he will be for March. Himukamaru should be demoted to Makushita along with Shiden, possibly Hakuyozan and we’ll see about Mita.

Lower tier notes: Enho went 5-2 and that will be a promotion, probably to the top 10 Makushita ranks and making promotion in March to Juryo possible. I think he could go as high as Ms5. Kyokukaiyu will be promoted back to Juryo after going 5-2 at Ms1, Dewarnoryu has a chance at 5-2 from Ms3 although a last day loss hurt his hopes (but he also had an unusually long 4 days off before that final day match), and also with a chance is Kazuma, who won the championship at Ms15. Tochimusashi could sneak into an Ms1 spot after a 6-1 at Ms9.

Just before posting this, the Shin-Juryo and Sai-Juryo rikishi for January were announced. Dewanoryu & Kazuma are Shin-Juryo, reaching the second tier for the first time in their careers, while Kyokokaiyu is Sai-Juryo, returning after a prior demotion.

Beyond Endo, there were 4 retirements announced, all in the lower tiers. (Correction-the original post stated 5 retirements but per the Japan Sumo Association app there were just 4.

UPDATE: Not on the retirement list to the surprise of some was Shimanoumi. Reliable English-language sumo YouTuber Chris Sumo hints at a possible retirement after January because at that point Shimanoumi can reportedly cash in his elder stock for Izutsu, which was formerly held by now-retired Akiseyama who cashed in when he retired. But this will be his first promotion in 4 tournaments so perhaps there’s that motivation although he will still be in Makushita in January. That being said, since winning his second caraer Special Prize in November 2020 this will be only his 8th promotion since along with 22 demotions.

UPDATE 2: On 11/27, it was announced that Tokiwayama Beya will be transferred to the current Minatogawa-the former Takakeisho-and become Minatogawa Beya on January 26, which is right after the January Tournament ends. The current stablemaster Tokiwayama will turn 65-the mandatory retirement age in sumo-on March 1, so the succession process is beginning early to avoid disruptions or potential closure (like what happened a year or so ago when Michinoku Beya had to close due to no successor in place, that forced Kirishima to move to Otowayama Beya, just opened by the former Yokozuna Kakuryu) and have it all done prior to the March Tournament. Minatogawa turns 30 in August so he potentially will be there for 35 years before he would have to retire. It was announced at least one current Tokiwayama wrestler would stay put but their referee there (a Juryo referee) would be transferred to Tamanoi Beya, the Tokoyama (lead hairdresser) would go to Kise Beya and a yobidashi (Sandanme level) would go to Shikoroyama Beya. Tokiwayama Beya currently has 10 wrestlers, most notably top tier wrestler Takanosho and Juryo man Wakanosho, it’s not known if any will be moved elsewhere as a result. In their own announcement on social media, Shikoroyama Beya announced Tokiwayama will continue to watch over their stable (many of the stables have a family-like structure and partnership/affiliation and hold group practices together between tournaments). I’m thinking this may also open up the Tokiwayama elder stock for Takanosho when he retires (he just turned 31 during the November tournament will reach 16 years active in March).

Below will be the LIVE results from today’s Day 15-the Final Day-of the November 2025 Grand Sumo Tournament in Fukuoka once the matches begin. This will be updated closer to start time with today’s matches (they have already been announced).
Key: M-Maegashira, K-Komusubi, S-Sekiwake, O-Ozeki, Y-Yokozuna, J-Juryo, Ms-Makushita, Sd-Sandanme, Jd-Jonidan, Jk-Jonokuchi

Updates below will begin at or around 8 PM PT/11 PM ET. For the top tier, you will be able to watch LIVE FOR FREE on NHK World Japan beginning at 11:30 PM PT/2:30 AM ET. NHK World Japan is available worldwide online and on mobile phones, tablets and smart TVs. The broadcast will be joining in progress and will not include the first few matches. I plan to watch on NHK World Premium, which broadcasts all top tier matches in Japanese with English also available. (NHK World Japan’s live broadcast is the English Premium version with all onscreen text in English instead of Japanese)
For Juryo, I hope to watch on YouTube via a channel that normally shows the Japan-only ABEMA livestreams with commentary, if not I will follow live results via the Japan Sumo Association official mobile app which provides real-time results.

In news before the matches begin, it was announced that the new Oyakata Kitajin-the former Endo who retired after September-will have his retirement & haircutting ceremony on January 30, 2027.

7:45 PM PT UPDATE: BREAKING NEWS-Onosato has WITHDRAWN. Possible shoulder injury according to Hochi Sports. That means if Aonishiki loses today, Hoshoryu is the champion because he gets a free victory. If Aonishiki wins, there will be a playoff. Aonishiki faces Kotozakura (8-6). This will be the first time in his career Onosato has missed a day.

8:20 PM PT UPDATE: Special Prizes winners announced, see below.

9:15 PM PT UPDATE: Live updates below begin now. The Onosato withdrawal above has now been announced.

Jonidan:
Playoff: Ryuho (Jd45) beat Kakueizan (Jd12). RYUHO JONIDAN YUSHO!!! First career championship (both are Otowoyama Beya stablemates)
Makushita:
Enho has won his final match of the tournament and will finish 5-2, being promoted from Ms15. Not enough to get back to Juryo but I think he’ll go up to maybe Ms5 for January.

Juryo:
Seihakuho (Ms5) beat Wakanosho (J14)
Himukamaru (J13) beat Daiamami (Ms4)
Asasuiryu (J12) beat Kazekeno (J8)
Tohakuryu (J10) beat Kayo (J8)
Tamashoho (J11) beat Nishikigi (J6)
Kotokuzan (J6) beat Hakuyozan (J10)
Tsurugisho (J11) beat Tochitaikai (J5)
Fujiryoga JJ13) beat Haatsuyama (J5). FUJIRYOGA JURYO YUSHO!!! First career championship.
Asanoyama (J4) beat Kitanowaka (J12)
Kagayaki (J4) beat Nishinoryu (J9)
Shirokuma (J7) beat Daiseizan (J3)
Takerufuji (J7) beat Asahakuryu (J2)
Hidenoumi (J9) beat Hitoshi (J1)
CHAMPION: Fujiryoga (13-2)

