Tag: sumo

As expected, the Japan Sumo Association has just announced that, following an extraordinary meeting today (1/31 Japan time), Kotonowaka has been promoted to Ozeki following a 13-2 January tournament that saw the Sekiwake lose in a playoff for the championship to Yokozuna Terunofuji but win the Technique Prize. Kotonowaka had 33 wins in his last 3 tournaments, considered an unofficial benchmark for promotion consideration. He is expected to also change his shikona, or ring name, to Kotozakura, the ring name of his Yokozuna grandfather. This will make 4 Ozeki, the second highest tanking in sumo, for the March tournament in Osaka.

UPDATE: In other news, some other promotions were also confirmed. There will be no Shin-Juryo rikishi in March 2024 but 4 will be Sai-Juryo and return to the second tier (and get their salary back): Former Sekiwake and newly crowned Makushita Champion Wakatakakage (as expected), Tsushimanada, Kitaharima and Hakuoho. Kiraharima was last in Juryo in September 2020, and the 37-year-old undoubtedly hopes to get one more chance in the top tier before his career is over. He made it in July 2016, coming in at Maegashira 15 for one tournament but demoted after going 6-9/ Tsushimanada returns to Juryo for the first time since July (his highest career rank is J9), while Hakuoko is back up after one tournament demoted from Juryo after missing 2 tournaments due to injury following an 11-4 top tier debut in July. Expect him back in Makuuchi in no time, probably in July if all goes well.

Here are the quick results from today’s Day 15-the Final Day-of the January 2024 Grand Sumo Tournament in Tokyo (top tier only because Juryo was decided yesterday):
Key: M-Maegashira, K-Komusubi, S-Sekiwake, O-Ozeki, Y-Yokozuna, J-Juryo, Ms-Makushita, Sd-Sandanme, Jd-Jonidan, Jk-Jonokuchi

Makuuchi (top tier):
Takarafuji (M16) beat Kotoshoho (M14)
Oho (M11) beat Tomokaze (M15)
Tsurugisho (M11) beat BUshozan (M16)
Onosho (M14) beat Sadanoumi (M10)
Onosato (M15) beat Tamawashi (M10)
Meisei (M9) beat Shimazuumi (M17)
Mitakeumi (M9) beat Endo (M13)
Myogiryu (M12) beat Ichiyamamoto (M7)
Churanoumi (M13) beat Shodai (M4)
Takanosho (M12) beat Gonoyama (M3)
Hiradoumi (M8) beat Abi (M2)
Kinbozan (M6) beat Midorifuji (M2)
Shonannoumi (M6) beat Atamifuji (M1)
Wakamotoharu (M1) beat Nishikigi (M5)
Ura (K) beat Ryuden (M5)
Daieisho (S) beat Asanoyama (M7)
Kotonowaka (S) beat Tobizaru (M4)
Terunofuji (Y) beat Kirishima (O). PLAYOFF!!!
Playoff: Terunofuji beat Kotonowaka. TERUNOFUJI YUSHO!!!
CHAMPION: Terunofuji (Y). 9th career Emperor’s Cup
SPECIAL PRIZES:
Outstanding Performance (winning record with most wins against Yokozuna & Ozeki by a Sekiwake or lower rank): Wakamotoharu
Fighting Spirit (lower ranked wrestler with winning record judged to have shown best fighting spirit): Onosato (Shimazuumi missed out on this due to his loss)
Technique (Sekiwake or lower with winning record judged to have shown best technique or most different techniques used): Kotonowaka
Of note: RARE KIMARITE ALERT! Once again Ura showed off his impressive wrestler background and wowed the fans with an incredible rare technique in victory-tsutaezori, an under arm forward body drop. Elsewhere, at the top this continues quite the trend for Terunofuji since promotion to Yokozuna-he either wins the championship or doesn’t finish the tournament. He undoubtedly was helped by the Hoshoryu withdrawal yesterday (Day 14). Had the Ozeki not pulled out, Kotonowaka would have faced him and not Tobizaru today. Terunofuji beat Kotonowaka a couple days ago and has never lost in their series to date.
Yokozuna Watch: Not going to happen this time for Kirishima. He lost his last 2 and losing to Terunofuji sealed the deal. He has never beaten Terunofuji, now 0-11 career, and will have to try again in March, his last chance before his stabemaster, the current Michinoku, must retire in April (Michinoku will turn 65, the mandatory retirement age in sumo).
Ozeki Watch: Despite the playoff loss, it sounds like Kotonowaka is going to be promoted. An extraordinary meeting will be held in the next couple days so in 2-3 days he may be promoted and will then change his shikona, or ring name, to that of his grandfather, former Yokozuna Kotozakura. Looking ahead to March, Daieisho as usual will have a chance at promotion as he maintained his Sekiwake rank, but he’s going to have to win the championship unless he goes 15-0 and somehow winds up in a playoff. And the numbers game will work against him with potentially 4 Ozeki ahead of him although Takakeisho will be in kadoban status in March due to having to withdraw early this time (injury). With both Komusubi demoted and the pending promotion of Kotonowaka, Wakamotoharu could return to Sekiwake after one tournament.

Jonidan:
Playoff: Aonishiki (Jd10) beat Chiyotaiko (Jd74). AONISHIKI JONIDAN YUSHO!!! 2nd career championship, first Jonidan, in 2 tournaments for the rookie from Ukraine.

