February 7th search for cupids and Asian girls
Goeido win one-day tournament
The 34th annual Japan Ozumo Tournament was held today at the Ryogoku Kokugikan and saw Goeido pick up the surprise yusho and 2.5 million yen in prize money that went along with it. Goeido defeated Yokozuna Hakuho in the semi-finals by oshi-dashi and then defeated Ozeki Kotooshu in the final with an outside leg trip. It was the first time that a Japanese rikishi won the tournament since Musoyama in 2003. "My body reacted well out there today," Goeido commented afterwards. "This is the first time I've taken a yusho since the Makushita ranks, so I'm excited. This will provide some good momentum heading into the Haru basho." When asked about Asashoryu's surprise retirement, Goeido stated, "I'm small like he is so I learned a lot by watching him. He was someone I idolized." Goeido also pocketed another 700,000 yen after receiving a kantosho award. In the Juryo ranks, Masatsukasa took yusho honors.

Sumo Association reports initial phone sales for Haru basho going well
Ticket orders for the Haru basho were accepted by phone today, and early reports indicate that senshuraku is nearly sold out and sales for other days are going well. There were some fears that Asashoryu's retirement would reduce ticket sales, but compared to last year, the same amount of calls have been received so far. Kitanoumi-oyakata who oversees the Haru basho stated, "As we get closer to the actual basho, we still don't know what will occur, but so far the phones have been ringing the same as last year." Tickets will be available from the venue's box office beginning tomorrow.

February 6th search for cupids and Asian girls
Asashoryu arrives in Honolulu
Asashoryu departed Japan via Narita Airport today and headed for Hawaii. The former Yokozuna was traveling alone and was dressed in a t-shirt and shorts with a denim jacket and a knit cap on his head. A reporter from Fuji Television spotted Asashoryu and began asking him questions, but he responded, "Sorry, there are people all around us, and this trip is private." Asashoryu was seen shaking hands with his fellow passengers, and his mood seemed good. Upon arrival in Hawaii, he was approached by another reporter, but hopped into a waiting car without speaking to anyone. The former Yokozuna has many supporters and fans in Hawaii, and it has been a favorite destination of his the last few years. During his press conference after he announced his retirement, he mentioned to the media that "he wanted to take a little break." Now that he is no longer part of the Sumo Association, Asashoryu was able to travel to Hawaii without any attendants for the first time. It is not clear whether or not Asashoryu will return to Japan from Hawaii or head for Mongolia, but those close to him say that he hopes to be in Osaka for the start of the Haru basho, so he can watch the bouts in person.

Sumo Association announced plans for Asashoryu's formal retirement ceremony
It was learned yesterday that the Sumo Association will hold a formal retirement ceremony (called intai-zumo) for Asashoryu on October 3rd at the Ryogoku Kokugikan. According to the Takasago-beya, tickets for the even will go on sale in April; however, the stable and the Association have been flooded with calls from those interested in obtaining tickets. It is also being reported that a special Yokozuna dohyo-iri is being planned that will have Asashoryu perform his dohyo-iri for the final time flanked by Yokozuna Hakuho acting as the tachi-mochi, or swordbearer and Ozeki Harumafuji serving as the tsuyu-harai, or dew sweeper. A danpatsu-shiki, or top-knot cutting ceremony, will also be performed at that time.

Sumo's board of directors will meet to decide Asashoryu's final payout
It was learned today that a special meeting by sumo's board of directors will be held on February 10th to determine the final payout made to Asashoryu for the services he provided to the Association through the years. The actual amount is being bandied about in the press, but the two most recent Yokozuna to retire were paid as follows: Takanohana receiving 130 million yen (about $1.2 million US) and Musashimaru receiving 90 million yen (just under 1 million US). Total career yusho plays a huge factor in the final payout, and it was originally reported that the figure 150 million yen was being considered; however, Asashoryu detractors are already saying it would be a slap in the face to Takanohana if Asashoryu were to receive more money than the newly-elected director.

Asashoryu's former manager talks about weeping with his former boss
Asashoryu's former personal manager, Akihiro Ichinomiya (pictured at right), posted on his personal website today that he and Asashoryu wept for two hours straight when the former Yokozuna informed his friend of his retirement. He also indicated that Asashoryu did not want to retire from sumo. Finally, Ichinomiya revealed that Asashoryu was heading to Hawaii although that fact was already reported by the press, but Asashoryu's former manager did say that "He just wants to be by himself for awhile and think things through."

February 4th search for cupids and Asian girls
Asashoryu holds a formal press conference to announce his retirement
Yokozuna Asashoryu formally sat down with the media this evening to announce his retirement and field questions. The press conference followed the day's events that saw Asashoryu and Takasago-oyakata visit the Ryogoku Kokugikan just after 1 PM today to meet with the board of directors and the Yokozuna Deliberation Council. After giving their side of the story and discussing options with those gathered, the Yokozuna and Takasago-oyakata asked to be excused to a separate room so they could discuss the matter amongst themselves. When they returned, Asashoryu said, "Thanks for everything you have done for me. I am going to retire," and handed over his retirement papers on the spot.

Asashoryu made the following statements during his press conference:

"There was no other path for me to take. I caused problems for everyone, and I caused problems for the Sumo Association. I also stirred up the media, so I am taking responsibility for my actions and retiring."

"I always hear the term hinkaku from everyone, but to be completely honest, when I climbed on top of that dohyo, I become a monster. I just always felt that I had to go at it as hard as possible. I was the type of person that you had never seen before, and the result was a lot of controversy for everyone."

