Tag: ozumo

The big post-January Tournament happening in sumo this weekend was yesterday’s retirement & haircutting ceremony for former Yokozuna Terunofuji, now stablemaster Isegahama. For those who don’t have access to ABEMA (where it’s available on demand in its entirety until Thursday) or who don’t want to search for short cut-up clips of the event on YouTube (they are there however), the official Isegahama Beya YouTube channel has put together a 35 minute highlight package including the final topknot butting by the former Isegahama (now Miyagino), which you can watch FOR FREE below (note the only subtitles available are Japanese which are auto-generated, you can auto-translate to English but it’ll be hilariously bad at times):

With the January 2026 Grand Sumo Tournament now in the books, here is a look back at the final standings and early post-tournament news from the first rankings meeting:

First, here is the final Hoshitori (Tournament Records) based on the Banzuke for the top 2 tiers, records are in win-loss-absent format (for rankings purposes absent is treated like a loss)::
Makuuchi (top tier):
Yokozuna-Hoshoryu (10-5), Onosato (10-5)
Ozeki-Aonishiki (12-3, Tournament Champion), Kotozakura (8-7)
Sekiwake-Kirishima (11-4), Takayasu (8-7)
Komusubi-Oho (4-11), Wakamotoharu (8-7)
Maegashira 1-Ichiyamamoto (4-11), Yoshinofuji (8-7)
Maegashira 2-Ura (4-11). Wakatakakage (9-6)
Maegashira 3-Takanosho (5-10), Hakunofuji (5-8-2)
Maegashira 4-Daieisho (7-8), Atamifuji (12-3, lost playoff)
Maegashira 5-Tamawashi (5-10), Churanoumi (9-6)
Maegashira 6-Hiradoumi (9-6), Onokatsu (7-8)
Maegashira 7-Oshoma (7-8), Fujinokawa (10-5)
Maegashira 8-Shodai (7-8), Kinbozan (4-11)
Maegashira 9-Gonoyama (7-8), Roga (7-8)
Maegashira 10-Tokihayate (8-7), Kotoshoho (9-6)
Maegashira 11-Chiyoshoma (6-9), Nishikifuji (6-6-3)
Maegashira 12-Midorifuji (6-9), Abi (10-5)
Maegashira 13-Tobizaru (7-8), Tomokaze (4-11)
Maegashira 14-Shishi (9-6), Mitakeumi (7-8)
Maegashira 15-Ryuden (6-9), Asakoryu (9-6)
Maegashira 16-Asanoyama (9-6), Oshoumi (10-5)
Maegashira 17-Asahakuryu (8-7), Hatsuyama (2-13)

Juryo:
Juryo 1-Kotoeiho (8-7), Fujiseiun (11-4)
Juryo 2-Daiseizan (7-8), Kagayaki (6-9)
Juryo 3-Fujiryoga (9-6), Shirokuyma (6-9)
Juryo 4-Sadanoumi (9-6), Shonannoumi (5-10)
Juryo 5-Tamashoho (5-10), Takerufuji (8-7)
Juryo 6-Kotokuzan (3-12), Nishinoryu (9-6)
Juryo 7-Tochitaikai (3-7-5), Asasuiryu (10-5)
Juryo 8-Meisei (8-7), Kitanowaka (7-8)
Juryo 9-Hitoshi (9-6), Kayo (9-6)
Juryo 10-Kazekeno (5-10), Tohakuryu (7-8)
Juryo 11-Wakanosho (12-3, Tournament Champion), Tsurugisho (6-9)
Juryo 12-NIshikigi (7-8), Kuokukaiyu (10-5)
Juryo 13-Hidenoumi (5-10), Dewanoryu (8-7)
Juryo 14-Hakuyozan (6-9), Kazuma (8-7)

Notes: Is it too early to think about Aonishiki Yokozuna? He’s got the consecutive championships now but the first one was at Sekiwake so that may mean having to go for promotion in March and doing what he’s done every tournament so far-11 or 12 wins. Based on the champion’s interview and post-tournament Association comments promotion contention is a no right now. Both Yokozuna had injury issues/rumors and struggled despite managing 10 wins each and Onosato getting back into championship contention at the end but they both started 6-1 then it fell apart. Kotozakura showed flashes of contention but as usual for this past year slumped late, losing his last 3 to fall out of it and disappoint yet again with only 8 wins to barely protect his rank. Kirishima & Takayasu will stay Sekiwake, with Kirishima needing a championship next time for potential Ozeki promotion because he was M2 last tournament. Wakamotoharu salvaged his rank on the last day after an 0-5 start, rallying to get to 8-7 while Oho will take another big fall as he can’t break through in Sanyaku. Ichiyamamoto’s personal best ranking effort ended early with a disastrous 1-9 start while Yoshinofuji rescued a Special Prize with his win today. Ura also is taking another big fall while Atamifuji is the big toss-up after his playoff loss-he could finally reach Sanyaku but based on Wakamotoharu saving his rank and the playoff loss I believe he won’t make it and will be M1 in March. For now it looks like the only definite demotion to Juryo is Hatsuyama, who may be lucky to hang on to Juryo after a 2-13 top tier debut at M17. Ryuden is a big maybe for demotion as is Tomokaze. It was also revealed there was no Technique Prize awarded because it would have gone yet again to Aonishiki but as Ozeki or Yokozuna he is not eligible for Special Prizes (only Maegashira, Komusubi & Sekiwake are).
For Juryo, It’s been revealed on social media that Shirokuma was injured in his final day match. Twisted ankle. Status uncertain. That aside, the numbers game is going to shun somebody again, this time I think it will be Kotoeiho staying in Juryo while Fujiseiun gets promoted this time. Fujiryoga will probably slot in as the other J1 while Sadanoumi likely just misses out on a top tier return after a strong start. Asasuiryu had an impressive finish after starting 0-4, going 10-1 the rest of the way while Wakanosho won his last 6 and 8 of his last 9 for his first championship. At the bottom, Hakuyozan & Hidenoumi look like they’ll be demoted to Makushita and possibly Tochitaikai, which if that happens would mean no Kasugano Beya wrestlers in the top 2 tiers for the first time in 60 years. Thanks to a final day win Nishikigi is probably safe one more time. As for Tsurugisho’s pledge to retire if demoted out of Juryo again? 6-9 at J11 probably means no retirement (it’s in big part because he announced his marriage at the start of the tournament). But reportedly he was also injured on the final day. Status uncertain but if he can’t compete in March then it’s over. Despite finishing with consecutive losses Kazuma & Dewanoryu did enough beforehand to clinch promotion and will stay in Juryo with 8 wins each.

