Nagoya Sumo Tournament Notes (a break from sake)

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Some things to look for during the Nagoya sumo tournament, which starts Sunday, July 14.

  1. Yokozuna Terunofuji has not trained that much lately. Just sayin’
  2. Ozeki Kotozakura seems to be for real, in spite of the fact that he looks like he’s made of dough.
  3. Ozeki Takakeisho’s neck injury seems to not be totally healing, and not trivial. He good when he is on; let’s hope he remains safe throughout the tournament.
  4. Sekiwake Onosato, the winner of the last tournament, seems stable at each rank he has achieved. But sumo is one big test after another. Watch ‘im closely.
  5. Kirishima has dropped from Ozaki to Sekiwake; however, if he gets ten wins he will be reinstated.
  6. Hiradoumi has slowly, almost surreptitiously worked his way up to Komusubi. I like his simple, fundamental style. Not sure if it will sustain him at this level, though.
  7. Tiny trickster Midorifuji is down at M10, which may be more maintainable for him. Always fun to watch.
  8. Errant former Ozeki but good guy and now oft-injured Asanoyama is down at M12, and as long as his body parts hold out, should do well at this level. Would love to see him back at Ozeki but that clock be a tickin’. Just sayin’.
  9. Wakatakakage, one of my long-time faves, is finally back in the top division. Expect exciting and entertaining yet pure sumo from him. Barring any injuries I bet he does quite well.
  10. Takerufuji, winner of the last-last (i.e. March) tourney, the first in like 114 years to win the top division tournament his first time in the top division, has been demoted to Juryo, the 2nd tier division, on account of him havin’ missed the whole last tournament due to injury. In other words, 0-15. Not sure he is healthy and ready to go, according to reports. Still, rootin’ for him as I do not think he is just a flash in the pan.

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