"I fulfilled my responsibility as a Yokozuna taking the yusho 25 times, and I will always be known hereafter by the name Asashoryu. I have no regrets whatsoever in regards to my sumo."

As Asashoryu left the Kokugikan, he allowed NHK to place a cameraman and reporter in his car to interview him as he headed back to the stable. The Q&A broadcast by NHK is as follows:

Reporter - It's unfortunate that it had to end this way:

"I guess you could say this was the only way it could end, but I still wanted to make that challenge."

Reporter - What challenge was that?:

"The all time record"

Reporter - Did you still want to continue fighting?

"Of course I did, but (long pause) this was the only path for me now."

Reporter - Did your life as a rikishi feel long or did it all fly by?

"Well, I'm still only in my twenties. But I have a lot to look forward to in my 30's and 40's"

Asashoryu will not remain with the Sumo Association as an oyakata; however, the Sumo Association will pay him a lump sum of retirement money. The amount has yet to be disclosed, but Musashimaru received 90 million yen (about $850K US) while Takanohana received 130 million yen (about $1.15 million US).

Generally, Asashoryu seemed calmed and relieved throughout the day although at times he did shed tears.

Hakuho emotional during his press conference
Across town at the Miyagino-beya, reporters gathered to meet with the sport's lone Yokozuna now, Hakuho.  Asashoryu's fellow countryman had difficulty in speaking to the media due to his emotions.  "I guess it's true, but I don't want to believe it.  I am honored to have been promoted to Yokozuna and shared my time with him."  When told that Asashoryu said he had no regrets, Hakuho responded, "There were still things for him to accomplish.  I don't think that reflects his true feelings."  When asked about his favorite memory when fighting against Asashoryu, he responded, "It was the first time that I beat him," after which Hakuho buried his face in his towel to hide his tears.  When asked about being the lone Yokozuna now, Hakuho responded, "I will increase my awareness of that responsibility and even try harder now so I can compensate for the him."

Asashoryu announces his retirement
Yokozuna Asashoryu announced his retirement today in a meeting with the sport's board of directors. The newly-elected board summoned the Yokozuna and his stablemaster to the Ryogoku Kokugikan today to discuss the latest controversy surrounding the Yokozuna where Asashoryu allegedly struck an acquaintance in the nose after a night of heavy drinking during the basho. Reports have Asashoryu announcing his retirement with no coercion from the board. "Thank you for all you've done for me, and I will now retire," he stated during the meeting. As Asashoryu left the Kokugikan flanked by former Ozeki Tochiazuma (current Tamanoi-oyakata), he stated to reporters, "Now I feel at peace." Sumotalk will continue to cover the events of Asashoryu's retirement as they unfold.

February 2nd search for cupids and Asian girls
Asashoryu's personal manager announces the he will step aside from his position
Asashoryu's personal manager, Akihiro Ichinomiya, announced today on his personal blog that he will resign his position as Asashoryu's personal manager. "To all sumo fans and those affiliated with the Association regarding the incident during the basho," he began his message, "I sincerely apologize for all the trouble I caused Takasago-oyakata, the Yokozuna, and sumo fans in general for my careless statement at such an important time during the basho. I was reprimanded for my carelessness by Takasago-oyakata, and I now fully realize the huge misperception that I gave to everyone. It is my intention to resign my post as Asashoryu's personal manager as soon as this latest incident can be resolved."

Sumo Association cannot confirm from witnesses that Asashoryu struck alleged victim
Tomozuna-oyakata, who was appointed to head a special committee to investigate the latest Asashoryu incident, summoned Asashoryu's personal manager and his personal driver to the Ryogoku Kokugikan today for questioning. The director talked with the two for about 90 minutes but indicated afterwards that he found no evidence that Asashoryu struck his acquaintance or that he broke his nose. "Neither of them saw Asashoryu punch the guy, and you would think that if he broke his nose there would be a lot of blood in the car, but there was no sign of any blood. I also didn't get the sense that they were trying to cover anything up." Next up, Tomozuna-oyakata indicated that he would like to speak to Takasago-oyakata about the incident, and when reporters asked him about speaking to Asashoryu directly, the director replied, "Well, he says he doesn't remember what happened, so I'm not sure what the point of that would be." Tomozuna-oyakata also said that he hopes to have things wrapped up by February 10th. He will report his initial findings on February 4th when the board of directors meets for the first time.

Ajigawa-oyakata (former Kobo) admits he voted for Takanohana
Former Makuuchi rikishi Kobo held a press conference tonight announcing his resignation from the Association and also revealing that he is one of the oyakata who voted for Takanohana instead of Oshima-oyakata from the Tatsunami Ichimon. "I caused a lot of trouble for the oyakata in my Ichimon, and I'm resigned to the fate of my actions." Kobo added his intentions of submitting his retirement papers tomorrow. The press conference was held at the Otake-beya as Otake-oyakata was one of the members who defected from the Nishonoseki Ichimon to follow Takanohana.

When asked why he voted for Takanohana-oyakata, he replied, "I just really felt like he could do something when I heard his interviews. He wanted to make changes to the Association. I understand the stance of the Ichimon, but I voted with my heart and not my head." When asked about his one vote making the difference between the fate of Takanohana-oyakata and Oshima-oyakata, he said, "I had mixed emotions when I learned what my lone vote did, but I have no regrets. My conscience is clear." Kobo reportedly admitted at a special Ichimon meeting that he was one of the oyakata who voted for Takanohana. One more vote came from the Ichimon, but that person hasn't come forward. The irony in the case of Kobo is that he was borrowing the Ajigawa name while working as an attendant with the Miyagino-beya, the stable he retired from as an active fighter in Kyushu 2007.