The Shin-Juryo & Sai-Juryo rikishi for March 2026 have been announced: Promoted to Juryo for the first time are Toshinofuji (the former Seihakuho) and Fukuzaki, who also will be kaimei as his new shikona (ring name) will be Fujitensei. Being promoted back to Juryo after prior demotion is Shimazuumi. There were 8 retirements which includes Daiamami, who was the only one above the Sandanme to retire (2 Sandanme, 3 Jonidan, 2 Jonokuchi).

Also, it was announced earlier this week that Tamawashi has been recognized by Guinness World Records for his Iron Man streak of never missing a day (excluding 2 expunged absent days that were pandemic-related because they were not his fault. There were policies at one time stating of one wrestler got Covid-19 during a tournament, the entire stable had to withdraw even if they did not have the virus. Mitakeumi got an extra chance at Ozeki because this would have otherwise resulted in demotion due to having to withdraw because of this).

In other major off-dohyo news, Tokiwayama Beya is changing hands and names because the current Tokiwayama stepped down after the tournament because he just reached, or is about to reach, the mandatory retirement age of 65. It will now become Minatogawa Beya as the former Takakeisho takes over as stablemaster. This may open the Tokiwayama elder stock for Takanosho when he retires as it’s believed he holds it but if he wants to be a stablemaster he may have to go elsewhere as Minatogawa/Takakeisho has nearly 40 years until he turns 65. Also coming up this Saturday is the retirement & haircutting ceremony for the former Terunofuji, now Isegahama. Watch for clips hopefully showing up on YouTube in the next week or two. Also coming in the next couple weeks os the 2026 Hakuho Cup, the 16th annual event held by the legendary former Yokozuna, now without Japan Sumo Association backing or involvement (namely no former Isegahama-now Miyagino-keeping a close leash on Hakubo). Live (and hopefully on demand streams) of the event will be available FOR FREE on YouTube.

UPDATE: The Terunofuji retirement event will be streamed live on ABEMA beginning Friday at 5 PN PT/8 PM ET.

Here are the quick LIVE results from today’s Day 15-the Final Day-of the January 2026 Grand Sumo Tournament in Tokyo:
Key: M-Maegashira, K-Komusubi, S-Sekiwake, O-Ozeki, Y-Yokozuna, J-Juryo, Ms-Makushita, Sd-Sandanme, Jd-Jonidan, Jk-Jonokuchi

Makuuchi (top tier):
Asahakuryu (M17) beat Sadanoumi (J4)
Kotoeiho (J1) beat Ryuden (M15)
Mitakeumi (M14) beat Midorifuji (M12)
Tobizaru (M13) beat Chiyoshoma (M11)
Kotoshoho (M10) beat Hatsuyama (M17)
Roga (M9) beat Tomokaze (M13)
Asakoryu (M15) beat Gonoyama (M9)
Shodai (M8) beat Asanoyama (M16)
Fujinokawa (M7) beat Tokihayate (M10)
Atamifuji (M4) beat Oshoumi (M16)
Daieisho (M4) beat Shishi (M14)
Wakatakakage (M2) beat Hiradoumi (M6)
Ura (M2) beat Tamawashi (M5)
Yoshinofuji (M1) beat Oshoma (M7)
Ichiyamamoto (M1) beat Kinbozan (M8)
Wakamotoharu (K) beat Onokatsu (M6)
Takanosho (M3) beat Oho (K)
Churanoumi (M5) beat Takayasu (S)
Kirishima (S) beat Abi (M12)
Aonishiki (O) beat Kotozakura (O). PLAYOFF!!! There will be an Aonishiki-Atamifuji rematch for the championship!
Hoshoryu (Y) beat Onosato (Y)
Playoff: Aonishiki beat Atamifuji. AONISHIKI YUSHO!!! The 2nd career-and consecutive-Emperor’s Cup for Aonishiki!
CHAMPION: Aonishiki (12-3)

Juryo:
Hakuyozan (J14) beat Takakento (Ms3)
Shimazuumi (Ms5) beat Hidenoumi (J13)
Nishikigi (J12) beat Kazekeno (J10)
Asasuiryu (J7) beat Dewanoryu (J13)
Hitoshi (J9) beat Nishinoryu (J6)
Fukuzaki (Ms3) beat Kotokuzan (J6)
Kyokukaiyu (J12) beat Takerufuji (J5)
Tamashoho (J5) beat Kazuma (J14)
Kayo (J9) beat Shonannoumi (J4)
Kitanowaka (J8) beat Shirokuma (J3)
Wakanosho (J11) beat Fujiryoga (J3). WAKANOSHO JURYO YUSHO!!! 1st career championship
Kagayaki (J2) beat Tsurugisho (J11)
Meisei (J8) beat Daiseizan (J2)
Fujiseiun (J1) beat Tohakuryu (J10)
CHAMPION: Wakanosho (12-3)

Jonokuchi:
Playoff: Asahifuji (Jk19) beat Aoifuji (Jk17). ASAHIFUJI JONOKUCHI YUSHO!!! 1st career championship in first tournament