Makuuchi (top tier) (in progress):
Asakoryu (M17) beat Kotoeiho (J2)
Oshoumni (M16) beat Fujiseiun (J1)
Shishi (M11) beat Meisei (M18)
Chiyoshoma (M17) beat Kotoshoho (M10)
Daieisho (M10) beat Tokihayate (M14)
Nishikifuji (M15) beat Tobizaru (M9)
(NHK World Premium broadcast begins here at 11:05 PM PT/2:05 AM ET. Delayed about 10 minutes due to Rugby)
Tomokaze (M12) beat Midorifuji (M9)
Kinbozan (M8) beat Sadanoumi (M16)
Gonoyama (M13) beat Abi (M7)
Churanoumi (M7) beat Ryuden (M14)
Onokatsu (M6) beat Shonannoumi (M15)
Atamifuji (M6) beat Mitakeumi (M13)
The NHK World Japan live broadcast begins here.
Tamawashi (M4) beat Fujinokawa (M12)*
Oshoma (M4) beat Hiradoumi (M3)
Ichiyamamoto (M8) beat Wakamotoharu (M2)
Kirishima (M2) beat Ura (M3)
Wakatakakage (M1) beat Roga (M11)
Hakuoko (M1) beat Shodai (M5)
Takayasu (K) beat Yoshinofuji (M5)
Oho (S) beat Takanosho (K)
aonishiki (S) beat Kotozakura (O). PLAYOFF!!!
Hoshoryu (Y) beat Onosato (Y) by default/withdrawal
Playoff: Aonishiki beat Hoshoryu. AONISHIKI YUSHO!!! The first career Emperor’s Cup for Aonishiki!
CHAMPION: Aonishiki (12-3). He also becomes the 4th youngest top tier champion ever (21 years, 8 months)
WITHDRAWAL: Onosato (Y). Left shoulder injury suffered yesterday (possibly a dislocated AC joint). Hoshoryu got the fusen as a result.
*-With this win, Tamawashi is now #10 all-time on the top tier wins list at 702, breaking a tie with Takanohana.

TOURNAMENT CHAMPIONS:
Makuuchi-Aonishiki (S)
Juryo-Fujiryoga (J13)
Makushita-Kazuma (Ms15)
Sandanme-Kaki (Sd31)
Jonidan-Ryuho (Jd45)
Jonokuchi-Goseiryu (Jk21)

SPECIAL PRIZES:
Outstanding Performance (winning record with most wins vs. Yokozuna & Ozeki): Aonishiki
Fighting Spirit (best display of fighting spirit): Kirishima, Ichiyamamoto
Technique (winning record with best display of technique): Aonishiki, Yoshinofuji. This will be the 3rd straight time Aonishiki has won this and 5th straight with at least one Special Prize. This will be the second time Yoshinofuji has won this

The next tournament is 1/11-1/25 at Ryogoku Kokugikan in Tokyo. Tickets go on sale 12/6. The Banzuke will be announced on 12/22. The first batch of news and ranking updates should come Tuesday or Wednesday…and could we see a new Ozeki? We will soon find out! (During the Champions interview they all but confirmed it will happen. An announcement would come Tuesday night US time if it does)

UPDATE; Onosato injury update via Nikkan Sports-dislocated left shoulder chain joint. Out 1 month. That means if there aren’t any unexpected complications he should be ready for January.

Here are the quick results from today’s Day 14-the penultimate day-of the November 2025 Grand Sumo Tournament in Fukuoka:
Key: M-Maegashira, K-Komusubi, S-Sekiwake, O-Ozeki, Y-Yokozuna, J-Juryo

Makuuchi (top tier):
Fujinokawa (M12) beat Asakoryu (M17)
Tomokaze (M12) beat Meisei (M18)
Gonoyama (M13) beat Shishi (M11)
Chiyoshoma (M17) beat Roga (M11)
Daieisho (M10) beat Nishikifuji (M15)
Mitakeumi (M13) beat Kotoshoho (M10)
Kinbozan (M6) beat Shonannoumi (M15)
Ryuden (M14) beat Abi (M7)
Onokatsu (M6) beat Sadanoumi (M16)
Ichiyamamoto (M8) beat Yoshinofuji (M5)
Oshoumi (M16) beat Hiradoumi (M3)
Ura (M3) beat Tobizaru (M9)
Kirishima (M2) beat Tokihayate (M14)
Wakamotoharu (M2) beat Midorifuji (M9)
Hakuoho (M1) beat Tamawashi (M4)
Churanoumi (M7) beat Wakatakakage (M1)
Takanosho (K) beat Oshoma (M4)
Takayasu (K) beat Atamifuji (M6)
Oho (S) beat Shodai (M5)
Kotozakura (O) beat Onosato (Y)
Aonishiki (S) beat Hoshoryu (Y)
Leader: Onosato, Hoshoryu, Aonishiki (11-3)
Of note: The championship scenarios tomorrow are simple-if Aonishiki beats Kotozakura, there will be a playoff against the Onosato-Hoshoryu winner. If Aonishiki loses, the Yokozuna Showdown tomorrow is for the championship. Kotozakura protected his Ozeki rank again with an 8th win today but continues a disappointing year where he has mainly started good but really slumped in the second week, but this time there may have been some injury concerns coming in and even brief rumblings he might sit out.
Ozeki Watch-Aonishiki has his 11 wins so that streak remains intact. If he wins the championship tomorrow, there is a chance of promotion. If he doesn’t, he’s looking at needing 10 or 11 wins in January. 10 if he wins tomorrow, 11 if he loses.

Juryo:
Nishinoryu (J9) beat Tsurugisho (J11)
Takerufuji (J7) beat Asasuiryu (J12)
Himukamaru (J13) beat Kotokuzan (J6)
Tohakuryu (J10) beat Nishikigi (J6)
Harsuyama (J5) beat Hakuyozan (J10)
Tochitaikai (J5) beat Hidenoumi (J9)
Kitanowaka (J12) beat Kagayaki (J4)
Asanoyama (J4) beat Fujiryoga (J13)
Tamashoho (J11) beat Daiseizen (J3)
Kotoeiho (J2) beat Wakanosho (J14)
Asahakuryu (J2) beat Shirokuma (J7)
Kayo (J8) beat Hitoshi (J1)
Fujiseiun (J1) beat Kazekeno (J8)
Leader: Fujiryoga (12-2)
Of note: Despite the loss today, Fujiryoga still controls his destiny. If he wins tomorrow or Asanoyama loses, he is the champion. If Fujiryoga loses and Asanoyama wins, there will be a playoff rematch. The only thing Fujiryoga probably lost today was any real chance at promotion to the top tier in January. 13-2 and a title probably means J1. 12-3 should mean J2 or J3 with a championship, maybe J4 without. With this win, I feel confident saying Asanoyama will be promoted back to the top tier in January between 11-3 so far at J4 and pending demotions ahead of him (and those not being promoted-Hitoshi will be major demoted, stablemate Asahakuryu will be promoted, Daiseizan needs to win tomorrow otherwise it’s a toss-up but with 9 wins at J3 I lean towards no, Kotoeiho will go back up with a win tomorrow but toss-up if he loses, Fujiseiun clinched promotion today).