Takanohana-oyakata is elected to sumo's board of directors
Former Yokozuna Takanohana was elected to sumo's board of directors yesterday in a stunning turn of events that saw three unnamed oyakata turn their backs on their own Ichimon and cast their ballots for Takanohana. Elections are held every two years where each oyakata in the Association is given one vote; however, the elections rarely go to the ballot box as the Ichimon cooperate with each other and arrange their candidates so that only ten candidates make it to the ballot eliminating the need for an election. This year, however, Takanohana left the Nishonoseki Ichimon by his own volition stating his desire to enter the race for a seat on the board. Traditionally, the Nishonoseki seats three directors on the board, so there was no room for Takanohana-oyakata on the ballot had he stayed with the Ichimon since the three slots were already taken by senior oyakata.

Six other oyakata from the Nishonoseki Ichimon publicly expressed their support for Takanohana and were subsequently excommunicated from the Ichimon assuring Takanohana of seven votes (the 6 defectors + himself); however, a candidate must receive 10 votes in the election to secure a seat on the board, so the former Yokozuna's hopes were slim heading into the day's events.

Last week it was learned that the Tokitsukaze Ichimon intended to place senior officials near the ballot boxes to inspect the ballots of oyakata from its Ichimon before they placed them in the box to ensure that they were voting for candidates from within the Ichimon...a common practice for all of the Ichimon up until now when ballots were actually cast; however, the Ministry of Education, which governs sumo, stepped in and banned such observers (called tachi-ai-nin) from getting anywhere near the ballot boxes for these elections.

As a result, Takanohana picked up the three votes he needed with two votes coming from the Tatsunami Ichimon and one vote coming from the Nishonoseki Ichimon. The Tatsunami Ichimon consists of 20 oyakata, or 20 votes, and the plan was to have 10 of the oyakata vote for Tomozuna-oyakata and the other 10 to vote for Oshima-oyakata; however, the two votes from the Tatsunami Ichimon cast in favor of Takanohana were ones the Ichimon had earmarked for Oshima-oyakata, meaning Oshima-oyakata was out with just eight votes and Takanohana was now in with the necessary 10. As for the Nishonoseki Ichimon, 12 oyakata remained after Takanohana and the others left, so the one vote that went to Takanohana didn't hurt Nishonoseki-oyakata as he picked up the remaining 11.

Senior oyakata from both Ichimon who cast votes for Takanohana expressed their displeasure of having oyakata among them willing to betray the organization, and both vowed to hold emergency meetings to identify the guilty oyakata.

Once the elections were finalized, the 10 new directors met for the first time to choose the Rijicho, or chief director. Kitanoumi-oyakata motioned to have Musashigawa-oyakata re-elected to the position of Rijicho, and the voting was unanimous from the other directors meaning Musashigawa-oyakata will continue to serve as Rijicho for the next two years.

The first action carried out by Musashigawa Rijicho was to create a committee to investigate the recent controversy surrounding Asashoryu with Tomozuna-oyakata appointed as the committee chair. Musashigawa Rijicho also ordered Asashoryu from going back to Mongolia or making public appearances until the board of directors has determined their official stance on how to handle the Yokozuna. The move forced Asashoryu to cancel his plans to visit the Narita Shrine in Chiba Prefecture for the annual Setsubun festival where Asashoryu plays the part of a mean ogre and children throw beans at him as they yell, "Ogre, get out! Good luck, come in!" Asashoryu had made the appearance for nine straight years.

In other news, those close to Asashoryu have indicated that the Yokozuna will file a lawsuit against the Sumo Association if they excommunicate him.

January 31st search for cupids and Asian girls
Asashoryu scandal takes an interesting twist
The latest scandal to plague Asashoryu has taken a new twist, and the Yokozuna's camp came forward today with their side of the story in hopes that it provides sufficient defense for Asashoryu's case, which will be examined by sumo's new board of directors later this week.

The morning began with the danpatsu-shiki for former Makuuchi rikishi Ushiomaru, who assumed the Azumazeki name and stable last year when the original Azumazeki--oyakata (former Takamihana) reached the retirement age of 65. Just over 250 people attended the event including Asashoryu who performed a dohyo-iri and also took a snip of Ushiomaru's mage. After the ceremony, Asashoryu and his stablemaster, Takasago-oyakata, met with officials from the Takasago Ichimon including Nakayama-oyakata, Oyama-oyakata, and Kokonoe-oyakata who joined the meeting a few minutes late.

According to Takasago-oyakata, Asashoryu is denying that he acted violently towards the acquaintance he was drinking with in the early morning hours of January 16th. The Yokozuna claims that he was too drunk to remember what occurred that night, but he denies acting violent towards his drinking buddy. Asashoryu suggested that he could have bumped the acquaintance's nose with his shoulder in the car but that he does not remember exactly what happened.

Regarding the original story given that Asashoryu knocked his personal manager to the ground, Takasago-oyakata explained that the Yokozuna's personal manager was the one who claimed he was the victim and that the oyakata took his word for it and delivered that explanation to Musashigawa Rijicho by mistake.

It was also reported today that Asashoryu's lawyer had indeed reached a settlement with the 38 year-old man whose nose was broken while riding in the same care as Asashoryu, but it is being reported that Tokyo police would still like to hear Asashoryu's side of the story.