TOURNAMENT CHAMPIONS:
Makuuchi: Aonishiki (O) (2nd Emperor’s Cup, 4th career championship)
Juryo: Wakanosho (J11) (1st career)
Makushita: Nobehara (Ms54) (1st career)
Sandanme: Hinanofuji (Sd23) (2nd career, 2nd Sandanme)
Jonidan: Koseiryu (Jd3) (1st career)
Jonokuchi: Asahifuji (Jk17). (1st career)

SPECIAL PRIZES:
Outstanding Performance (best record with most wins vs. Yokuzuna & Ozeki): Yoshinofuji (Correction-it was originally stated Atamifujji won this as well or would if he won bis match, which he did. Apparently he had to win the championship too, which he did not)
Fighting Spirit (best record with best display of fighting spirit): Atamifuji, Kirishima (Oshoumi & Abi would’ve gotten this with a win)
Technique (winning record with best display of technique/most winning techniques used): None

The next tournament is 3/8-3/22 at Osaka Prefectural Gym in Osaka. Tickets go on sale 2/7. The initial post-tournament wrap-up and news post will tentatively come Wednesday or Thursday. The new Banzuke will be announced on 2/23 (2/22 US time).

Here are the quick results from today’s Day 14-the penultimate day-of the January 2026 Grand Sumo Tournament in Tokyo:
Key: M-Maegashira, K-Komusubi, S-Sekiwake, O-Ozeki, Y-Yokozuna, J-Juryo. Ms-Makushita

Makuuchi (top tier):
Kotoshoho (M10) beat Mitakeumi (M14)
Gonoyama (M9) beat Hatsuyama (M17)
Asahakuryu (M17) beat Shodai (M8)
Midorifuji (M12) beat Kinbozan (M8)
Oshoma (M7) beat Ryuden (M15)
Fujinokawa (M7) beat Asakoryu (M15)
Oshoumi (M16) beat Hiradoumi (M6)
Tobizaru (M13) beat Onokatsu (M6)
Tamawashi (M5) beat Tomokaze (M13)
Churanoumi (M5) beat Roga (M9)
Chiyoshoma (M11) beat Takanosho (M3)
Wakatakakage (M2) beat Daieisho (M4)
Tokihayate (M10) beat Ichiyamamoto (M1)
Yoshinofuji (M1) beat Shishi (M14)
Ura (M2) beat Oho (K)
Wakamotoharu (K) beat Asanoyama (M16)
Atamifuji (M4) beat Kirishima (S)
Abi (M12) beat Takayasu (S)
Hoshoryu (Y) beat Kotozakura (O)
Onosato (Y) beat Aonishiki (O)
Leader: Aonishiki, Atamifuji (11-3)
Of note: The championship will be decided tomorrow, but it won’t be simple because Aonishiki-Atamifuji already happened on Day 12. So here are the championship scenarios:
1-If either Aonishiki (Kotozakura) or Atamifuji (Oshoumi) win AND the other loses, the winner is the champion.
2-If both win, there will be a playoff.
3-if both lose, there will be a 4-way playoff with Aonishiki, Atamifuji, Oshoumi and the Kirishima-Abi winner as both are now 10-4 so the winner becomes a co-leader. But if Onosato wins the Yokozuna Showdown tomorrow in this scenario, there would be a FIVE-WAY playoff!
Atamifuji is up first tomorrow so Aonishiki will know his destiny before he faces Kotozakura. Kirishima-Abi happens right before Aonishiki-Kotozakura, and of course Onosato-Hoshoryu is last and remember that despite Onosato’s playoff win history between them still favors Hoshoryu.
At the bottom, Sadanoumi & Kotoeiho will be the Juryo men up for tomorrow’s final day, both trying to get back to the top tier in March-Sadanoumi already has promotion at 9-5 but probably does need that 10th win (Asahakuryu) to move up from J4, Kotoeiho is 7-7 at J1 so he must win (Ryuden).
Also of note: With this win Tamawashi (finally) moves into 9th place all-time in top tier wins with 707, breaking a tie with Musashimaru (now Musashigawa). A long way to go to 8th which is 777.

Juryo:
Toshinofuji (Ms2) beat Hakuyozan (J14)
Meisei (J8) beat Dewanoryu (J13)
Kotokuzan (J6) beat Nishikigi (J12)
Nishinoryu (J9) beat Kazuma (J14)
Kyokukaiyu (J12) beat Tamashoho (J5)
Takerufuji (J5) beat Hidenoumi (J13)
Sadanoumi (J4) beat Kayo (J9)
Kitanowaka (J8) beat Shonannoumi (J4)
Fujiryoga (J3) beat Tsurugisho (J11)
Tohakuryu (J10) beat Shirokuma (J3)
Asasuiryu (J7) beat Daiseizan (J2)
Kazekeno (J10) beat Kagayaki (J2)
Wakanosho (J11) beat Kotoeiho (J1)
Fujiseiun (J1) beat Hitoshi (J9)
Leader: Wakanosho (11-3)
Of note: The Juryo title picture is much simpler tomorrow-if Wakanosho wins (Fujiryoga), he is the champion. If Wakanosho loses and Fujiseiun wins (Tohakuryu), there will be a playoff. Wakanosho is up first and Fujiseiun is the last match of the day. Fujiseiun is headed to the top tier regardless, if Wakanosho wins the championship I don’t think 12-3 at J11 will be enough. But he should be J1 or J2 for sure, at worst J3 with top tier demotions. I don’t think Daiseizen will move up even if he clinches promotion tomorrow to finish 8-7 at J2 but Fujiryoga will have a chance if he wins to get to 10-5 at J3. With his win today it looks like Toshinofuji, the former Seihakuho, is probably getting promoted to Juryo in March for the first time. He was considered the last of the real Hakuho big-time prospects before the Isegahama takeover. As far as anyone else coming up, Himukamaru is a toss-up for a return at 4-3 from Ms2 as he is done, Fukuzaki has a chance fro Ms3 if he wins tomorrow to finish 5-2 and maybe Shimazuumi from Ms5 if he gets to 6-1. I’d like to see Okaryu have a chance as he is a stablemate of Hoshoryu and finished 6-1 (lost his first match then won all the rest) but Ms7 may be too far down. He probably goes to Ms3, maybe Ms2.