TOURNAMENT CHAMPIONS:
Makuuchi: Terunofuji (Y). 9th Emperor’s Cup
Juryo: Takerufuji (J10). 3rd career, 1st Juryo
Makushita: Wakatakakage (Ms1). 4th career, 2nd Makushita
Sandanme: Fujiseiun.(Sd26). 3rd career, 2nd Sandanme
Jonidan: Aonishiki (Jd10). 2nd career, 1st Jonidan
Jonokuchi: Anhibiki (Jk15). 1st career in debut tournament
That’s 2 championships this time for both Isegahama and Ajigawa Beya.

The next tournament is March 10-24 at Osaka Prefectural Gym in Osaka. Advance tickets will go on sale on 2/10. The Banzuke will be announced on 2/28. The final wrap-up post will come later this week after we get official word on Kotonowaka potentially being promoted.

Here are the quick results from today’s Day 14-the penultimate day-of the January 2024 Grand Sumo Tournament in Tokyo:
Key: M-Maegashira, K-Komusubi, S-Sekiwake, O-Ozeki, Y-Yokozuna, J-Juryo, Ms-Makushita

Makuuchi (top tier):
Endo (M13) beat Roga (J3)
Takanosho (M12) beat Bushozan (M16)
Tsurugisho (M11) beat Shimazuumi (M17)
Oho (M11) beat Takarafuji (M16)
Onosato (M15) beat Sadanoumi (M10)
Kotoshoho (M14) beat Mitakeumi (M9)
Onosho (M14) beat Meisei (M9)
Tomokaze (M14) beat Ichiyamamoto (M7)
Churanoumi (M13) beat Shonannoumi (M6)
Nishikigi (M5) beat Tamawashi (M10)
Hiradoumi (M8) beat Tobizaru (M4)
Gonoyama (M3) beat Myogiryu (M12)
Midorifuji (M2) beat Ryuden (M5)
Abi (M2) beat Wakamotoharu (M1)
Asanoyama (M7) beat Atamifuji (M1)
Ura (K) beat Shodai (M4)
Daieisho (S) beat Kinbozan (M6)
Kotonowaka (S) beat Kirishima (O)
Terunofuji (Y) beat Hoshoryu (O) by default/withdrawal
Leader: Terunofuji, Kotonowaka (12-2)
WITHDRAWAL: Hoshoryu (O). Ankle. Likely out for the final day. Will finish the equivalent of 10-5 it that is the case so he will maintain his Ozeki status but it cost him a chance at the championship.
Of note: There’s still a playoff chance but either we’ll have a repeat winner or a first-timer. Terunofuji may have been gifted another Emperor’s Cup today because of the Hoshoryu withdrawal but he still has to beat Kirishima tomorrow. Kotonowaka has easier for his potential first championship but not that easy-Tobizaru. The Flying Monkey is going for promotion and, along with Ura, is one of the most unpredictable rikishi in the top tier. If Kotonowaka does win, he either wins his first championship or will have a playoff rematch against Terunofuji. If Kotonowaka loses, Terunofuji is the champion if he beats Kisishima, but if Kirishima wins there would be a 3-way playoff. Elsewhere, that’s 7 straight wins for Abi, who has gone from a 1-6 start to promotion. Onosato has stopped his 4-match losing streak since an 8-1 start with 2 straight wins now, and with 10 wins he’s going to have a chance to win one of the Special Prizes.
Finally, I think we can say with confidence that it’s over for Takaraduji. 5-9 at M16 is going to send him to Juryo for the first time since 2012. If he wins his finale (Kotoshoho, who is now 9-5) it would take Isegahama really flexing his clout to keep his veteran in the top tier, and he’s had that kind of influence in the rankings lately. Maybe too much. A loss and demotion is definite.
Yokozuna Watch: Kotonowaka all but slammed the door shut on Kirishima but there still is hope. If Kirishima beats Terunofuji and Kotonowaka loses to Tobizaru, there will be a 3-way playoff for the championship. That gives Kirishima a good chance, he’ll almost definitely be promoted if he wins while a playoff loss still gives him hope because 12 wins would be equal to the championship. If he finishes 2nd with 12 wins to 13 for Kotonowaka, there’s still a possibility because when Terunofuji was promoted, he was runner-up with 14 wins after a final day loss to Hakuho for the legend’s final championship before retirement after a perfect 15-0 finale.
Ozeki Watch: Promotion is now Kotonowaka’s to lose. If he wins tomorrow, that’s 33 wins and potentially his first championship so it would be pretty much definite. If he is the champion, promotion will happen. If he loses, that’s 32 wins but it’s not mandatory to hit 33 wins so he will have a chance. If no promotion this time, he’s looking at a magic number of 10 wins in March.