Lower tier notes: No match for Enho today as expected, His final match will be tomorrow, he has already clinched promotion at 4-2 and will stay in Makushita in January, but 5-2 can mean a bigger move up and a better chance at Juryo promotion in March.

Reminder: NHK World Japan will have 90 minutes of LIVE top tier coverage of the Final Day FOR FREE, including the championship matches, playoff if necessary, awards ceremony and champion’s interview, beginning TONIGHT at 11:30 PM PT/2:30 AM ET. All top tier matches will be streamed LIVE on NHK World Premium beginning at 11 PM PT/2 AM ET (it is available in the US on participating cable/satellite providers or by subscribing to Jme TV, which currently has a discount promotion on paid subscriptions or you may be able to get a 5 day free trial without the promos). I will be trying to do LIVE results of the top 2 tiers, including Juryo, beginning at 8 PM PT/11 PM ET. Depending on the order of matches, this may include the Jonidan playoff.

Here are the quick results from today’s Day 13-Championship Day-of the November 2025 Grand Sumo Tournament in Fukuoka:
Key: M-Maegashira, K-Komusubi, S-Sekiwake, O-Ozeki, Y-Yokozuna, J-Juryo, Ms-Makushita, Sd-Sandanme, Jd-Jonidan, Jk-Jonokuchi

Makuuchi (top tier):
Gonoyama (M13) beat Meisei (M18)
Oshoumi (M16) beat Tomokaze (M12)
Sadanoumi (M16) beat Shishi (M11)
Asakoryu (M17) beat Kotoshoho (M10)
Daieisho (M10) beat Chiyoshima (M17)
Tobizaru (M9) beat Shonannoumi (M15)
Mitakeumi (M13) beat Midorifuji (M9)
Ryuden (M14) beat Kinbozan (M8)
Ichiyamamoto (M8) beat Roga (M11)
Fujinokawa (M12) beat Abi (M7)
Yoshinofuji (M5) beat Tokihayate (M14)
Hiradoumi (M3) beat Churanoumi (M7)
Wakamotoharu (M2) beat Onokatsu (M6)
Kirishima (M2) beat Atamifuji (M6)
Tamawashi (M4) beat Wakatakakage (M1)
Ura (M3) beat Hakuoho (M1)
Takayasu (K) beat Nishikifuji (M15)
Takanosho (K) beat Shodai (M5)
Oho (S) beat Oshoma (M4)
Hoshoryu (Y) beat Kotozakura (O)
Onosato (Y) beat Aonishiki (S)
Leader: Onosato, Hoshoryu (11-2)
Of note: He now trails the Yokozuna pair but it’s not over yet for Aonishiki despite the loss. He does have to beat Hoshoryu tomorrow to spoil a second straight Yokozuna Showdown for the championship though, and it would help him a lot if Kotozakura can beat Onosato.

Juryo:
Asasuiryu (J12) beat Kitanowaka (J12)
Wakanosho (J14) beat Hidenoumi (J9)
Kayo (J8) beat Tsurugisho (J11)
Nishinoryu (J9) beat Takerufuji (J7)
Nishikigi (J6) beat Hakuyozan (J10)
Tochitaikai (J5) beat Himukamaru (J13)
Asanoyama (J4) beat Tamashoho (J11)
Hatsuyama (J5) beat Kagayaki (J4)
Fujiryoga (J13) beat Daiseizan (J3)
Asahakuryu (J2) beat Kazekeno (J8)
Kotoeiho (J2) beat Kotokuzan (J6)
Fujiseiun (J1) beat Shirokuma (J7)
Tohakuryu (J10) beat Hitoshi (J1)
Leader: Fujiryoga (12-1)
Of note: It’s now all but Fujiryoga’s championship, he just has to win tomorrow…but his opponent tomorrow just happens to be Asanoyama. If he loses his last 2, worst-case is a playoff. It could be a 3-way as Hatsuyama is also 10-3 and still with a chance. At 10-3 I think Asanoyama will now be promoted back to the top tier but he may need one more win. Regardless of Asanoyama’s result, it’s been a great tournament for Takasago Beya as all three of their Juryo men have now clinched promotion and it looks like Asahakuryu is headed to the top tier as well. And Wakanosho made the most of his second chance in Juryo by also clinching promotion today and protecting his spot.

Makushita:
Kazuma (Ms15) beat Ryusho (Ms24). KAZUMA MAKUSHITA YUSHO!!! 3rd career championship, 1st Makushita. Based on his rank, there is a chance he will be promoted to Juryo in January.
No match for Enho today, the schedule suggests his last match will be on the Final Day Sunday.

Sandanme:
Kaki (Sd31) beat Chiyoraizan (Sd44). KAKI SANDANME YUSHO!!! 3rd championship, 3rd straight, 1st Sandanme, all in just 3 career tournaments with a near-perfect 20-1 record and 14 straight wins. Will be promoted to Makushita. Sounds like a certain Sekiwake right now.

Jonidan:
Ryuho (Jd45) beat Takahara (Jd85)
Kakueizan (Jd12) beat Wakaterumoto (Jd6). PLAYOFF!!! And the rarest of them too-between stablemates! Both are Otowayama Beya men meaning the former Kakuryu gets to watch two of his wrestlers compete for the championship. That playoff will happen on the Final Day.

Jonokuchi:
Goseiryu (Jk21) beat Fujinoteru (Jk9) GOSEIRYU JONOKUCHI YUSHO!!! 1st career championship. And…RARE KIMARITE ALERT!!! We probably won’t get to see the video but he won by a rare technique I haven’t seen before-ushiromotare, backward lean out. A video demonstrating the move is available on NHK World Japan’s YouTube channel.