Reminder: NHK World Japan will have 90 minutes of LIVE top tier coverage, including the final matches, playoff if necessary, awards ceremony and champions’ interview, FOR FREE TONIGHT beginning at 11:30 PM PT/2:30 AM ET. NHK World Premium coverage begins at 11 PM PT/2 AM ET. I will try and do live results tonight beginning with Juryo around 9:30 PM PT/12:30 AM ET.

Here are the quick results from today’s Day 13-Championship Day-of the January 2026 Grand Sumo Tournament in Tokyo:
Key: M-Maegashira, K-Komusubi, S-Sekiwake, O-Ozeki, Y-Yokozuna, J-Juryo, Ms-Makushita, Sd-Sandanme, Jd-Jonidan, Jk-Jonokuchi

Makuuchi (top tier):
Asahakuryu (M17) beat Kotoeiho (J1)
Ryuden (M15) beat Chiyoshoma (M11)
Tokihayate (M10) beat Tomokaze (M13)
Roga (M9) beat Tobizaru (M13)
Gonoyama (M9) beat Midorifuji (M12)
Hatsuyama (M17) beat Kinbozan (M8)
Mitakeumi (M14) beat Shodai (M6)
Fujinokawa (M7) beat Kotoshoho (M10)
Asakoryu (M15) beat Oshoma ((M7)
Atamifuji (M4) beat Abi (M12)
Onokatsu (M6) beat Hakunofuji (M3) by default/withdrawal
Wakatakakage (M2) beat Churanouni (M5)
Takanosho (M3) beat Ura (M2)
Daieisho (M4) beat Yoshinofuji (M1)
Ichiyamamoto (M1) beat Tamawashi (M5)
Wakamotoharu (K) beat Osboumi (M16)
Hiradoumi (M6) beat Oho (K)
Takayasu (S) beat Asanoyama (M16)
Kirishima (S) beat Shishi (M14)
Onosato (Y) beat Kotozakura (O)
Aonishiki (O) beat Hoshoryu (Y)
Leader: Aonishiki (11-2)
WITHDRAWAL: Hakunofuji (M3). Toe. Tournament over. Injury occurred yesterday in loss to Aonishiki where his foot turned awkwardly at the end of the match. Status uncertain beyond this weekend. Will be demoted. Onokatsu got the fusen again as a result. (UPDATE: Per Hochi Sports, out about 4 weeks. That means he should be back for March)
Of note: It’s Aonishiki’s to lose but he can’t win the championship tomorrow because both Kirishima & Atamifuji are 10-3 and face off tomorrow. No 3rd straight playoff for Hosboryu as 8-5 means he is out of it, while Onosato is 9-4 and needs a lot of help as do the other 5 with that record. In fact, Onosato’s fate is the easiest to decide because he has Aonishiki tomorrow-he must win to have any chance at a 6th championship. At the bottom, Hatsuyama got his second win today which, despite a big demotion coming, should be enough to at least keep him in Juryo.
Finally, I don’t think Onokatsu will get lucky and fusen his way to promotion, he’s gonna have to face Tobizaru tomorrow barring the unexpected. But the last two days did help, taking him from 5-6 to 7-6.

Juryo:
Kayo (J9) beat Nishikigi (J12)
Hitoshi (J9) beat Hakuyozan (J14)
Kazuma (J14) beat Meisei (J8)
Asasuiryu (J7) beat Taurugisho (J11)
Dewanoryu (J14) beat Takerufuji (J5)
Kazekeno (J10) beat Tamashoho (J5)
Shonannoumi (J4) beat Hidenouni (J13)
Kyokukaiyu (J12) beat Sadanoumi (J4)
Shirokuma (J3) beat Kotokuzan (J6)
Nishinoryu (J6) beat Fujiryoga (J3)
Kitanowaka (J8) beat Kagayaki (J2)
Daiseizan (J2) beat Tohakuryu (J10)
Wakanosho (J11) beat Fujiseiun (J1)
Leader: Wakanosho (10-3)
Of note: Wakanosho now controls his destiny and the championship after today. If he beats Kotoeiho tomorrow and Hitoshi beats Fujiseiun, Wakanosho is the champion. Otherwise, Fujiseiun can still force a playoff. A Wakanosho loss could also keep as many as 7 others in contention for a playoff, including newcomer Kazuma who continued his impressive rebound from an 0-3 start by securing promotion today. At the bottom, Hakuyozan will presumably be demoted to Makushita at 5-8 now while Hidenouni is in danger of demotion at 5-8 along with Nishikigi at 6-7. The others at the bottom, Dewanoryu & Kyokukaiyu, clinched promotions today. As far as potential Makushita promotions, nobody who still has a chance competed today. Records so far show perhaps 5 with a chance still, and more realistically 3 at best.

Makushita:
Nobehara (Ms54) beat Enho (Ms11). NOBEHARA MAKUSHITA YUSHO!!! 1st career championship. So close and yet so far away for Enho, who just misses out on potential Juryo promotion. He’ll try again in Match from a much closer rank.

Sandanme:
Hananofuji (Sd23) beat Kakueizan (Sd9). HANANOFUJI SANDANME YUSBO!!! 2nd career championship and 2nd Sandanme championship for the former Kawazoe. Will be promoted to Makushita as he tries to climb back up to Juryo himself after a long injury absence.