Juryo:
Kitaharima (Ms2) beat Akua (J11)
Takerufuji (J10) beat Chiyosakae (J14). TAKERUFUJI JURYO YUSHO!!! The latest Isegahama super-prospect wins his first Juryo Championship and 3rd career championship. In 8 tournaments he has a career mark of 55-8. Depending on his final day result, he’ll probably go up to J1 or J2, with an outside chance of reaching the top tier.
Shimanoumi (J8) beat Tochimusashi (J14)
Yuma (J13) beat Shiden (J8)
Hidenoumi (J11) beat Kagayaki (J7)
Shitokuma (J6) beat Tenshoho (J12)
Oshoumi (J13) beat Chiyoshoma (J5)
Daishoho (J9) beat Tamashoho (J4)
Kotoeko (J4) beat Chiyomaru (J12)
Kitanowaka (J3) beat Hakuyozan (J10)
Oshoma (J5) beat Nishikifuji (J2)
Tokihayate (J6) beat Tohakuryu (J2)
Asakoryu (J7) beat Daiamami (J1)
Shishi (J7) beat Miroryu (J1)
CHAMPION: Takerufuji (12-2)
Of note: The deal was sealed early. Although both Kitanowaka & Tokihayate win, Takerufuji closed the door and maintained his 2-win lead to end the championship race. At 13-2 or 12-3 when it ends he’s going to have at least a chance at reaching the top tier depending on what happens elsewhere. With Daiamami & Mitoryu both at 7-7 and having to win for promotion tomorrow, Takerufuji probably needs both to lose to reach Makuuchi. If one of both win, I’ll slot him at J1 in March. At the bottom, I think we’re now looking at a minimum of 4 demotions to Makushita-Yuma, Tochimusashi (again), Chiyosakae all for sure and one or both of Tenshoho & Chiyomaru. Kotoeko is in danger but at the equivalent of 3-11 at J4 (missed 3 days due to flu) I think he’s managed enough wins to hang on to salary for March, If he gets a 4th win tomorrow, he’s safe.
As far as Makushita, right now we’re looking at one definite promotion-Wakatakakage, the former Sekiwake who at Ms1 won the championship at 7-0 and will get his salary back, and 2 probable promotions-Kitaharima clinched promotion today at Ms2 and the numbers game is working in his favor, and Hakuoho, who went 6-1 at Ms5 in his return from shoulder surgery and has the rocket fully fired up for a quick return to the top tier, possibly by July. Tsushimanada, who is 4-2 at Ms2 with promotion already clinched, will also have a chance at a Juryo return, and if he wins it should be definite.

Reminder: NHK World Japan will have 90 minutes of LIVE top tier coverage, including the championship matches, playoffs if necessary, Emperor’s Cup award ceremony and champion’s interview, beginning tonight at 11:30 PM PT/2:30 AM ET.

Here are the quick results from today’s Day 13 (Lower Tier Championship Day) of the January 2024 Grand Sumo Tournament in Tokyo:
Key: M-Margashira, K-Komusubi, S-Sekiwake, O-Ozeki, Y-Yokozuna, J-Juryo, Ms-Makushita, Sd-Sandanme, Jd-Jonidan, Jk-Jobokuchi

Makuuchi (Top tier):
Tohakuryu (H2) beat Takarafuji (M16)
Onosato (M15) beat Takanosho (M12)
Sadanoumi (M10) beat Tomokaze (M15)
Tamawashi (M10) beat Churanoumi (M13)
Meisei (M9) beat Kotoshoho (M14)
Shimazuumi (M17) beat Mitakeumi (M9)
Oho (M11) beat Hiradoumi (M8)
Shonannoumi (M6) beat Bushozan (M16)
Endo (M13) beat Ryuden (M10)
Tsurugisho (M11) beat Shodai (M4)
Asanoyama (M7) beat Gonoyama (M3)
Abi (M2) beat Ichiyamamoto (M7)
Midorifuji (M2) beat Myogiryu (M12)
Atamifuji (M1) beat Kinbozan (M6)
Wakamotoharu (M1) beat Onosho (M14)
Ura (K) beat Tobizaru (M4)
Nishikigi (M5) beat Daieisho (S)
Kirishima (O) beat Hoshoryu (O)
Terunofuji (Y) beat Kotonowaka (S)
Leader: Terunofuji, Kotonowaka, Kirishima (11-2)
Of note: RARE KIMARITE ALERT!!! Kirishima beat Hosboryu with a very rare technique called nimaigeri, or ankle kicking twist down. Along the lines of other things that haven’t happened in a long time, the end of a long top-tier tenure, and maybe a career, is potentially near for Takarafuji. He hasn’t been demoted from the top tier in over 12 years but at 5-8 now at M16, that streak is all but over. Another loss and he will definitely be demoted to Juryo for the first time since 2012. Tomokaze will also be demoted along with Aoiyama (absent for the most part) and possibly Endo if he loses out to finish 4-11 at M13. I also would not be surprised if Kinbozan decides to withdraw instead of trying to salvage promotion on his injured right knee, he is 6-7 and clearly affected by the injury..
Yokozuna Watch: Kirishima got the opening he needed with Terunofuji winning. Now if he can beat Kotonowaka tomorrow he can all but clinch promotion. If he wins his last 2 matches he should also get it because that would mean either a second straight championship or, at worst, a playoff.
Ozeki Watch: Kotonowaka still has a chance. He probably needs to win his last 2 matches to guarantee it or, at a minimum, beat Kirishima tomorrow. If he is not promoted this time, he’s looking at probably needing 10-11 wins in March for another chance.