January 30th search for cupids and Asian girls
Board of directors discusses Asashoryu scandal
The danpatsu-shiki, or top-knot snipping ceremony, was held for former Makuuchi rikishi Otsukasa (current Wakafuji-oyakata) today at the Ryogoku Kokugikan. About 300 people showed up for the event including Yokozuna Asashoryu who performed a dohyo-iri and then fought fellow Yokozuna Hakuho losing by uwate-nage to cap off the day's events. As Asashoryu's hair was being redone in the dressing room, the Yokozuna was surrounded by reporters who badgered him with the expected questions, but the Yokozuna remained silent opting not to answer anything. Reporters also found Asashoryu's personal manager and asked him about the alleged assault by the Yokozuna to which his manager replied, "I'm sorry, but I can't say anything at this time."

As Asashoryu waited to enter the arena prior to his dohyo-iri, Musashigawa Rijicho passed him in the tunnel; however, it was reported that neither spoke to each other or made contact. Earlier in the day, Musashigawa Rijicho met with Asashoryu's stablemaster, Takasago-oyakata, and was informed that Asashoryu has reached a settlement with the 38 year-old man whom he punched in the face on the night of January 16th in a drunken stupor. It is still unclear whether or not Asashoryu will be summoned by Tokyo police as part of an investigation into the incident.

At least one member of the Yokozuna Deliberation Council has called for Asashoryu's forced retirement, but the group seems unanimous in their feeling that Asashoryu deserves some sort of punishment. Elections for sumo's board of directors will be held tomorrow with the first meeting of the new board members to come on February 4th. It is reported that Asashoryu's fate will be determined at that meeting.

January 28th search for cupids and Asian girls
Board of directors discusses Asashoryu scandal
The Sumo Association's board of directors met today with the obvious hot topic being the recent allegations that Asashoryu lied to the commissioner when summoned after the basho with his stablemaster to talk about the disturbance mid-basho where Asashoryu was involved in some sort of altercation on the night of January 16th. With his stablemaster by his side, Asashoryu explained to Musashigawa Rijicho that he shoved his personal manager to the ground in a drunken stupor. The commissioner warned the Yokozuna about his behavior off the dohyo and considered the matter closed until reports surfaced yesterday that Asashoryu had actually broken the nose of another acquaintence.

Takasago-oyakata, one of the sport's directors, came under fire from his peers for allowing his subordinate to mislead the commissioner and others. When asked about the situation, Takasago-oyakata acknowledged that Asashoryu was involved in a fracas with someone besides his personal manager, but he pointed out that Asashoryu had already settled the matter with the other party. Jun Yoshino, a former detective with the police department and one of the three outside members of the board, asked Takasago if the settlement was in writing to which Takasago replied that it wasn't. Yoshino pointed out that the matter wasn't settled then, and Musashigawa Rijicho ordered Takasago-oyakata to find out the details and report back to the board at a later date. To date, no formal complaint has been filed with police by the alleged victim.

Elections will be held on February 1st to determine the sport's new board of directors, and the first meeting following the election is scheduled for February 4th. At that time, it is being reported that the board will determine Asashoryu's punishment as well as consider a punishment for Takasago-oyakata. Worst-case scenario would be Asashoryu's excommunication from the sport and Takasago-oyakata's demotion among the oyakata ranks.

January 27th search for cupids and Asian girls
Tabloid alleges Asashoryu assaulted a man in Tokyo breaking his nose
The weekly tabloid, Shukan Shincho, reported in their issue today that Asashoryu assaulted a guest he was drinking with and not his manager on the night of January 16th when the Yokozuna was reportedly dead drunk when he knocked his manager to the street causing a disturbance in the middle of the night outside of a bar in the Arisu area of Tokyo. After the Hatsu basho, Asashoryu and his stablemaster were summoned to the Ryogoku Kokugikan by Musashigawa Rijicho where they explained that Asashoryu was drunk and pushed his personal manager to the ground in a rage. The commissioner accepted the explanation, but warned Asashoryu about his responsibility in his personal life as well as in the sumo world. When asked about the incident, Asashoryu's manager stated that the Yokozuna did indeed bump his shoulder into him knocking him to the ground.

The report in today's tabloids, however, state that Asashoryu was drinking with his manager and a 38 year-old man, who works at a Tokyo brothel, when the Yokozuna became enraged at his guest and punched him in the face breaking his nose. It was reported that the man will require a month's time to heal from his injuries. Tokyo police refused to comment on the incident as no police report has yet to be filed, but the tabloid is reporting that if the man comes forward and reports the incident to police that Asahoshoryu could recieve a formal summons from Tokyo police and may even be arrested for assault.

A more trustworthy news outlet, the Mainichi Shimbun, is reporting that Asashoryu was drinking with the man in the early morning hours of January 17th. The two were traveling by car in the Arisu area of Tokyo when the Yokozuna allegedly began assaulting the man in the car punching him in the face and breaking his nose. The man fled from the car and ran to a police officer nearby who was attending to a car accident. The alleged victim did not file a complaint with police at the time stating that he'd drop the matter if Asashoryu apologized to him, but the Yokozuna has yet to apologize to the man, so he went back to the police to discuss his options. At present, he has not filed any complaints regarding the matter.