Jonidan:
Asanojo (Jd49) beat Takakurayama (Jd68)
Koseiryu (Jd3) beat Chiyoyamato (Jd41). KOSEIRYU JONIDAN YUSHO!!! First career championship. Takakurayama was eliminated from contention with his loss.

Jonokuchi:
Asahifuji (Jk19) beat Wakaonehara (Jk1)
Aoifuji (Jk17) beat Datenoumi (Jd98). PLAYOFF!!! And between stablemates! Both Isegahama men will face off for the championship on Sunday.

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. NHK World Premium will have 2 hours of top tier coverage beginning at 11 PM PT/2 AM ET, and remember if you are in the US or Canada you can subscribe to Jme and new subscribers get a 5 day free trial so you can watch the final weekend for free that way.

UPDATE: From the lower tiers, Nikkan Sports reports we have another retirement: Kenho (Jk5), who is calling it quits after nearly 15 years despite earning promotion with a 5-2 record this tournament. His highest career rank was Ms59 for one tournament and he nearly won one Sandanme Championship, losing in a playoff in January 2012. He was better known for being, at one point, one of the heaviest wrestlers ever at roughly 575 pounds, but following major health issues including having part of his stomach removed he reportedly slimmed down to about 420 pounds although for this tournament he was listed as back up to 501.6 pounds. His career record was 258-254-90 (win-loss-absent).

Here are the quick results from today’s Day 12 of the January 2026 Grand Sumo Tournament in Tokyo:
Key: M-Maegashira, K-Komusubi, S-Sekiwake, O-Ozeki, Y-Yokozuna, J-Juryo, Ms-Makushita

Makuuchi (top tier):
Tobizaru (M13) beat Mitakeumi (M14)
Chiyoshoma (M11) beat Tomokaze (M13)
Asakoryu (M15) beat Tokihayate (M10)
Kotoshoho (M10) beat Asahakuryu (M17)
Roga (M9) beat Hatsuyama (M17)
Shodai (M8) beat Midorifuji (M12)
Ryuden (M15) beat Kinbozan (M8)
Asanoyama (M16) beat Fujjnokawa (M7)
Onokatsu (M6) beat Nishikifuji (M11) by default/withdrawal
Gonoyama (M9) beat Tamawashi (M5)
Oshoumi (M16) beat Churanouni (M5)
Daieisho (M4) beat Oshoma (M6)
Ura (M2) beat Hakunofuji (M3)
Takanosho (M3) beat Ichiyamamoto (M1)
Wakatakakage (M2) beat Yoshinofuji (M1)
Shishi (M14) beat Oho (K)
Hiradoumi (M6) beat Wakamotoharu (K)
Kotozakura (O) beat Abi (M12)
Aonishiki (O) beat Atamifuji (M4)
Kirishima (S) beat Hoshoryu (Y)
Onosato (Y) beat Takayasu (S)
Leader: Aonishiki (10-2)
WITHDRAWAL: Nishikifuji (M11). Herniated discs and right elbow. Tournament over. Out at least 2 weeks. Will finish the equivalent of 6-9 (he was 6-5 going into today after 2 straight losses) and be demoted but his top tier spot is safe. Onokatsu got the fusen as a result.
Of note: No perfect attendance this time. Nishikifuji is the first top tier withdrawal of the tournament but despite his demotion Aomori’s streak of unbroken top tier representation going back to the 1800s will continue as Nishikifuji will stay in the top tier while Takerufuji is still in Juryo.
Of note: it looks like two straight tournaments without a Yokozuna champion, and now it’s perhaps Aonishiki’s to lose. If he can win out and claim the title at 13-2, I think we might hear some Yokozuna rumblings as it would be consecutive championships. But first he must get by the current Yokozuna beginning tomorrow with Hoshoryu, and here’s a maybe-shocker: Including the November playoff they have met 4 times to date…Aonishiki has won them all. Against Onosato? 0-3. Both Yokozuna are 8-4 and will be out of it with another loss, with Onosato facing Kotozakura tomorrow after the Ozeki got his 8th win to protect his rank again. 5 are still in it at 9-3 including Asanoyama, looking for his second top tier title.

Juryo:
Himukamaru (Ms2) beat Hakuyozan (J14!
Kyokukaiyu (J12) beat Kazekeno (J10)
Kazuma (J14) beat Kitanowaka (J8)
Hidenouni (J13) beat Kotokuzan (J6)
Nishinoryu (J6) beat Dewanoryu (J13)
Nishikigi (J12) beat Tamashoho (J5)
Tsurugisho (J11) beat Sadanoumi (J4)
Tohakuryu (J10) beat Shonannoumi (J4)
Fujiryoga (J3) beat Kayo (J9)
Takerufuji (J5) beat Shirokuma (J3)
Daiseizan (J2) beat Hitoshi (J9)
Wakanosho (J11) beat Kagayaki (J2)
Asasuiryu (J7) beat Kotoeiho (J1)
Fujiseiun (J1) beat Meisei (J6)
Leader: Fujiseiun, Wakanosho (9-3)
Of note: It’s now pretty much definite that Fujiseiun will be promoted to the top tier in March with likely at least 2 demotions. Kagayaki has all but lost his chance now at 5-7, Kotoeiho still needs a win at 7-5 while Daiseizan needs to win out at 6-6. Fujiryoga & Sadanoumi both will be promoted but need to win out to have any chance. At the bottom, Himukamaru clinched promotion today so he has a chance at a quick Juryo return, but it will depend on the numbers game. Both Ms1 ranks will be demoted (Tocjimusashi is 2-4, Mita is absent) and fellow Ms2 Toshinofuji (fka Seihakuho) is also promoted at 4-2, Shimazuuni is 5-1 at Ms5…ultimately it may depend on Enho. If he wins the championship tomorrow he could be promoted from Ms11 and take a spot away. It’s too early to speculate about the bottom of Juryo with several at 5-7, 6-6 or 7-5 but Kazekeno is 3-9 and could be demoted if he loses out and Wakanosho is a co-leader and promoted. Tocjitaikai is also a toss-up as he seems to be done and would be equal to 3-12 at J7 if he is As for Kazuma, he is now 7-5 and one win from promotion and staying in Juryo as his strong comeback from an 0-3 start continues.