Reminder-NHK World Japan will have 50 minutes of LIVE top tier coverage FOR FREE tomorrow at 12:10 AM PT/3:10 AM ET.

Here are the quick results from today’s Day 12 of the November 2025 Grand Sumo Tournament in Fukuoka:
Key: M-Maegashira, K-Komusubi, S-Sekiwake, O-Ozeki, Y-Yokozuna, J-Juryo, Ms-Makushita

Makuuchi (top tier):
Ryuden (M14) beat Meisei (M18)
Chiyoshoma (M17) beat Gonoyama (M13)
Fujinokawa (M12) beat Sadanoumi (M16)
Tomokaze (M12) beat Asakoryu (M16)
Roga (M11) beat Shonannoumi (M15)
Oshoumi (M16) beat Midorifuji (3-9)
Ochiyamamoto (M8) beat Nishikifuji (M15)
Kinbozan (M8) beat Midorifuji (M13)
Shishi (M11) beat Churanoumi (M7)
Tobozaru (M9) beat Abi (M7)
Tokihayte (M14) beat Atamifuji (M6)
Kotoshoho (M10) beat Onokatsu (M6)
Daieisho (M10) beat Shodai (M8)
Kirishima (M2) beat Wakamotoharu (M2)
Hakuoho (M1) beat Hiradoumi (M3)
Wakatakakage (M1) beat Ura (M1)
Tamawashi (M4) beat Takanosho (K)
Aonishiki (S) beat Oshoma (M4)
Kotozakura (O) beat Yoshinofuji (M5)
Onosato (Y) beat Oho (S)
Hoshoryu (Y) beat Takayasu (K)
Leader: Onosato, Hoshoryu, Aonishiki (10-2)
Of note: The next 2 days should decide if it’s a Yokozuna or Aonishiki holding the Emperor’s Cup. Aonishiki gets Onosato tomorrow then will presumably face Hoshoryu Saturday while both Yokozuna also have their Ozeki showdown against Kotozakura, with Hoshoryu first tomorrow. Oho will also be demoted from Sekiwake again, making him 0 for 2 at the rank. Kotozakura now needs one more win to protect his Ozeki rank.
That aside…RARE KIMARITE ALERT! Tobizaru dispatched Abi today with a rare move-kekaeshi, minor inner foot sweep. It involves kicking the opponent’s ankle with the back of your foot, while also sometimes striking their shoulders to move them forward.
At the bottom with as many as 4 Juryo men looking to come up, Chiyoshoma saved his spot by clinching promotion today while Sadanoumi may be going down unless he can win out to salvage 6-9. Also no longer safe is Asakoryu, in a 1-5 slump to fall to 6-6. A 4th straight 6-9 probably won’t keep him up this tome. Shonannoumi is also in the demotion zone at 3-9. Oshoumi is starting to make a run at saving his spot, his 8 match skid after winning his debut which means demotion has now turned into 3 straight wins, if he can get back to 7-8 he probably will get a second chance.

Juryo:
Fujiryoga (11-1) beat Tamashoho (8-4)
Tohakuryu (J10) beat Kazuto (Ms5)
Hidenoumi (J9) beat Kitanowaka (J12)
Nishinoryu (J9) beat Shiden (J14) by default/withdrawal
Wakanosho (J14) beat Kotokuzan (J6)
Himukamaru (J13) beat Nishikigi (J6)
Hatsuyama (J5) beat Asasuiryu (J12)
Kagayaki (J4) beat Tsurugisho (J11)
Asanoyama (J4) beat Kazekeno (J6)
Daiseizan (J3) beat Tochitaikai (J5)
Kotoeiho (J2) beat Hakuyozan (J10)
Asahakuryu (J2) beat Kayo (J8)
Shirokuma (J7) beat Hitoshi (J1)
Fujiseiun (J1) beat Takerufuji (J6)
Leader: Fujiryoga (11-1)
WITHDRAWAL: Shiden (J14). Left leg. Injury occurred during yesterday’s match. Status uncertain. If he can’t return tomorrow or Saturday he will be demoted to Makushita. Nishinoryu got the fusen as a result.
Of note: It remains Fujiryoga’s to lose as he keeps his 2-win lead due to all the 8-3 wrestlers winning. There is a chance for him to win the championship tomorrow if he beats Daiseizan and both Asanoyama & Hatsuyama lose. Should Fujiryoga ginish 14-1 I give him a slim chance to go right to the top tier in January. Asanoyama needs probably one more win at this point to go back up while stablemate & September champion Asahakuryu, although now out of title contention, clinched promotion today and also has a chance to go up. One more win should make it definite. One more win probably sees Daiseizan promoted up too. Not going back up this time is Takerufuji, currently 6-6 at J7. Possibly going down is Hitoshi, now 2-10 at J1. 2-13 might mean straight demotion to Makushita. There is hope for those in danger of demotion because, right now, there is only one Makushita man guaranteed promotion to Juryo (Kyokukaiyu is 4-3 at Ms1) and I see only two others with a real chance (Dewanoryu is 5-1 at Ms3, 6-1 means promotion for sure, Kazuma is 6-0 at Ms15 and has a chance if he wins the championship).

Lower tier notes: No match for Enho today, and looks like no match tomorrow so his final match will come on Day 14 or 15. Tomorrow is Championship Day in the lower tiers where the championship matches will be held and, in the Jonidan, there is potential for a playoff which would be on the Final Day.