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. The network is available online and on mobile/tablet/smart TV apps and is free to download/watch with no restrictions and no payments/accounts needed

Juryo:
Hakuoho (Ms5) beat Chiyomaru (J12)
Takerufuji (J10) beat Tenshoho (J12)
Hidenoumi (J11) beat Daishoho (J9)
Oshoumi (J13) beat Asakoryu (J9)
Hakuyozan (J10) beat Shiden (J8)
Shishi (J7) beat Akua (J8)
Chiyoshoma (J5) beat Tochimusashi (J14)
Chiyosakae (J14) beat Kotoeko (J4)
Tamashoho (J4) beat Yuma (J13)
Kitanowaka (J3) beat Tokihayate (J6)
Oshoma (J5) beat Roga (J3)
Nishikifuji (J2) beat Shirokuma (J6)
Kagayaki (J7) beat Mitoryu (J1)
Daiamami (J1) beat Shimanoumi (J8)
Leader: Takerufuji (11-2)
Of note: And just like that Takerufuji is back on the cusp of the championship. If he beats Chiyosakae tomorrow, which would demote Chiyosakae to Makushita. Takerufuji is the champion. If not, it will have to wait until the Final Day because the Hakuyozan-Kitanowaka winner would be 10-4 and can still force a playoff. There is a chance of a 3-way or 4-way playoff too depending on results and final day matches.
Hakuoho was the Makushita man of the day in Juryo and will finish 6-1 with today’s win. That should be enough to see him return to Juryo from Ms5 but it also will depend on the numbers game-working in his favor is that Wakatakakage is likely the only other promotion coming from Makushita (from Ms1) and there will be at least 2 demotions from Juryo (Tochimusashi & Yuma, there could be as many as 4 more depending on the last 2 days’ outcomes).

Makushita:
Wakatakakage (Ms1) beat Haruyama (Ms41). WAKATAKAKAGE MAKUSHITA YUSHO!!! The former Sekiwake wins his 4th career championship, 2nd Makushita, and will be promoted back to Juryo in March.

Sandanme:
Fujiseiun (Sd26) beat Takashoki (Sd44). FUJISEIUN SANDANME YUSHO!!! The former Juryo man wins his 3rd career championship, 2nd Sandanme, and will be promoted back to Makushita in March. (He was last in Juryo on July when he was absent for the first of 3 straight tournaments)

Jonidan:
Chiyotaiko (Jd74) beat Hokuomaru (Jd58)
Aonishiki (Jd10) beat Mogamizakura (Jd16). PLAYOFF!!! With Chiyotaiko winning earlier, that means the Aonishiki-Mogamizakura match was to determine who would be the second half of a playoff for the championship. That match should happen on the Final Day and will be Chiyotaiko vs. Aonishiki, both 7-0.

Jonokuchi:
Anhibiki (Jk15) beat Asashorei (Jd92). ANHIBIKI JOBOKUCHI YUSHO!!! He wins his debut tournament for his first career championship. This match was in the Jonidan.

UPDATE: Hoshoryu has WITHDRAWN. Knee. Terunofuji gets a free win tomorrow and will remain at least a co-leader going into the Final Day. Status for Final Day uncertain but it unfortunately takes Hoshoryu out of the championship race. He does have 10 wins already so his Ozeki ranking is safe going into March.

Here are the quick results from today’s Day 12 of the January 2024 Grand Sumo Tournament in Tokyo:
Key: M-Maegashira, K-Kokusubi, S-Sekiwake, O-Ozeki, Y-Yokozuna, J-Juryo

Makiuchi (top tier):
Shimazuumi (M17) beat Churanoumi (M13)
Oho (M11) beat Bushozan (M16)
Sadanoumi (M10) beat Takarafuji (M16)
Tomokaze (M15) beat Mitakeumi (M9)
Myogiryu (M12) beat Meisei (M9)
Hiradoumi (M8) beat Endo (M13)
Tsurugisho (M11) beat Kinbozan (M6)
Tobizaru (M4) beat Ichiyamamoto (M7)
Shonannoumi (M6) beat Shodai (M4)
Abi (M2) beat Midorifuji (M2)
Kotoshoho (M14) beat Wakamotoharu (M1)
Nishikigi (M5) beat Atamifuji (M1)
Ura (K) beat Gonoyama (M3)
Kotonowaka (S) beat Onosho (M14)
Daieisho (S) beat Ryuden (M5)
Hoshoryu (O) beat Takanosho (M12)
Kirishima (O) beat Tamawashi (M10)
Terubofuji (Y) beat Onosato (M15)

Leader: Kotonowaka (11-1)
RE-ENTRY: Asanoyama (M7). Will return tomorrow. Missed 4 days after Day 9 withdrawal (ankle). It cost him a chance at the championship as he was 7-1 at the time but he can still earn promotion with at least one more win (he will be the equivalent of 7-5). At worst, I think 7-8 (7-5-3 officially) would keep him at M7 in March.
Yokozuna Watch: Kirishima keeps winning and staying close but it will probably depend on tomorrow when Terunofuji faces Kotonowaka. Kirishima needs Terunofuji to win and he also has to beat Hoshoryu. Not out of it if Kotonowaka wins but it will be a much tougher task although if Kitishima can force a playoff and finish 13-2 that may be enough, even if he loses. If Hoshoryu wins out and takes the championship, he’ll be on the radar for May although the Yokozuna Deliberation Council isn’t exactly smitten with him (he is the nephew of former Yokozuna Asashoryu, who was not exactly a model Yokozuna behavior-wise). (Kirishima leads Hoshoryu 3-2 over the past year but one win was a fusen when Hosboryu was a withdrawal).
Ozeki Watch: It won’t put him at the unofficial 33 wins but if Kotonowaka beats Tetunofuji tomorrow, I believe that’s promotion. 2 of 3 more wins or all 3 should do it for sure. Terunofuji won their last meeting in May 2023.