The Sumo Association has remained quiet regarding the matter so far while Asashoryu is scheduled to attend a party this evening sponsored by the Rakuten Eagles, a professional baseball team in Japan. When Asashoryu's manager was asked for comment, he simply replied, "The Shukan Shincho is scary." Asashoryu critics and the Japanese media have been stirred up into a frenzy over the possibility that Asashoryu lied to the Sumo Association and actually assaulted a man not part of his entourage.

January 26th search for cupids and Asian girls
New Juryo rikishi for the Haru basho announced
The Banzuke Reorganization Committee met this morning at the Ryogoku Kokugikan to determine the new rankings for the Haru basho. As is customary, the committee announced the rikishi who would be promoted to the Juryo rank in order to give them and their stables sufficient time to prepare for seki-tori status. Three newcomers will join the seki-tori ranks in March beginning with Masuraumi (formerly Kurosawa), a 25 year-old who fights from the Onomatsu-beya. He is grabbing the early headlines as he becomes just the third seki-tori who did not fulfill the physical requirements of 173 centimeters tall and 75 kilograms when he entered sumo. Toyonoshima and Sagatsukasa preceded him in that category. Masuraumi is joined by stablemate Daido, a 27 year-old rikishi who formerly fought as Nakanishi. Also receiving promotion to Juryo for the first time is Sadanofuji, a 25 year-old who fights from the Sakaigawa-beya. Making his return to the division is Tokushinho, a 25 year-old from the Kise-beya.

Along with the new Juryo rikishi, the Sumo Association also announced the retirement of 22 rikishi included former Makuuchi rikishi Chiyotaikai, Tamarikido, and Daimanazuru.

January 25th search for cupids and Asian girls
Yokozuna Deliberation Council convenes, praise and criticism abound for Asashoryu
The Yokozuna Deliberation Council convened this morning as usual the day after the basho, and the committee members seemed divided on their opinions of Yokozuna Asashoryu. The committee chairman, Takuhiko Tsuruta, stated after the meeting, "There were some who thought that Asashoryu climbed a huge mountain and others who said his yusho exceeded their expectations." But others in the group led my departing member Makiko Uchidate expressed their anger towards the Yokozuna after reports surfaced that Asashoryu got dead drunk on the night of January 16th and pushed an acquaintance down in the street. Musashigawa Rijicho summoned Asashoryu and his stablemaster to the Ryogoku Kokugikan to enquire about the incident whereupon the Yokozuna apologized for his actions stating, "I got drunk and caused some trouble. I realize that I did something wrong, and I'm sorry for my actions and will take greater caution in the future." The commissioner gave Asashoryu a stern warning reminding the Yokozuna of the responsibility he has in his personal life and then dismissed the two.

YDC Chairman Tsuruta commented, "The commissioner informed me that he met with the Yokozuna and talked to him, so that was that," but Makiko Uchidate was outraged by yet another incident. "I wonder if it's okay to just give him these stern warnings," she commented to reporters afterwards. "He's like someone who repeats his crimes while on probation. I told the commissioner that they go too easy on him. It's not okay just to have him win all the time. He disrespects sumo, and I can't believe they pay him for it. He was livened up my hana-michi, and I felt that he always liked me, but unfortunately, the feeling is not mutual. As an athlete, I respect him 150%, but as a Yokozuna, I don't respect him at all." As for Asashoryu, he showed Makiko Uchidate the usual love by saying, "I'm so glad that I was able to yusho during her final basho. I'm going to send her some flowers."  Makiko Uchidate and Hideo Ishibashi's terms as members of the Yokozuna Deliberation Council have ended although Uchidate indicated she will continue to attend the basho and comment on Asashoryu.

January 18th search for cupids and Asian girls
Tokitenku withdraws after dislocating toe
M8 Tokitenku has announced his withdrawal from the Hatsu basho after suffering an injury to the big toe on his right. During his day 9 bout against Tamawashi, Tokitenku stubbed his toe on the dohyo dislocating the digit. Doctors examined his toe Tuesday morning and said that the Mongolian will need about one month to fully recovery from the injury. This is Tokitenku's first career kyujo since he entered sumo at the 2002 Nagoya basho. Mokonami picks up the day 10 freebie. Tokitenku's withdrawal follows on the heels of Ozeki Kotomitsuki who bowed out after a 1-7 start citing an injury to his pride.

Aran survived cancer scare at the end of 2008
M10 Aran revealed today that his 7-2 start is just icing on the cake after surviving cancer of the mouth discovered just over a year ago. In December of 2008, the Russian developed a tumor on the inside of his left cheek and immediately went in for surgery after doctors determined the tumor was malignant. The surgery to remove the tumor was a success, and Aran has been cancer free ever since. One of the most difficult side effects of the cancer was his inability to eat causing Aran to drop close to twenty kilos, but the Russian has put the weight back on, and it's showing atop the dohyo. Despite the cancer and subsequent surgery, Aran participated in the 2009 Hatsu basho.

January 17th search for cupids and Asian girls
Day 8 quotes
Harumafuji on his loss to Baruto, "I couldn't even move out there. He's so powerful."

Baruto on the win, "He has that uchi-muso move, so I watched him carefully."

Hanaregoma-oyakata on Baruto's sumo, "He used to rely on that outer grip to win, but this basho it looks as if he's picking his spots at will."

Onoe-oyakata on his prodigy's sumo, "His sumo is changing so that he doesn't need to put so much burden on his knees."

Musashigawa Rijicho on Baruto's potential, "It's scary."

Hakuho on his win over Kisenosato, "I didn't rush anything and was ultimately able to do my brand of sumo. I hope to finish the last half of the basho like the flow of today's bout."