Here are the quick results from today’s Day 11 of the November 2025 Grand Sumo Tournament in Fukuoka:
Key: M-Maegashira, K-Komusubi, S-Sekiwake, O-Ozeki, Y-Yokozuna, J-Juryo, Ms-Makushita

Makuuchi (top tier):
Oshoumi (M16) beat Ryuden (M14)
Meisei (M18) beat Mitakeumi (M13)
Tokihayate (M14) beat Gonoyama (M13)
Tomokaze (M12) beat Sadanoumi (M16)
Noishikifuji (M15) beat Fujinokawa (M12)
Shishi (M11) beat Asakoryu (M17)
Midorifuji (M9) beat Shonannoumi (M15)
Chiyoshoma (M17) beat Kinbozan (M8)
Ichiyamammoto (M8) beat Kotoshoho (M10)
Roga (M11) beat Abi (M7)
Churanoumi (M7) beat Daieisho (M10)
Onokatsu (M6) beat Tobizaru (M9)
Atamifuji (M6) beat Tamawashi (M4)
Kirishima (M2) beat Shodai (M5)
Hiradoumi (M3) beat Wakatakakage (M1)
Ura (M3) beat Takayasu (K)
Yosjinofuji (M5) beat Aonishiki (S)
Kotozakura (O) beat Oshoma (M4)
Hoshoryu (Y) beat Oho (S)
Takanosho (K) beat Onosato (Y)
Leaser: Onosato, Hoshoryu, Aonishiki (9-2)
Of note: This changes everything. First up, this is the first time since January that Onosato has a losing streak (he finished 10-5 then in his second tournament at Ozeki). And that Yoshinofuji win yesterday over the champ? Backed up emphatically today with another big win over Aonishiki, which clinches another promotion for the Isegahama man. Hoshoryu may be the big winner here as despite those two first week losses he’s bow co-leader and in position for maybe his first title as a Yokozuna. Tomorrow Onosato gets Oho, Hosboryu has Takayasu and Aonishiki faces Oahoma. Yoshinofuji faces Kotozakura and a win could clinch the Outstanding Performance Prize now that he’s got 8 wins and that would give him two against Yokozuna & Ozeki (he already lost to Hoshoryu). It won’t go to Hakuoho despite his Kinboshi because he is now demoted.
Elsewhere, despite demotion due to early absences Meisei has probably saved his salary with his first win today, which should be enough to keep him in Juryo in January if he doesn’t win again. Sadanoumi could also be demoted to Juryo now as well, Oshoumi is going down unless he wins out and gets to 7-8. And no uncertainty about the status of Aomori in the top tier-that nearly 150-year streak will definitely continue as Noshikifuji clinched promotion today, at the expense of a 4th straight loss for Fujinokawa after a 6-1 start. And another sign things are getting back to normal-that’s 2 straight katasukashi wins for Midorifuji. He may have his mojo back.

Juryo:
Asasuiryu (J12) beat Miyanokaze (Ms4)
Kitanowaka (J12) beat Himukamaru (J13)
Hakuyozan (J10) beat Tohakuryu (J10)
Nishinoryu (J9) beat Wakanosho (J14)
Tsurugisho (J11) beat Hidenoumi (J8)
Fujiryoga (J13) beat Kazekeno (J8)
Kayo (J8) beat Shiden (J14)
Tamashoho (J11) beat Takerufuji (J7)
Asanoyama (J4) beat Kagayaki (J4)
Hatsuyama (J5) beat Daiseizan (J3)
Asahakuryu (J2) beat Tochitaikai (J5)
Kotoeiho (J2) beat Shirokuma (J4)
Fujiseiun (J1) beat Nishikigi (J6)
Kotokuzan (J6) beat Hitoshi (J1)
Leader: Fujiryoga (10-1)
Of note: Shiden may have been injured in his loss today as he was taken out in a wheelchair afterwards. Hochi Sports reports it was a left leg injury. He may be done but updates will follow-if so, that’s demotion to Makushita along with Himukamaru, unless he wins put to get to 6-9 he’ll go back down. Back at the top, once again it’s a rookie’s title to lose as Fujiryoga is now 2 clear of the pack. That pack at 8-4 now includes Asanoyama who will now have a chance to earn promotion back to the top tier, but he probably needs at least 2 more wins. Stablemate Asahakuryu is close to getting there, needing one more win for promotion after today, which could mean 3 Takasago men up there in January if Asakoryu can hang on to his top tier spot as he’s struggling after a fast start yet again. If Fujiryoga wins tomorrow (Tamashoho in the first match) he can all but clinch the championship as if the other 3 at 8-3 lose worst-case now they can only force a playoff.

Lower tier notes: Enho clinched promotion today in Makushita with a win over Kamito, so at 4-2 he’ll move closer to back to Juryo with a 5th win providing a bigger boost if he can get it. The Makushita Championship match is now set for Friday and will be Kazuma vs. Ryusho. If Kazuma wins his second straight championship he will have a slight chance of promotion to Juryo from Ms15. Ryusho, a Ms60 debut in his 3rd tournament, would have a much slimmer chance from Ms24 hut a chance nonetheless. The Sandanme Championship is also set and will be Kaki vs. Chiyoraizan. If Kaki and Ryusho both win, that’s 2 titles for Oitekaze Beya. The Jonidan will be interesting-there are 3 left at 6-0 but Kakueizan & Ryubo are Otowoyama stablemates so they won’t face each other Saturday and could meet in a rare stablemates playoff if both win. In the Jobokuchi, Goseiryu is the lone 6-0 man left so if he wins his final match he is the champion, if he loses there could be a playoff. Goseiryu missed the last 3 tournaments before this one.

Here are the quick results from today’s Day 10 of the November 2025 Grand Sumo Tournament in Fukuoka:
Key: M-Maegashira, K-Komusubi, S-Sekiwake, O-Ozeki, Y-Yokozuna, J-Juryo, Ms-Makushita

