Kirishima Eyes a Second Year-End Wins Title, Unique Among Active Rikishi
Ozeki Kirishima wrapped up Kyushu prep at Otowayama's Fukuoka lodgings on the 7th without taking bouts, stretching with bamboo and watching a stablemate who has just made juryo. He leads the 2026 wins race with 55, five clear of sekiwake Atamifuji, after three straight 12-3 basho; another year-end title would make him the only active rikishi with more than one.
The 7th is also 'Kirishima Ii-na Day' in his namesake city of Kirishima, Kagoshima, where he serves as a PR ambassador. Kirishima, who missed a third tsuna bid at Aki, calls Kyushu lucky ground and opens against Ura. A fourth Emperor's Cup would set up a fourth yokozuna run in January, Hochi notes.
Source: Yahoo! Japan Sports