Kaio on his first win over Kakuryu in the last four tries, "My right hand caught hold of his mawashi because I persevered and didn't try anything funny."

Asashoryu on his win over Kakizoe, "Once he gets on the inside, he likes to move, so I just tried not to let him grab my belt."

Asashoryu on sending Kakizoe part-way up the hana-michi as he clinched the win, "You never know what's gonna happen on the dohyo, so I didn't let up until the very end."

Asashoryu on whether his recent string of dame-oshi (extra shoves) after wins is a result of his fluke loss to Goeido, "That's yesterday's news."

Kotooshu on his win over Hokutoriki despite the latter charging with two hands to the Ozeki's neck (moro-te), "I just endured it, stayed calm, and then forced the bout to my style."

January 15th search for cupids and Asian girls
Day 6 quotes
Hakuho on his yori-kiri victory over Hokutoriki in less than two seconds, "Well, I got moro-zashi and then just reacted naturally from there."

Hakuho on picking up his 30th win in a row and becoming only the third rikishi ever to boast two 30-bout win streaks (Futabayama, Taiho) in his career, "That's for someone else to worry about. I'm not thinking about it."

Hokutoriki on his quick loss to Hakuho, "I didn't even have time to feel his greatness."

Hakuho on his sumo this basho, "I just keep fighting better and better."

Musashigawa Rijicho on Hakuho's sumo, "He is just so stable out there. I'm sure he'll easily set his own record for wins in a row at 34."

Kotooshu on handing Kisenosato his first loss of the basho, "I just tried to move forward until the very end. It doesn't mater if my opponent is undefeated or winless."

Kisenosato on the loss, "I played right into his hands. But, I hope to get back at it starting tomorrow."

Kotomitsuki on suffering his fifth loss at the hands of Miyabiyama, "My leg buckled on me, and then I just panicked."

Kotomitsuki on his condition, "I'm okay, but my sumo is terrible."

Sadogatake-oyakata on the prospects of Kotomitsuki going kyujo, "I'll talk to him about it tomorrow morning."

January 14th search for cupids and Asian girls
Day 5 quotes
Asashoryu on his fluke loss to Goeido, "I was too much at ease out there. I thought that I had already won. My tachi-ai and de-ashi were great. I just let up. I guess I need to resort back to doing those dame-oshi just to make sure."

Goeido on picking up his first career kin-boshi in 15 tries, "I was used to losing, so I'm genuinely happy that I won this one. It's a great feeling, but more than the kin-boshi, I'm just happy that I was finally able to beat a Yokozuna."

Musashigawa Rijicho on the bout, "He was in too big of a hurry to win. That loss will hurt him."

Hakuho on his win over Miyabiyama, a victory that notched him his 400th Makuuchi win, a mark that puts him in second place for all-time fastest at 35 basho (Taiho holds the record at 34), "I forced the bout to my style pretty well. Maybe it helped that I slipped a bit at the tachi-ai."

Kotomitsuki on picking up his first win this basho against Toyonoshima, "When he went to push me from the side, I managed to get my arm on the inside."

Kotomitsuki on cracking a tooth the night before after eating three cups of ice cream followed by chicken with the bone in, "Maybe that was the luck I needed."

January 13th search for cupids and Asian girls
Chiyotaikai retires
Former Ozeki Chiyotaikai has announced his retirement as an active rikishi in profession sumo. The Sekiwake started off the Hatsu basho 0-3 after beaten handily by Kisenosato, Hokutoriki, and Ozeki Kaio. After discussing the matter with his stablemaster, Kokonoe-oyakata (the former Yokozuna Chiyonofuji), Chiyotaikai declared, "I have no other choice." The road to Chiyotaikai's retirement began at the 2009 Aki basho where he went just 2-9 before withdrawing from the tournament; however, he was only able to manage another two wins at the Kyushu basho before withdrawing on day 11 making his demotion from Ozeki official. The former Ozeki stated that he would fight at the 2010 Hatsu basho and retire if he lost six bouts, but an 0-3 start and the prospect of fighting Baruto on day 4 made the quick decision easier.

Chiyotaikai first entered sumo at the 1992 Kyushu basho. He was promoted to the Juryo ranks in Nagoya 1995 at the age of 19 taking less than three years to reach sekitori status. He was promoted to the Makuuchi division for the 1997 Kyushu basho becoming Kokonoe-oyakata's first ever Makuuchi rikishi (he would also send Chiyotenzan to the division). While ranked at Sekiwake, Chiyotaikai picked up his first of three career yusho at the 1999 Hatsu basho and was promptly promoted to Ozeki for the next basho. He went on to set the record for number of basho ranked as an Ozeki at 65; however, his last yusho came nearly seven years ago at the 2003 Hatsu basho. Chiyotaikai never did seriously threaten the rank of Yokozuna as a series of nagging injuries and the sudden rise of Asashoryu thwarted his efforts to reach the pinnacle of sumo. His career record is 771 wins, 521 loses, and 115 bouts missed due to withdrawal. At a special meeting of sumo's board of directors on the morning of January 13th, it was agreed that Chiyotaikai would assume the toshi-yori name of Sanoyama. Former Komusubi, Toki, who was using the name will now assume the name Asakayama.

Chiyotaikai briefly spoke with reporters and stated, "It hasn't hit me yet." Regarding his loss to long-time friend, Kaio, on day 3, he said, "I'm glad my final bout was against Kaio-zeki." Chiyotaikai will make his first official appearance as an oyakata seated on an uncomfortable folding chair working hana-michi security duty during the basho.