Juryo:
Oshoumi (J13) beat Daishoho (J9)
Shiden (J8) beat Chiyosakae (J14)
Takerufuji (J10) beat Kagayaki (J7)
Shishi (J7) beat Tenshoho (J12)
Akua (J11) beat Chiyoshoma (J5)
Hidenoumi (J11) beat Oshoma (J5)
Tochimusashi (J14) beat Tamashoho (J4)
Kotoeko (J4) beat Yuma (J13)
Hakuyozan (J10) beat Roga (J3)
Asakoryu (J9) beat Kitanowaka (J3)
Nishikifuji (J2) beat Chiyomaru (J12)
Tohakuryu (J2) beat Shimanoumi (J8)
Daiamami (J1) beat Shirokuma (J6)
Motoryu (J1) beat Tokihayate (J6)
Leader: Takerufuji (10-2)

Here are the quick results from today’s Day 11 of the January 2024 Grand Sumo Tournament in Tokyo:
Key: M-Maegashira, K-Komusubi, S-Sekiwake, O-Ozeki, Y-Yokozuna, J-Juryo, Ma-Makushita

Makiuchi (top tier):
Takanosho (M12) beat Kotoshoho (M14)
Tsurugisho (M11) beat Churanoumi (M13)
Shimazuumi (M17) beat Sadanoumi (M10)
Meisei (M9) beat Endo (M13)
Hiradoumi (M8) beat Bushozan (M16)
Ichiyamamoto (M7) beat Takarafuji (M16)
Tomokaze (M15) beat Shonannoumi (M6)
Kinbozan (M6) beat Myogiryu (M12)
Mitakeumi (M9) beat Nishikigi (M5)
Gonoyama (M3) beat Ryuden (M5)
Tobizaru (M4) beat Midorifuji (M2)
Atamifuji (M1) beat Shodai (M4)
Wakamotoharu (M1) beat Tamawashi (M10)
Abi (M2) beat Ura (K)
Kotonowaka (S) beat Oho (M11)
Kirishima (O) beat Daieisho (S)
Hoshoryu (O) beat Onosato (M15)
Terunofuji (Y) beat Onosho (M14)
Leader: Kotonowaka (10-1)
Of note: It’s likely down to Sanyaku for the championship with a Sekiwake leading then the Yokiozuna & 2 Ozeki one back. Onosho & Onosato are now both in a group 2 back after losses today, which includes Wakamotoharu after he clinched promotion and a return to Sanyaku in March. Also, Asanoyama has now missed enough time with injury that despite starting 7-1 he is now out of title contention even if he returns. Tomorrow might be the last kinboxhi chance this time for anyone when Terunofuji faces Onosato, as I expect all of Sanyaku to face each other based on the standings as we go into the final 3 days. As for Hoshoryu, who is also right there at 9-2, he has Takanosho tomorrow.
Yokozuna Watch: Kirishima hasn’t faced any Sanyaku yet except Daieisho so that’s probably coming after tomorrow. That will decide potential promotion but he still is very much in it. He has Tamawashi tomorrow.
Ozeki Watch: Kotonowaka continues to control his fate but he’s getting closer, now just needing to hold on for his first championship or get 3 more wins. Next up is Onosho.

Juryo:
Tenshoho (J12) beat Chiyonoumi (Ms4)
Daishoho (J9) beat Tochimusashi (J14)
Chiyosakae (J14) beat Asakoryu (J9)
Oshoumi (J13) beat Shiden (J7)
Shimanoumi (J8) beat Yuma (J13)
Chiyomaru (J12) beat Shishi (J7)
Oshoma (J5) beat Akua (J11)
Hakuyozan (J10) beat Tamashoho (J4)
Kitanowaka (J3) beat Takerufuji (J10)
Roga (J3) beat Chiyoshoma (J5)
Togakuryu (J2) beat Hidenoumi (J11)
Kagayaki (J7) beat Nishikifuji (J2)
Mitoryu (J1) beat Shirokuma (J6)
Tokihayate (J6) beat Daiamami (J1)
Leader: Roga, Tokihayate, Takerufuji (9-2)
RE-ENTRY: Kotoeko (J4). Will return tomorrow. Missed the last 3 days after withdrawal on Day 9 (flu). Any wins he can get now should prevent potential demotion to Makushita as he is the equivalent of 1-10.
Of note: Out of gas? That’s 2 straight losses and lead lost for Takerufuji after a 9-0 start in his Juryo debut, and it’s now a 3-way tie for the lead. With his 9th win, Roga will probably return to the top tier in March for a second chance after demotion in his first try (if he wins at least one more match he will definitely go back up). On the flip side, Tochimusashi will be demoted back to Makushita after an 8th loss today along with Yuma. He won’t avoid the 3:10 to demotion this time unless he wins out to get to 7-8.

Lower tier notes: It will be Wakatakakage vs. Haruyama for the Makushita Championship with both emerging from today at 6-0. Haruyama beat Tanji (a Sandanme man) then Wakatakakge beat Dewanoryu. Wakatakakage will be going for his 4th championship and second in Makushita before he returns to Juryo in March while Haruyama will be going for his second championship. At 5-1 at Ms5, Hakuoho will also have a chance to return to Juryo in March (a 6th win should make it certain). In the Sandanme, it will be Fujiseiun vs. Takashoki for the championship, with Fujiseiun going for his 3rd championship (second in Sandanme) and Takashoki going for his first career title. The Jonidan may need a playoff as 3 remain tied at 6-0, while in the Jonokuchi Anhibiki (6-0) will be the champion is he wins his final match.

