Tamawashi, 41, Back in Makuuchi and Eyeing a Record Sanyaku Return
Tamawashi (Kataonami stable), back in makuuchi for Kyushu at 41 years and 11 months, the oldest to do so since the start of the Showa era, told Sports Hochi in an exclusive interview that his next goal is a return to sanyaku. He turns 42 on Day 9 (November 16). After a 2-13 Natsu basho hampered by a right calf injury dropped him to juryo, he said he never considered retiring, and went 9-6 in Nagoya and 10-5 in Aki to win his way back. "I really felt how much everyone loves me," he said.
Kyushu will be his 101st tournament in makuuchi, third most all-time, and he extends his record streak of 1,823 consecutive bouts since his debut. He would also love another shot at a yokozuna, and a sanyaku promotion would beat Noshirogata (komusubi at 40 years, 7 months in January 1936) as the oldest since the start of Showa. "Going back to sanyaku is my dream. After makuuchi, that's what I want to make happen."