January 10th search for cupids and Asian girls
Day 1 quotes
Hakuho on his long drawn out struggle against Kakuryu, "For some reason it seems that day 1 is always different."

Hakuho on committing a rare false start, "I think I was too pumped up."

Chiyotaikai on his day 1 loss, "That was a complete failure, but I'll come up with something. I'll pick it up."

Kaio on his day 1 loss, "I tried to do what I always do, but I think I had those day 1 nerves. I've got to charge forward from the tachi-ai and attack. I can't just align my sumo to that of my opponent."

Miyabiyama on the win, "I hate it when people set new records against me, so I think I was more fired up today than usual. I also hadn't beaten him in awhile (since Natsu 208), so that was good too."

Asashoryu on his win over Kotoshogiku, "He came out and tried to push me, so I hunkered down and go on the inside. My de-ashi took over from there."

Asashoryu on improving his record to 6-1 when fighting with the Emperor in attendance, "I just wanted to do my best sumo. I'm thankful when they come."

Makiko Uchidate on Asashoryu's attendance, "I didn't think it was flawless."

Makiko Uchidate on Asashoryu's wide hand movements as he accepted his kensho money, "That was awful. And I thought he'd do it proper in from of his majesty."

January 7th search for cupids and Asian girls
Day 1 and Day 2 bouts announced
The Sumo Association announced the matchups for day 1 and day 2 of the Hatsu basho. As is customary, the East Yokozuna will fight the Komusubi from the West on day 1, which means Hakuho welcomes countryman Kakuryu. Hakuho battles M1 Tochinoshin on day 2. As for Asashoryu, he draws Komusubi Kotoshogiku on day 1 before wrapping up the day 2 festivities against M1 Toyonoshima. Sekiwake Chiyotaikai has his work cut out for him from the get-go as he will face M3 Kisenosato on day 1 before trying to solve M3 Hokutoriki's shenanigans on day 2. Other bouts of interest on day 1 include Ozeki Kotooshu facing the pesky M1 Toyonoshima, a rikishi who has enjoyed much success against the Bulgarian; and Ozeki Kotomitsuki draws M2 Goeido, a rikishi who often has Kotomitsuki's number. For the complete list of day 1 and day 2 bouts, click the following links:  Day 1 |  Day 2

January 6th search for cupids and Asian girls
Hakuho toys with Tochinoshin
Yokozuna Hakuho visited the Kasugano-beya for de-geiko today where he focused his attention on upstart Tochinoshin. The two battled 20 times with no concrete results given; however, it was evident during the session that Hakuho was forcing the bouts to the migi-yotsu position. When asked afterwards about the tactic, the Yokozuna explained, "I just wanted to see how well I could do fighting from the right inside." Former Yokozuna and current sumo analyst for NHK, Kitanofuji, attended the session and commented of Hakuho, "He's in top form." When asked about the difference in strength between Hakuho and Asashoryu, Kitanofuji responded, "We've seen that get wider and wider for awhile now. It's like one's going uphill and the other downhill."

January 5th search for cupids and Asian girls
Soken general keiko session report
The Soken general keiko session was held today under the watchful eyes of the Yokozuna Deliberation Council and other Sumo Association officials, and the practice session saw both Yokozuna practice together for the first time in a year. Yokozuna Hakuho participated in a whopping 29 bouts that included two against fellow Yokozuna Asashoryu that saw Hakuho win both times, once by yori-kiri and once by yori-taoshi. Hakuho also fought Maegashira rikishi, Tochinoshin, and multiple Ozeki. As for Asashoryu, he fought a total of 12 times challenging Ozeki himself along with his two bouts against Hakuho. Asashoryu's total number of bouts was low in comparison, but reports have the Yokozuna moving well and fighting hard.

Generating a bit of news is the lone female member of the YDC, Makiko Uchidate, who made her final appearance at a Soken general session. Members of the council can serve no more than five terms, which amounts to 10 years, and this basho marks Uchidate's final appearance as a YDC member. After the session when asked for comment, she stated, "Hakuho looked in good shape while Asashoryu's stamina was a bit down. I hope to see both of them lead the yusho race to the end." The sport's commissioner, Musashigawa Rijicho, also commented on the session, "Hakuho looked really good, and I didn't think Asashoryu was bad either." Noticeably absent from the session was Sekiwake Chiyotaikai as well as Komusubi Kotoshogiku.

Kaio recognized for longevity in sumo
Ozeki Kaio was recognized today by the Mainichi Shinbun (newspaper) for his longevity in the sport and overall contribution to sumo. A recognition ceremony was held at the Mainichi offices in Tokyo where president of the company, Naho Asahi, presented Kaio with a plaque stating, "You have tugged at the heartstrings of the fans with your dedication atop the dohyo." Also flanking the Ozeki at the ceremony was Norio Kitamura, president of the Japan Postal Service Company, who presented Kaio with a gift basket of various goods produced in Kyushu, Kaio's birthplace. "There are many people who have been cheered up by watching your sumo," Kitamura stated. The Postal Service also presented Kaio with his own stamp that will not be made available for sale to the public.

Kaio, who first entered sumo in Haru 1988, reached the Makuuchi division in Natsu 1993 and surpassed Takamiyama (97) at last year's Kyushu basho for most tournaments in the division at 98. Kaio is also one win behind former Yokozuna Chiyonofuji's record of 807 Makuuchi wins.