Here are the quick results from today’s Day 10 of the January 2024 Grand Sumo Tournament in Tokyo:
Key: M-Maegashira, K-Komusubi, S-Sekiwake, O-Ozeki, Y-Yokozuna, J-Juryo, Ma-Makushita

Makiuchi (top tier):
Shimazuumi (M17) beat Myogiryu (M12)
Kotoshoho (M13) beat Tsurugisho (M11)
Sadanoumi (M10) beat Bushozan (M16)
Takarafuji (M16) beat Mitakeumi (M9)
Tomokaze (M15) beat Hiradoumi (M8)
Ichiyamamoto (M7) beat Churanoumi (M13)
Endo (M13) beat Shonannoumi (M6)
Meisei (M9) beat Nishikigi (M5)
Takanosho (M12) beat Tobizaru (M4)
Gonoayama (M3) beat Shodai (M4)
Abi (M2) beat Ryuden (M5)
Wakamotoharu (M1) beat Oho (M11)
Tamawashi (M10) beat Atamifuji (M1)
Midorifuji (M2) beat Ura (K)
Kotonowaka (S) beat Onosato (M15)
Hoshoryu (O) beat Daieisho (S)
Kirishima (O) beat Onosho (M14)
Terunofuji (Y) beat Kinbozan (M6)
Leader: Kotonowaka (9-1)
Of note: The battle for sole leadership was a no-contest as Kotoshoho easily dispatched rookie Onosato, but it’s far from over. Onosato remains in a group of 5 that are one win back at 8-2, including Onosho who took a tough loss to Kirishima. And Terunofuji is lurking in that group too eith a winning record secured. Elsewhere, the Sanyaku shakeup is set as Ura will be demoted, meaning no Komusubi holdovers in March. Wakamotoharu is now one win away from returning to Sanyaku after being demoted from Sekiwake this time.
Yokozuna Watch: It wasn’t his best showing but that win keeps Kirishima’s hopes alive as he is in the 8-2 group, and more importantly he has protected his Ozeki rank as has Hoshoryu. But on the flip side, now that he has missed a week with onjury…Takakeisho kadoban…
Ozeki Watch: It’s almost Kotonowaka’s promotion to lose now. He’s not there yet but continues to lead the standigs and looks strong. Probably needs 4 more wins to clinch if he doesn’t get the championship.
Key matches tomorrow: Onosato-Hoshoryu, Terunofuji-Onosho. The losers are all but out of the championship race. Kotonowaka has Oho (who tends to fade in the second week) while Kirishima faces Daieisho. Among those matches, all but Kirishima-Daieisho are first ever meetings. Over the last year, Kirishima is 4-2 against Daieisho.

Juryo:
Yuma (J13) beat Kitaharima (Ms2)
Hidenoumi (J11) beat Tenshoho (J12)
Hakuyozan (J10) beat Chiyomaru (J12)
Asakoryu (J9) beat Tochimusashi (J14)
Daishoho (J9) beat Chiyosakae (J14)
Oshoumi (J13) beat Shimanoumi (J8)
Shiden (J8) beat Akua (J11)
Shishi (J7) beat Tamashoho (J4)
Roga (J3) beat Takerufuji (J10)
Kitanowaka (J3) beat Kagayaki (J7)
Tokihayate (J6) beat Nishikifuji (J2)
Shirokuma (J6) beat Tohakuryu (J2)
Oshoma (J5) beat Daiamami (J1)
Chiyoshoma (J5) beat Mitoryu (J1)
Leader: Takerufuji (9-1)
Of note: No perfect run for Takerufuji, loss 1 came today so his lead is down to 1. Tokihayate & Roga clinched promotions today, with the Russian at J3 now having a chance to return to the top tier with one more win (ideally at least 2 more). Amazongly, aside from Kotoeko there are still no other demotions yet. That will almost certainly change tomorrow though.

Lower tier notes: With 3 left at 5-0, half of the potential Makushita Championship will be determined tomorrow as Wakatakakage faces Dewanoryu. The other unbeaten, Haruyama, faces Tanji first (a Sandanme man who is also 5-0). If Haruyama loses, the Wakatakakage-Dewanoryu winner only has to win their final match to be champion. If Haruyama wins, the latter sets up the championship match on Day 13. The Sandanme has 6 at 5-0 so a playoff may be needed depending on what happens tomorrow. There are also 6 left in the Jonidan at 5-0, while Anhibiki only needs to win out to claim the Jonokuchi championship as the only 5-0 left.