Lower tier notes: No match for Enho today as expected or any of the lower division co-leaders ahead of Championship Day tomorrow. All the lower tier champions may be crowned tomorrow but Jonidan may need a playoff and Jonokuchi may need a playoff between Isegahama stablemates.

UPDATE: BREAKING as of 5:30 PM PT/8:30 PM ET-Hakunofuji has WITHDRAWN per Nikkan Sports. More to come. If this is true, Onokatsu will get the fusen again as a result, his second straight, and move to one win from promotion at 7-6. Hakunofuji will be demoted as a result as he would be 5-8 after tomorrow.
UPDATE 2: Possible left leg injury per Hochi Sports, which may have occurred in his Day 11 loss to Aonishiki. His foot/ankle clearly turned in a bad way at the end.

UPDATE 3: Hakunofuji withdrawal is official. Toe. Tournament probably over. Status uncertain.

Here are the quick results from today’s Day 11 of the January 2026 Grand Sumo Tournament in Tokyo:
Key: M-Maegashira, K-Komusubi, S-Sekiwake, O-Ozeki, Y-Yokozuna, J-Juryo, Ms-Makushita

Makuuchi (top tier):
Tobizaru (M13) beat Hatsuyama (M17)
Abi (M12) beat Shishi (M14)
Midorifuji (M12) beat Ryuden (M15)
Oshoumi (M16) beat Nishikifuji (M11)
Asakoryu (M15) beat Chiyoshoma (M11)
Tokihayate (M10) beat Asahakuryu (M17)
Mitakeuni (M14) beat Gonoyama (M9)
Shodai (M8) beat Tomokaze (M13)
Roga (M9) beat Oshoma (M7)
Asanoyama (M16) beat Hiradoumi (M6)
Churanouni (M5) beat Kotoshoho (M10)
Kinbozan (M8) beat Tamawashi (M5)
Atamifuji (M2) beat Fujinokawa (M7)
Onokatsu (M6) beat Daieisho (M4)
Ichiyamamoto (M1) beat Wakatakakage (M2)
Walamotoharu (K) beat Ura (M2)
Yoshinofuji (M1) beat Oho (K)
Aonishiki (O) beat Hakunofuji (M3)
Takanosho (M3) beat Kotozakura (O)
Pnosato (Y) beat Kirishima (S)
Hoshoryu (Y) beat Takayasu (S)
Leader: Abi, Atamifuji, Aonishiki (9-2)
Of note: Onosato stopped his career-worst 3-match losing streak today to remain in contention at 7-4 while Hosboryu is one back at 8-3, but Takanosho surprised Kotozakura to drop the Ozeki to 7-4 and deny his protecting his rank today. 3 remain co-leaders with Atamifuji being the only one to not have won an Emperor’s Cup already (Abi did a few years ago and Aonishiki is going for two straight). If Atamifuji is going to win his first, he has to pass his biggest test tomorrow-Aonishiki. Abi faces Kotozakura. After Onosato beat him today, Hosboryu will try to pretty much eliminate Kirishima from contention while Onosato faces Takayasu with a winning record on the line for both.
And if you had the first katasukashi this tournament for Midorifuji coming today, you win! He beat Ryuden with his signature technique. And while Hatsuyama will be demoted back to Juryo, Oshoumi clinched his first top tier promotion today in his second try. Finally, what may be the last chance to climb back up the ladder for Asanoyama will continue as his latest top tier return will end with promotion as he joined the 8-3 crowd today.

Juryo:
Kazuma (J14) beat Tochimusashi (Ms1)
Tohakuryu (J10) beat Kyokukaiyu (J2)
Kayo (J9) beat Tsurugisho (J11)
Hitoshi (J9) beat Dewanoryu (J13)
Hidenouni (J13) beat Kitanowaka (J8)
Hakuyozan (J14) beat Kotokuzan (J6)
Shonannoumi (J4) beat Nishikigi (J12)
Walanosho (J11) beat Sadanoumi (J4)
Shirokuma (J3) beat Kazekeno (J10)
Fujiryoga (J3) beat Tamashoho (J5)
Kagayaki (J2) beat Meisei (J8)
Takerufuji (J5) beat Daiseizan (J2)
Fujiseiun (J1) beat Asasuiryu (J7)
Kotoeiho (J1) beat Nishinoryu (J6)
Leader: Fujiseiun, Sadanoumi, Walanosho (8-3)
Of note: After somehow being denied promotion to the top tier despite 8 wins at J1, Fujiseiun will get a second chance after clinching promotion today. With Hatsuyama being demoted that should open the spot for Fujiseiun. At the bottom, it’s been noted that with Tocjimusashi now being demoted and Tochitaikai demoted too and pribably done for the tournament, March could mark the first time in 60 years Kasugano Beya has no rikishi in the top 2 tiers. It’s been a long, slow fall since former Ozeki Tochinoshin retired and even before that. Himikamaru is the Makushita man up tomorrow, he is 3-3 at Ms2 so a win gives him a slim chance of following Kise stablemate Kazuma into Juryo in Matrch. As for Kazuma, beating Tochimusashi saw him improve to 6-5, an impressive turnaround from a surprise 0-3 start.