Makuuchi (top tier):
Oshoumi (M16) beat Sadanoumi (M16!
Nishikifuji (M15) beat Meisei (M18)
Chiyoshoma (M17) beat Tokihayate (M14)
Shonannoumi (M15) beat Gonoyama (M13)
Mitakeumi (M13) beat Asakoryu (M17)
Midorifuji (M9) beat Ryuden (M15)
Ichiyamamoto (M8) beat Tomokaze (M12)
Kinbozan (M8) beat Fujinokawa (M12)
Roga (M11) beat Churanoumi (M8)
Abi (M7) beat Shishi (M11)
Kotoshoho (M10) beat Atamifuji (M6)
Daieisho (M10) beat Onokatsu (M6)
Shodai (M6) beat Tobizaru (M9)
Wakamotoharu (M2) beat Hiradoumi (M3)
Wakatakakage (M1) beat Hakuoho (M1)
Ura (M3) beat Takanosho (K)
Kirishima (M2) beat Takayasu (K)
Aonishiki (S) beat Tamawashi (M4)
Kotozakura (O) beat Oho (S)
Yosjinofuji (M5) beat Onosato (Y). KINBOSHI!!! The first career Gold Star Victory for Yoshinofuji!
Hoshoryu (Y) beat Oshoma (M4)
Leader: Onosato, Aonishiki (9-1)
Of note: Well, we can stop the 15-0 thinking now. And the door is wide open too thanks to perhaps Yoshinofuji’s biggest career win yet (and clearly validates his “next big thing/future star hype), which moves Aonishiki back into a share of the lead and gets Hoshoryu back to within contention at 8-2. Remember he beat Onosato in September on the final day to force a playoff before Onosato won, and Hoshoryu still leads their head-to-head series. The Yokozuna now move on to Sanyaku the rest of the way before their final day showdown.
Elsewhere, Meisei made his tournament debut after being absent due to recovering from lower back surgery. Already set to be demoted at the equivalent of 0-9, today’s loss seals the deal and will see him in Juryo in January for the first time since July 2020. That lasted just one tournament as he won the championship and came back up but this will be a bigger fall unless he wins out. Worst-case is losing them all could even mean Makushita.
Finally, the long drought is over-for the first time since July, or maybe May, Midorifuji finally won again with a katasukashi, under shoulder swing down, considered his signature technique. And while I haven’t seen match video yet, I’m a little concerned about Takayasu after he lost by tsukihiza, a non-winning technique meaning knee touch down, either inadvertent or not because of an opponent’s technique. That could also mean injury.
Ozeki Watch (unofficial): Besides still having a chance this time, every win now helps improve Aonishiki’s chances in January. He would now need 13 wins in January but could still be promoted here with a championship (not unprecedented-Mitakeumi managed to make it happen in 2 tournaments).

Juryo:
Dewanoryu (Ma3) beat Himukamaru (J13)
Shiden (J14) beat Hakuyozan (J10)
Wakanosho (J14) beat Tohakuryu (J10)
Fujiryoga (J13) beat Hidenoumi (J9)
Asasuiryu (J12) beat Nishinoryu (J9)
Tamashoho (J11) beat Kayo (J8)
Kazekeno (J8) beat Tsurugisho (J11)
Shirokuma (J7) beat Kitanowaka (J12)
Kagayaki (J4) beat Tochitaikai (J5)
Asanoyama (J4) beat Daiseizan (J3)
Takerufuji (J7) beat Kotoeiho (J2)
Asahakuryu (J2) beat Hatsuyama (J5)
Nishikigi (J6) beat Hitoshi (J1)
Kotokuzan (J6) beat Fujiseiun (J1)
Leader: Fujiryoga (9-1)

Lower tier notes: Enho took his second loss today against fellow former top tier wrestler Shimanoumi. falling to 3-2 while Shimanoumi clinched promotion. He’ll try again tomorrow. Also, some news sites are hinting at Dewanoryu, now 5-1 after his Juryo win today, possibly having earned promotion to Juryo for the first time in January as a result. His career beat ranking to date is Ms2 in May.

Finally, having found a new subscription service called JME TV that allows me to access NHK World Premium outside Japan and watch their coverage live and on taped replay during tournaments, there is a chance I will try to do LIVE results for the top tier on the final day (maybe Juryo as there is a YouTube channel that livestreams those matches on Days 1, 8 & 15 by using the live ABEMA stream which is hard to get outside Japan). I checked it out after finding a promo they are advertising on Facebook offering discounts until the end of the year. You can get more information and subscribe at jme.tv or through mobile/smart TV apps for Apple iOS, Apple TV, Android, Amazon Fire TV and Roku.

JME TV is a streaming service provided by NHK, Japan’s public broadcast network, that provides live streams of NHK World Premium (Japanese only, live and some on demand programming), NHK World Japan (English only) and streams of select programs featuring Japanese movies, drama series, variety shows, documentaries, some anime, kids’ programming, some live sports and-during tournaments-a dedicated sumo channel broadcasting replays of all top tier matches, both as they aired live and in highlight packages. These replays air 4 times a day so they are easy to watch. NHK World Premium usually broadcasts all top tier matches live with both Japanese and English commentary available, usually for about 2 hours each day. The service normally costs around $25-27 US per month (they charge taxes which raise the listed price some) and they also have 6-month and annual plans. Currently they have a promo going for 50% off monthly plans for 3 months or just over 25% off 6-month and annual plans (takes annual from $260 to $200 before tax) and 6-month from $140 to $100) with monthly being about $14 during the promo. If you opt not to use the promo code, there may be a 5-day free trial available. The only thing I really don’t like so far is you can get NHK World Japan for free on its own so I’m paying for it in part and also the available on demand selection is limited plus no DVR or downloading due to copyright restrictions & broadcast rights (although on NHK World Premium you can actually go back a week and re-watch most programming, or at least news). And it also doesn’t have the main NHK network but this is the next-beat thing.

Here are the quick results from today’s Day 9 of the November 2025 Grand Sumo Tournament in Fukuoka:
Key: M-Maegashira, K-Komusubi, S-Sekiwake, O-Ozeki, Y-Yokozuna, J-Juryo

Makuuchi (top tier):
Asakoryu (M17) beat Tochitaikai (J5)
Sadanoumi (M16) beat Mitakeumi (M13)
Gonoyama (M13) beat Oshoumi (M16)
Tomokaze (M12) beat Shonannoumi (M15)
Tokihayate (M14) beat Fujinokawa (M12)
Roga (M11) beat Nishikifuji (M15)
Shishi (M11) beat Chiyoshoma (M17)
Ichiyamamoto (M8) beat Ryuden (M14)
Abo (M7) beat Kotoshoho (M10)
Churanoumi (M7) beat Tobizaru (M9)
Onokatsu (M6) beat Kinbozan (M8)
Atamifuji (M6) beat Daieisho (M10)
Midorifuji (M9) beat Shodai (M5)
Ura (M3) beat Wakamotoharu (M2)
Kirishima (M2) beat Hakuoho (M1)
Wakatakakage (M1) beat Takayasu (K)
Oho (S) beat Tamawashi (M4)
Aonishiki (S) beat Hiradoumi (M3)
Kotozakura (O) beat Takanosho (K)
Hoshoryu (Y) beat Yoshinofuji (M5)
Onosato (Y) beat Oshoma (M4)
Leader: Onosato (9-0)
RE-ENTRY: Meisei (M18). Will return tomorrow. Has missed the entire tournament so far due to a back injury. Will be the equivalent of 0-9 and already demoted, but even one win should prevent potential demotion to Makushita. Finishing 6-0 will give him an incredibly slim chance of staying at M18.
Of note: RARE KIMARITE ALERT!!! Midorifuji beat Shodai with a rare favorite technique today-amiuchi, The Fisherman’s Throw. Sadanoumi managed to do this multiple times in a tournament earlier this year. Elsewhere, Oshoumi is the first demotion after a rough 1-8 rookie effort so far, but he can stay in the top tier by winning out or getting to 6-9. Onosato is once again in line for another chance at a perfect championship, there’s one more Kinboshi chance for both Yokozuna tomorrow then it should be Sanyaku the rest of the way. Hoshoryu remains in contention at 7-3 but Aonishiki stands between them at 8-1.
Ozeki Watch: If he doesn’t get there this time, Aonishiki will now be in official promotion contention next time. He clinched a winning record today and the unofficial “magic number” of 33 is now attainable in January (currently he would need 14 wins). To get promoted after this tournament he probably needs to win the championship.