Here are the quick results from today’s Day 9 of the January 2024 Grand Sumo Tournament in Tokyo:
Key: M-Maegashira, K-Komusubi, S-Sekiwake, O-Ozeki, Y-Yokozuna, J-Juryo

Makuuchi (top tier):
Endo (M13) beat Tomokaze (M15)
Myogiryu (M12) beat Bushozan (M16)
Takanosho (M12) beat Takarafuji (M16)
Shimazuumi (M17) beat Oho (M11)
Kotoshoho (M14) beat Sadanoumi (M10)
Onosato (M15) beat Meisei (M9)
Churanoumi (M13) beat Mitakeumi (M9)
Onosho (M14) beat Asanoyama (M7) by default/withdrawal
Taurugisho (M11) beat Ichiyamamoto (M7)
Tamawashi (M10) beat Shonannoumi (M6)
Kinbozan (M6) beat Hiradoumi (M8)
Tobizaru (M4) beat Hokutofuji (M3) by default/withdrawal
Abi (M2) beat Gonoyama (M3)
Wakamotoharu (M1) beat Midorifuji (M2)
Ura (K) beat Atamifuji (M1)
Kotonowaka (S) beat Daieisho (S)
Kirishima (O) beat Shodai (M4)
Hoshoryu (O) beat Ryuden (M5)
Terunofuji (Y) beat Nishikigi (M5)
Leader: Kotonowaka, Onosho, Onosato (8-1)
WITHDRAWALS: Hokutofuji (M3), Asanoyama (M7). Hokutofuji-Knee. If it’s as bad as it looked, tournament over and he will be demoted with the equivalent of a 4-11-record. Asanoyama-ankle. Status uncertain. Seems day-to day based on what Nikkan Sports reported and it was a last-second withdrawal. It cost him a share of the lead and potentially a championship as he was 7-1 coming in to today.
Of note: The first promotions were earned today with Kotonowaka again protecting his Sekiwake rank, Onosato earning promotion in his top tier debut and Onosho getting the freebie due to Asanoyama withdrawing. But so were the first demotions, to Shonannoumi and Tomokaze as both are 1-8 (Tomokaze could be demoted back to Juryo unless he wins out). Ura staved off demotion again by ending Atamifuji’s 4-match winning streak.
Yokozuna Watch: Kirishima remains one off the pace at 7-2 and faces a must-win tomorrow against Onosho. A win protects his Ozeki rank and keeps him in what would be a group of at least 3 one back.
Ozeki Watch: With his Sekiwake rank now protected again, Kotonowaka remains in promotion contention as co-leader. He needs 5 more wins or the championship.
Key matches tomorrow: Kotonowaka-Onosato, Onosho-Kirishima. The winner of the former will be the sole leader or co-leader.

Juryo:
Hakuyozan (J10) beat Tochimusashi (J14)
Takerufuji (J10) beat Oshoumi (J13)
Daishoho (J9) beat Yuma (J13)
Asakoryu (J9) beat Chiyomaru (J12)
Shiden (J8) beat Tenshoho (J12)
Shimanoumi (J8) beat Akua (J11)
Chiyosakae (J14) beat Shishi (J7)
Hidenoumi (J11) beat Tokihayate (J6)
Kagayaki (J7) beat Tamashoho (J4)
Roga (J3) beat Shirokuma (J6)
Tohakuryu (J2) beat Kotoeko (J4) by default/withdrawal
Nishikifuji (J2) beat Kitanowaka (J3)
Mitoryu (J1) beat Oshoma (J5)
Chiyoshoma (J5) beat Daiamami (J1)
Leader: Takerufuji (9-0)
WITHDRAWAL: Kotoeko (J4). Flu. Return uncertain. Will be demoted due to being the equivalent of 1-8. Maybe a chance he returns for the final day or two. He might need that to keep his Juryo ranking and salary.
Of note: Takerufuji is now 2 clear of the field, which includes stablemate Nishikifuji at 7-2. He faces Roga tomorrow with the Russian looking for promotion (currently also 7-2) and a return to the top tier and the leader trying to stay 2 ahead of the Nishikifuji-Tokihayate winner. Tokihayate has now lost 2 straight after opening 7-0.

Here are the quick results from today’s Day 8-the halfway point-of the January 2024 Grand Sumo Tournament in Tokyo:
Key: M-Maegashira, K-Komusubi, S-Sekiwake, O-Ozeki, Y-Yokozuna, J-Juryo, Ms-Makushita

Makuuchi (top tier):
Nishikifuji (J2) beat Bushozan (M16)
Onosho (M14) beat Shimazuumi (M17)
Takarafuji (M16) beat Churanoumi (M13)
Onosato (M15) beat Endo (M13)
Takanosho (M12) beat Tomokaze (M15)
Tsurugisho (M11) beat Myogiryu (M12)
Oho (M11) beat Kotoshoho (M14)
Sadanoumi (M10) beat Ichiyamamoto (M7)
Tamawashi (M10) beat Asanoyama (M7)
Kinbozan (M6) beat Mitakeumi (M9)
Meisei (M9) beat Shonannoumi (M6)
Nishikigi (M9) beat Hiradoumi (M8)
Abi (M2) beat Shodai (M4)
Atamifuji (M1) beat Gonoyama (M3)
Wakamotoharu (M1) beat Ura (K)
Kotonowaka (S) beat Takayasu (K) by default/withdrawal
Daieisho (S) beat Midorifuji (M2)
Hoshoryu (O) beat Hokurofuji (M3)
Tobizaru (M4) beat Kirishima (O)
Terunofuji (Y) beat Ryuden (M5)
Leader: Asanoyama, Kotonowaka, Onosato, Onosho (7-1)
WITHDRAWAL: Takayasu (K). Back. Second time pulling out this tournament. Status uncertain. Also, it looks like Hokutofuji may be out after today as well. Back or knee injury suffered at the end of his loss to Hoshoryu when he was pushed out and landed hard in the floor in a seated position before staying down and needing to be pushed out in a wheelchair. He appeared to be favoring his already heavily taped knee. If he can’t return, Tobizaru would get the free win tomorrow. If this is it for January, Hokutofuji would finish the equivalent of 4-11 as he is currently 4-4.
Of note: No promotions yet. Asanoyama could’ve gotten #8 but he took his first loss, causing a 4-way tie for the lead as Kotonowaka got the fusenand Onosato continues his impressive rookie campaign in the top tier alongside Onosho having a career-best start. We’re also close to demotions as well, notably Ura in his Sanyaku debut-the effort is there as always but the results just haven’t gone his way, as well as Endo & Tomokaze who are also 1-7. One of those two gets their demotion tomorrow because they face each other, with Tomokaze probably returning to Juryo if he loses. The leaderboard will thin a little tomorrow because Asanoyama faces Onosho. Onosato has Meisei while Kotonowaka will try to protect his Sekiwake rank against Daieisho in the Sekiwake Showdown. Elsewhere in Sanyaku, Kirishima faces Shodai, Hoshoryu gets Ryuden and Terunofuji has Nishikigi. Terunofuji remains in contention as well at 6-2 so far.
Yokozuna Watch: Tough loss for Kirishima and that could be the difference, but at 6-2 he remains very much in it.
Ozeki Watch: Kotonowaka is halfway there. Right now he still needs 13 wins but the championship also will do it, and the former remains within reach if he can finish 6-1 or 7-0.