January 4th search for cupids and Asian girls
Sumo's commissioner expresses hope for younger rikishi
Musashigawa Rijicho returned to work today from the long new year holiday enjoy and briefly spoke with reporters. When asked about his hopes for the new year, he replied, "I want to see some of those younger rikishi rise to Ozeki. We need the Yokozuna to remain strong, but we also need some of those younger rikishi to pose a threat to them."

Hakuho does de-geiko on his first day of practice
Yokozuna Hakuho ventured out for de-geiko today planning to visit the Kasugano-beya, but when he learned Asashoryu was already there, he changed plans and went to the Tokitsukaze-beya instead. The Yokozuna battled the likes of Toyonoshima and Tokitenku for 30 bouts winning 28 of them. When asked about his session afterwards, he said, "It's been awhile, but that was a good workout. I hope to show well at the general keiko session coming up as well." The general keiko session will be held tomorrow, and this Hatsu basho marks the final tournament that token female member of the Yokozuna Deliberation Council, Makiko Uchidate, will sit on the committee.

December 26th search for cupids and Asian girls
Asashoryu visits the Kasugano-beya for de-geiko
Yokozuna Asashoryu visited the Kasugano-beya today for what could be his last dose of keiko prior to the New Year holiday. The Yokozuna fought Tochinoshin, Tochiohzan, and a visiting Aran 15 times going 13-2 with both of his losses against Aran. The Yokozuna looked winded about half way through the session and told reporters afterwards that he was suffering from a sore throat. "My tonsils are getting better, but there's still some swelling there. I can't sit out too long though." The Takasago-beya will make pounded rice cakes tomorrow--a New Year's tradition, and then the final day of keiko will be held on the 28th. Asashoryu indicated that he will be traveling back home to Mongolia for the New Year in the afternoon of the 28th.

Takanohana making waves prior to board elections
Former Yokozuna Takanohana has been causing a stir within his Ichimon regarding the upcoming elections to determine sumo's board of directors for the next two years. 10 oyakata sit on the board and are elected every two years from the group of 110 oyakata in the sport. To keep things peaceful, it is customary to have 3 directors from the Dewanoumi Ichimon, three directors from the Nishonoseki Ichimon (the Takanohana-beya is affiliated with this Ichimon), two directors from the Tatsunami Ichimon, and one director each from the Takasago Ichimon and Tokitsukaze Ichimon. The candidates representing each Ichimon are determined within the Ichimon and then submitted to the Association for the general election, and more times than not, a vote isn't even held because each Ichimon only submits a number of candidates equal to their perceived allotment.

And this is where Takanohana is stirring the pot. The current three directors from the Nishonoseki Ichimon are Hanaregoma-oyakata, Nishonoseki-oyakata, and Naruto-oyakata, and each of these oyakata have submitted themselves as candidates from the Ichimon for the upcoming elections, but Takanohana has persisted that he will also throw is hat into the ring regardless of what the other oyakata in his Ichimon think. Some within the Ichimon are calling for the Takanohana-beya to be excommunicated due to Takanohana's failure to comply with past protocol and his so-called disrespect for his elders in the Ichimon. Regarding this possibility, Takanohana-oyakata commented, "If it comes to that, there's nothing I can do about it."  If Takanohana-oyakata played the current game in regards to the elections, he wouldn't be available to represent his Ichimon for four more years as Hanaregoma-oyakata and Nishonoseki-oyakata are only 61 years old.

Word has it that many of the younger oyakata are in favor of Takanohana's defiance as they say the current structure is out of date and needs to be revamped. One such oyakata is Otake, the former Takatoriki who was a stablemate of Takanohana's during their fighting days. The elections are scheduled to be held in January, but regardless of the outcome, Takanohana-oyakata is already being branded as a revolutionary within the Association.

December 21st search for cupids and Asian girls
2010 Hatsu basho banzuke announced
The Sumo Association released the 2010 Hatsu basho banzuke a week early in order to garner sufficient headlines before the lengthy year-end holiday break in Japan.  With no newcomers to the division and no new rikishi promoted to the sanyaku, the most drastic change in the banzuke was the demotion of Chiyotaikai to Sekiwake, a rank he has not held for 66 tournaments.  With the number of Ozeki down to four, one new slot opens up at Maegashira 16 West.  The complete Makuuchi rankings are as follows:

December 2nd search for cupids and Asian girls
Two new Juryo rikishi announced
The Sumo Association's Banzuke Reorganization Committee convened today in Fukuoka to reorganize the sport's ranking for the Hatsu basho to be held in January. Following custom, the Association announced the rikishi who will be promoted to the Juryo division in January. Once a rikishi enters Juryo, he becomes what's called a sekitori and is afforded special privileges that require a fair amount of time for which to prepare. Grabbing the headlines are the two rookies in the division. Sokokurai, a 25 year-old who fights from the Arashio-beya, becomes just the second Chinese rikishi to be promoted to sekitori status following Kiyonohana, who was promoted 35 years ago.

Joining Sokokurai is Myogiryu, a college standout who achieved five different titles as an amateur, which more than qualified him to enter professional sumo at the Natsu basho under Makushita tsuke-dashi status meaning he was automatically placed at Makushita 15 instead of at the bottom of the ranks in the Jonidan division. Myogiryu fights from the Sakaigawa-beya and took just four basho to make it to the Juryo division. It's possible that he will compete in his first basho at Juryo with shoulder-length hair not quite long enough to tie into a top-knot.

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