Lower tier notes: There’s real hope for Enho’s long-awaited Juryo promotion…he beat Tochimaru today and now will face Nobehara Friday for the Makushita Championship. If Engo wins, there is a chance he will be promoted back to Juryo from Ms11. Why is this such a big deal, you ask? Before demotion to the lower ranks due to injuries, Enho was probably one win short of what would have been 30 tournaments in the top 2 tiers-that means eligibility for elder stock and perhaps hope of someday restarting Miyagino Beya, which was forced to close when the former Hakuho was forced out of sumo and everything transferred to Isegahama Beya (the Miyagino elder stock is now held by the former Isegahama despite having to retire last year, at least for another 4 years or so). Enho has 29 such tournaments. If he loses Friday he’ll have to try again in March but probably from a top 5 Makushita ranking. The Sandanme final is also set and will be Hananofuji vs. Tatsubayana. The Jonidan has 3 at 6-0 so a playoff remains possible. The Jonokuchi has the two Isegahama men at 6-0 so they will not face each other yet-if both win their last match, there will be a playoff between them. If one wins and the other loses, the winner is the champion. If both lose, there will be a multi-man playoff. This does mean Isegahama has a chance to claim 4 of the 6 championships this time-all but Juryo & Jonidan. Not a bad way to send the former Terunofuji into retirement-his retirement ceremony & haircutting event will be held on 1/31.

In other news, it was also announced that Oyakata Kitajin-the former Endo-will have his retirement event & haircutting ceremony on 1/30/2027 at the Kokugikan. The former Hokutofuji (now Oyama) & Takarafuji (now Kiriyama) will have their retirement events in the coming months.

UPDATE: Nishikifuji has WITHDRAWN ahead of day 12. First out of the top tier this tournament. Herniated disc(s) and right elbow. Tournament over. Out at least 2 weeks. Will finish the equivalent of 6-9 but at M11 his top tier spot is safe so the unbroken Aomori representation run int he top tier will continue even with Takerufuji stuck in Juryo. Onokatsu will get the fusen as a result.

Here are the quick results from today’s Day 10 of the January 2026 Grand Sumo Tournament in Tokyo:
Key: M-Maegashira, K-Komusubi, S-Sekiwake, O-Ozeki, Y-Yokozuna, J-Juryo

Makuuchi (top tier):
Tobizaru (M13) beat Ryuden (M15)
Tomokaze (M13) beat Mitakeuni (M14)
Midorifuji (M12) beat Hatsuyama (M17)
Abi (M12) beat Oshoumi (M16)
Chiyoshoma (M11) beat Asahakuryu (M17)
Asakoryu (M15) beat Nishikifuji (M11)
Asanoyama (M16) beat Kinbozan (M8)
Oshoma (M7) beat Kotoshoho (M10)
Shishi (M14) beat Fujinokawa (M7)
Hiradouni (M6) beat Tokihayate (M10)
Onokatsu (M6) beat Roga (M9)
Tamawashi (M5) beat Shodai (M8)
Gonoyama (M9) beat Churanouni (M5)
Daieisho (M4) beat Ura (M2)
Wakatakakage (M2) beat Hakunofuji (M3)
Wakamotoharu (K) beat Ichiyamamoto (M1)
Takahasu (S) beat Yoshinofuji (M1)
Kotozakura (O) beat Kirishima (S)
Aonishiki (O) beat Takanosho (M3)
Hoshoryu (Y) beat Oho (K)
Atamifuji (M2) beat Onisato (Y). KINBOSHI!!! The second career-and consecutive-Gold Star Victory for Atamifuji!
Leader: Shishi, Abi, Atamifuji, Kirishima, Aonishiki (8-2)
Of note: This is bad uncharted territory for Onosato, the first 3-match or greater losing streak of his career. He is now 6-4 and fading fast. Clearly something with the left shoulder amidst ongoing withdrawal rumors. And that’s also two straight Kinboshi for Atamifuji, who also clinched promotion and may finally break through to Sanyaku in March. And hopefully he gets to keep today’s prize money, he may have “ceremonially” given it to stablemaster Isegahama (Terunofuji) after his first one yesterday. Hoshoryu bounced back today from his two straight losses and is still in it at 7-3, while Aonishiki secured a winning record in his Ozeki debut. Abi & Shishi also clinch promotions while staying in the lead after Kirishima took an uncommon loss to Kotozakura-he les their series 14-6 coming in. If Onosato can go tomorrow his opponent is Kirishima, Hoshoryu has Takayasu.

Juryo:
Nishikigi (J12) beat Kazuma (J14)
Hakuyozan (J14) beat Kazekeno (J10)
Wakanosho (J11) beat Tohakuryu (J10)
Kyokukaiyu (J12) beat Kayo (J9)
Dewanoryu (J13) beat Kitanowaka (J8)
Asasuiryu (J7) beat Hidenouni (J13)
Sadanoumi (J4) beat Hitoshi (J9)
Shonannoumi (J4) beat Tsurugisho (J11)
Meisei (J8) beat Fujiryoga (J3)
Shirokuma (J3) beat Tamashoho (J5)
Daiseizan (J2) beat Tochitaikai (J7) by default/withdrawal
Kagayaki (J2) beat Takerufuji (J5)
Kotoeiho (J1) beat Hakuyozan (J6)
Nishinoryu (J6) beat Fujiseiun (J1)
Leader: Sadanoumi (8-2)
WITHDRAWAL: Tochitaikai (J7). Right knee. Tournament possibly over. Will be a toss-up on demotion to Makushita with the equivalent of a 3-12 record but will be demoted regardless as he is now 3-7 so that 8th loss will come tomorrow. Daiseizan got the fusen as a result. Sadanoumi is now the sole leader and has clinched promotion but needs at least 2 more wins for a realistic chance at a tip tier return. Because of Tochitaikai’s withdrawal, Tochimusashi will be the first Makushita man up to Juryo tomorrow and will face Kazuma. Tochimusashi is 2-3 and must win out for a Juryo return from Ms1.