Juryo:
Tsushimanada (Ms2) beat Oshoumi (J13)
Akua (J11) beat Tochimusashi (3-5)
Hidenoumi (J11) beat Chiyosakae (J13)
Hakuyozan (J10) beat Yuma (J13)
Tenshoho (J12) beat Shimanoumi (J8)
Chiyomaru (J12) beat Shiden (J8)
Kagayaki (J7) beat Daishoho (J9)
Takerufuji (J10) beat Shishi (J7)
Shirokuma (J6) beat Asakoryu (J9)
Roga (J3) beat Tokihayate (J6)
Kitanowaka (J3) beat Chiyoshoma (J5)
Tohakuryu (J2) beat Oshoma (J5)
Daiamami (J1) beat Kotoeko (J4)
Tamashoho (J4) beat Mitoryu (J1)
Leader: Takerufuji (8-0)
Of note: Takerufuji is the first promotion in Juryo this time after Tokihayate took his first loss against Roga. Dating back to November he has now won 12 straight and 14 of his last 15 matches. If he can win out the top tier is potentially within reach. Not returning to Makuuchi will be Kotoeko, who is now 1-7 and may be lucky to avoid Makushita. Nishikifuji was in the top tier today and won as his efforts to return to the top tier are going well, he currently is 6-2.

RETIREMENT: Chiyoarashi (Ms16), who called it a career after his loss on Day 7 that secured a demotion and leaves him 0-4 in his finale. He reached a highest career rank of J10 in September 2011, last reaching Juryo in May 2022. His career ends just short of 16 years with a career record of 370-298-71 with 1 Sandanme Championship. He also had one 7-0 finish in Jonidan but lost in a playoff. He only spent about a year total in Juryo so he doesn’t qualify for elder stock/oyakata (you need the equivalent of 5 years-at least 30 tournaments-in the top 2 tiers, they do not have to be consecutive).

Lower tier notes:
Former Sekiwake Wakatakakage, demoted to Makushita after missing most of 2023 due to injury, will be promoted back to Juryo in March as he is 4-0 from Ms1 and is among 7 co-leaders. Hakuoho, also trying to climb back up after injury-related demotion, is currently 3-1 at Ms5 and still with a chance at Juryo. Based on what happened to Wakatakakage last time out, Hakuoho probably needs to finish 6-1 but may have a chance at 5-2 depending on what happens above him. In the Sandanme, 11 are tied at 4-0 including Wakatakamoto, demoted from Makushita after November but returning to the third tier and with a chance to perhaps give the Wakas 2 lower tier championships this time.In the Jonidan, 12 are tied at 4-0 including Ukrainian prospect Aonishiki, who won the Jonokuchi championship in his debut in November. The Jonokuchi has 2 left at 4-0 so it may be between Chiyodaigo, demoted from Makushita after missing 4 straight tournaments (he did return for the final day of November) and Anhibiki in his debut tournament.

UPDATE: Hokutofuji has WITHDRAWN. And, while not officially confirmed yet, Nikkan Sports reports a major pullout if true-Asanoyama. Ankle for the latter. The Nihon Sumo Kyokai’s website does not list Asanoyama as out yet. In Hokutofuji’s case, Tobizaru gets the fusen win on Day 9. If Asanoyama is indeed out, Onosho would remain co-leader and clinch promotion by getting the freebie.

UPDATE 2: Asanoyama has now officially WITHDRAWN about halfway through Day 9. Right ankle inflammation/swelling. Possibly twisted yesterday. Status uncertain. Onosho gets the fusen and promotion and will remain a co-leader or leader.

Here are the quick results from the first week (7 days) of the January 2024 Grand Sumo Tournament in Tokyo (Top Tier only due to time constraints. Juryo results will be posted from Day 8 onwards):
Key: M-Maegashira, K-Komusubi, S-Sekiwake, O-Ozeki, Y-Yokozuna, J-Juryo,

Continue reading “Sumo-January 2024 Grand Sumo Tournament Day 1-7 Results (Top Tier) (Updated)”