Juryo:
Wakanosho (J14) beat Tamashoho (J11)
Shiden (J14) beat Tohakuryu (J10)
Hakuyozan (J10) beat Fujiryoga (J13)
Kitanowaka (J13) beat Nishinoryu (J9)
Kazekeno (J8) beat Himukamaru (J13)
Kayo (J8) beat Asasuiryu (J12)
Tsurugisho (J11) beat Shirokuma (J7)
Kotokuzan (J6) beat Hidenoumi (J9)
Daiseizan (J3) beat Takerufuji (J7)
Asahakuryu (J2) beat Nishikigi (J6)
Kotoeiho (J2) beat Kagayaki (J4)
Hatsuyama (J5) beat Fujiseiun (J1)
Hitoshi (J1) beat Asanoyama (J4)
Leader: Fujiryoga, Daiseizan (8-1)
Of note: No perfect Juryo debut for Fujiryoga, who also sees an overall 11-match win streak ended. He only has one career tournament so far with more than a loss but that’s only 4 prior (he debuted in March). It also allowed Daiseizan to move into a share of the lead while also clinching promotion, meaning if he can get a couple more wins he could be promoted to the top tier for the first time in January. No demotions yet thanks to Hitoshi getting a win against Asamoyama but now Noshikigi and Himukamaru are in danger of demotion at 2-7, with Himukamaru likely headed back to Makushita with another loss.

Lower tier notes: No match for Enho today, he goes for promotion tomorrow against fellow former top tier and Juryo man Shimanoumi, also looking for promotion as both are 3-1. The Makushita leaderboard is down to the Final 4 with 4 remaining at 5-0 after today’s matches, and two of them ate stablemates (Oitekaze Beya) meaning there is a chance of an all-stablemate playoff for the championship (and higher chance of a playoff period as a result). The Sandanme also has their final 4 at 5-0 set, also including an Oitekaze man so the stable has a chance for multiple championships this tournament. The Jonidan has 6 left at 5-0 including a pair of Otowayama stablemates so there could be a playoff between two of the former Yokozuna Kakuryu’s wrestlers. The Jonokuchi has two currently at 5-0.

Here are the quick results from today’s Day 8-the Halfway Point-of the November 2025 Grand Sumo Tournament in Fukuoka:
Key: M-Maegashira, K-Komusubi, S-Sekiwake, O-Ozeki, Y-Yokozuna, J-Juryo

Makuuchi (top tier):
Chiyoshoma (M17) beat Oshoumi (M16)
Nishikifuji (M15) beat Sadanoumi (M16)
Hatsuyama (J5) beat Ryuden (M14)
Tokihayate (M14) beat Asakoryu (M17)
Mitakeumi (M13) beat Shonannoumi (M15)
Tomokaze (M12) beat Fujinokawa (M12)
Gonoyama (M13) beat Roga (M11)
Midorifuji (M9) beat Shishi (M11)
Kotoshoho (M10) beat Churanoumi (M7)
Abi (M7) beat Daieisho (M10)
Tobizaru (M9) beat Atamifuji (M6)
Ichiyamamoto (M8) beat Onokatsu (M6)
Kinbozan (M8) beat Shodai (M5)
Wakamotoharu (M2) beat Yoshinofuji (M5)
Wakatakakage (M1) beat Oshoma (M4)
Takanosho (K) beat Kirishima (M2)
Takayasu (K) beat Hakuoho (M1)
Aonishiki (S) beat Oho (S)
Kotozakura (O) beat Hiradoumi (M3)
Onosato (Y) beat Tamawashi (M4)
Hoshoryu (Y) beat Ura (M2)
Leader: Onosato (8-0)
Of note: Almost a 9th Kinboshi for Tamawashi but Onosato stayed in the ring on the edge long enough for the Iron Man to go down first and keep the Yokozuna unbeaten. Tamawashi is now #2 all-time in top tier appearances with 25 to go to the record. Aonishiki is the only wrestler one back at 7-1 with Hoshoryu in a group at 6-2. Outside of the absent Meisei still no demotions yet but that could change tomorrow. Tomorrow may be the last of the Kinboshi chances for this tournament as both Yokozuna have yet to start the Sanyaku slate and they’ll face each other on the final day.
Ozeki Watch (unofficial): If Aonishiki can get 4 more wins that will continue rumblings that he could be considered for promotion in only his second Sanyaku appearance as it would be 3 straight 11-win efforts. He has a good chance to protect his rank tomorrow as he gets 2-6 Hiradoumi.

Juryo:
Asasuiryu (J12) beat Tsurugisho (J11)
Wakanosho (J14) beat Hakuyozan (J10)
Fujiryoga (J13) beat Tohakuryu (J10)
Nishinoryu (J9) beat Himukamaru (J13)
Kitanowaka (J12) beat Kayo (J8)
Tamashoho (J11) beat Kazekeno (J8)
Takerufuji (J7) beat Hidenoumi (J9)
Shiden (J14) beat Shirokuma (J7)
Kagayaki (J4) beat Nishikigi (J6)
Daiseizan (J3) beat Kotoeiho (J2)
Asahakuryu (J4) beat Kotokuzan (J6)
Tochitaikai (J5) beat Hitoshi (J1)
Asanoyama (J2) beat Fujiseiun (J1)
Leader: Fujiryoga (8-0)
Of note: The Juryo rookie becomes the first wrestler to clinch promotion in the top 2 tiers (Onosato clinched a winning record and Yokozuna can’t be demoted) and now has just Daiseizan one behind at 7-1. 4 are at 6-2 including Asanoyama, who is getting closer to a potential top tier return for the first time in over 500 days when/if it happens. What may help him is that Hitoshi won’t be going back up unless he wins out as he is now 1-7 and on the verge of demotion.