Lower tier notes: As expected, no match for Enho today as the Makushita final 4 get a day off before their next match. Tomorrow he will face Tochimaru with the winner going for the championship on Friday so if Enho wins both, he still has a chance at a Juryo return in March. That of course means Fukai-Nobehara is the other match to decide who will be the other half of the championship. With their 5th day finished, the Jonidan now has 6 left at 5-0 so a playoff will be very possible.

Here are the quick results from today’s Day 9 of the January 2026 Grand Sumo Tournament in Tokyo:
Key: M-Maegashira, K-Komusubi, S-Sekiwake, O-Ozeki, Y-Yokozuna, J-Juryo

Makuuchi (top tier):
Oshoumi (M16) beat Asakoryu (M15)
Shishi (M14) beat Ryuden (M15)
Hatsuyama (M17) beat Tomokaze (M13)
Asanoyama (M16) beat Tobizaru (M13)
Nishikifuji (M11) beat Asahakuryu (M17)
Mitakeumi (M14) beat Chiyoshoma (M11)
Kotoshoho (M10) beat Abi (M12)
Tokihayate (M10) beat Midorifuji (M12)
Fujinokawa (M7) beat Roga (M9)
Gonoyama (M9) beat Onokatsu (M6)
Hiradoumi (M6) beat Kinbozan (M8)
Churanoumi (M5) beat Shodai (M8)
Tamawashi (M5) beat Oshoma (M7)
Daieisho (M4) beat Hakunofuji (M3)
Yoshinofuji (M1) beat Takanosho (M3)
Oho (K) beat Ichiyamamoto (M1)
Kirishima (S) beat Ura (M2)
Aonishiki (O) beat Wakatakakage (M2)
Kotozakura (O) beat Takayasu (S)
Wakamotoharu (K) beat Onosato (Y). KINBOSHI!!! The 3rd career Gold Star Victory for Wakamotoharu!
Atamifuji (M4) beat Hoshoryu (Y). KINBOSHI!!! The first career Gold Star Victory for Atamifuji!
Leader: Kirishima (8-1)
Of note: Hakkaku must be en fuego. That’s two straight days of two Kinboshi conceded by both Yokozuna. Hard to believe this is the first for Atamifuji but there are two simple reasons for that-inconsistency at the top rankings when he’s there and being an Isegahama man, which until a year ago meant no Kinboshi chances due to not being able to face then-sole-Yokozuna Terunofuji in a tournament unless it was in a playoff. Both Yokozuna are now 6-3 after consecutive losses while only Kirishima has clinched promotion, or in his case maintaining Sekiwake. 5 are at 7-2 including Aonishiki, who is one win away from a winning record in his Ozeki debut. And while it may be too little too late to save his spot, congrats to Hatsuyama on FINALLY getting his first top tier win after losing his first 8. Atamifuji gets another kinboshi chance tomorrow against Onosato while Hoshoryu is done with those, at least for one day, as his opponent tomorrow is Oho. Aonishiki should be able to clinch his winning record against 1-8 Takanosho, while Kirishima tries to maintain the sole leader spot against Kotozakura.
If you’re wondering if Kirishima can be promoted back to Ozeki with a championship here, almost certainly no. He was demoted to M2 last time after 4 straight Sanyaku tournaments so he’d probably need another championship next time.

Juryo:
Dewanoryu (J13) beat Kyokukaiyu (J12)
Hakuyozan (J14) beat Nishikigi (J12)
Tsurugisho (J11) beat Tohakuryu (J10)
Kazekeno (J10) beat Hidenoumi (J13)
Kazuma (J14) beat Kayo (J9)
Hitoshi (J9) beat Wakanosho (J11)
Meisei (J8) beat Shonannoumi (J4)
Sadanoumi (J4) beat Kitanowaka (J8)
Asasuiryu (J7) beat Shirokuma (J3)
Fujiryoga (J3) beat Tochitaikai (J7)
Nishinoryu (J6) beat Kagayaki (J2)
Tamashoho (J5) beat Daiseizan (J2)
Fujiseiun (J1) beat Kotokuzan (J6)
Takerufuji (J6) beat Kotoeiho (J1)
Leader: Fujiseiun, Sadanoumi (7-2)
Of note: It’s very wide open as only 2 wrestlers-Shonannoumi & Kotokuzan-are worse than 3-6, both are 2-7. 5 are at 6-3 and, much like Takasago last time, there is a chance of a stable sending 2 up to the top tier or having a playoff for the championship with Fujiseiun at 7-2 and stablemate Fujiryoga at 6-3. And Kazuma is not out of it yet-his 0-3 opening struggle seems to be behind him as he now has a winning record so far, up to 5-4 after today’s win.

Lower tier notes: Enho is part of the final 4 in Makushita, winning his match today to go to 5-0 and remain one of the 4 unbeaten wrestlers left. If he can finish 7-0 with the championship a promotion back to Juryo is possible. No match tomorrow as he prepares for an eliminator that could be againstfellow former Juryo man Tochimaru, who fell all the way down to Jonidan after injuries but has fought his way back up to have a chance at re-promotion (and is popular among fans for perhaps being the fastest pusher-thruster in sumo, his pushes are like rapid fire). The other possibilities are Fukai or Nobehara. The Sandanme is also down to their final 4 at 5-0. The Jonidan currently has 5 at 5-0 with 2 at 4-0 so a playoff will be a real possibility. The Jonokuchi has two at 5-0 but both are Isegahama men including super-prospect Asahifuji, so they won’t face off unless it’s a playoff for the championship.

UPDATE: Hochi Sports reports that dubious distinction of two Yokozuna losing consecutive matches hasn’t happened in 28 years. And unfortunately another streak ends tomorrow-perfect participation in the top 2 tiers. Tochitaikai has WITHDRAWN from Juryo. Right knee. Might be done. He is 3-6 after today so the question is whether 3-12 at J7 is enough to avoid demotion to Makushita.