Lower tier notes: With Promotion Day now completed the Makushita leaderboard is down to 7 remaining at 4-0, with 2 of them-Tochimusashi & Kazuma-having a chance at Juryo promotion if they finish 7-0. If Tochimusashi gets promoted he would be back in Juryo for the first time in 2 years, ironically his only winning record in the second tier resulted in his first Juryo Championship, every other time (4 so far) resulted in demotion. Enho won his match today and is now at 3-1, needing one more win for promotion. The Sandanme has 9 at 4-0 with promotions clinched. The Jonidan has 12 at 4-0 while the Jonokuchi has 4 at 4-0.

UPDATE: Meisei will return/enter on Day 10. Any wins he can get should guarantee he will not be demoted to Makushita in January. His only hope to stay in the top tier, and it’s incredibly slim, is to win all 6 of his matches.

Here are the quick results form today’s Day 7 of the November 2025 Grand Sumo Tournament in Fukuoka:
Key: M-Maegashira, K-Komusubi, S-Sekiwake, O-Ozeki, Y-Yokozuna, J-Juryo

Makuuchi (top tier):
Nishikifuji (M15) beat Asakoryu (M17)
Asanoyama (J4) beat Tokihayate (M14)
Sadanoumi (M16) beat Ryuden (M14)
Chiyoshoma (M17) beat Mitakeumi (M13)
Roga (M11) beat Oshoumi (M16)
Shishi (M11) beat Shonannoumi (M15)
Gonoyama (M13) beat Kotoshoho (M10)
Daieisho (M10) beat Tomokaze (M12)
Fujinokawa (M12) beat Tobizaru (M9)
Churanoumi (M7) beat Abi (M7))
Onokatsu (M6) beat Midorifuji (M9)
Kinbozan (M8) beat Atamifuji (M6)
Shodai (M5) beat Ichiyamamoto (M8)
Yoshinofuji (M5) beat Hiradoumi (M3)
Hakuoho (M1) beat Oshoma (M4)
Wakatakakage (M1) beat Takanosho (K)
Kirishima (M2) beat Oho (S)
Aonishiki (S) beat Takayasu (K)
Wakamotoharu (M2) beat Kotozakura (O)
Hoshoryu (Y) beat Tamawashi (M4)
Onosato (Y) beat Ura (M3)
Leader: Onosato (7-0)
Of note: Nikkan Sports noted this was Asanoyama’s first top tier appearance in 486 days, his most recent demotion down to the lower tiers coming a couple years ago due to another serious knee injury. At 5-2 now he goes into the second week still with a chance at promotion back up in January depending on how he finishes…based on how others are doing I think 10 wins may be enough but ideally he’ll get 11 or 12. He started 0-2 but has now won 5 straight so hopefully he keeps it going. Right now at least 2 spots figure to be opening due to demotions (definitely one because Meisei won’t return tomorrow and that guarantees demotion) and at least one Juryo man above him is not getting promoted back up without a miracle. Elsewhere, still Onosato’s title to lose and time to start wondering if he can get the perfect championship, although 3 remain one back at 6-1 including Fujinokawa and Aonishiki, who is potentially halfway to Ozeki promotion consideration now. Hoshoryu remains 2 back at 5-2.
Finally, with today’s appearance Tamawashi’s latest Iron Man record was attained-he is now tied for 2nd place all-time in top tier appearances at 1444. He has 26 to go to tie the all-time record, meaning if he continues showing up every day he will set that record on March 2026 Day 4. The overall total match record? Still 10 tournaments away. It’s 1891 and he’s at 1740. So he’d have to make it through the July 2027 Tournament.

Juryo:
Fujiryoga (J13) beat Wakanosho (J14)
Tsurugisho (J11) beat Shiden (J14)
Asasuiryu (J12) beat Tamashoho (J11)
Tohakuryu (J10) beat Himukamaru (J13)
Kitanowaka (J12) beat Hakuyozan (J10)
Kayo (J8) beat Hidenoumi (J9)
Shirokuma (J7) beat Nishinoryu (J9)
Takerufuji (J7) beat Kazekeno (J8)
Kagayaki (J4) beat Kotokuzan (J6)
Daiseizan (J3) beat Nishikigi (J6)
Kotoeiho (J2) beat Asahakuryu (J2)
Tochitaikai (J5) beat Fujiseiun (J1)
Hatsuyama (J5) beat Hitoshi (J1)
Leader: Fujiryoga (7-0)
Of note: Fujiryoga now is the only unbeaten wrestler left in the top 2 tiers as his impressive rookie debut effort continues, with a resurgent Shirokuma right behind at 6-1 along with Daiseizan. Fujiryoga goes for promotion tomorrow against Tohakuryu while Hatsuyama will be the Juryo man getting his turn in the top tier tomorrow. He is currently 5-2 with still a chance at promotion up if he can keep winning and get a little help.

Lower tier notes: Today is the first half of Promotion Day in the lower tiers, where the co-leaders will be 4-0 and thus secure promotions for the next tournament. Most of the Makushita 3-0 wrestlers will be going for promotion tomorrow as there is just one at 4-0 after today and nearly a dozen more up tomorrow, with most if not all facing off so the co-leader ranks will thin quickly. No match for Enho today as expected, he’ll be back in action tomorrow trying to go to 3-1. The Sandanme currently has 4 at 4-0 with another 10 at 3-0 competing tomorrow. The Jonidan has 6 currently at 4-0 with 14 more at 3-0 to compete tomorrow, while the Jonokuchi has 5 currently at 3-0.

Reminder; NHK World Japan will have 50 minutes of LIVE top tier coverage FOR FREE tomorrow beginning at 12:10 AM PT/3:10 AM ET.