The following are the events in professional
sumo
is a form of competitive full-contact wrestling where a ''rikishi'' (wrestler) attempts to force his opponent out of a circular ring (''dohyō'') or into touching the ground with any body part other than the soles of his feet (usually by thr ...
during
2022
File:2022 collage V1.png, Clockwise, from top left: Road junction at Yamato-Saidaiji Station several hours after the assassination of Shinzo Abe; 2022 Sri Lankan protests, Anti-government protest in Sri Lanka in front of the Presidential Secretari ...
.
Tournaments
Hatsu basho
Ryōgoku Kokugikan
, also known as Ryōgoku Sumo Hall or Kokugikan Arena, is the name bestowed to two different indoor sporting arenas located in Tokyo. The fist ''Ryōgoku Kokugikan'' opened its doors in 1909 and was located on the lands of the Ekōin temple in Ry ...
,
Tokyo
Tokyo (; ja, 東京, , ), officially the Tokyo Metropolis ( ja, 東京都, label=none, ), is the capital and largest city of Japan. Formerly known as Edo, its metropolitan area () is the most populous in the world, with an estimated 37.468 ...
, 9 January – 23 January
Haru basho
Osaka Prefectural Gymnasium
is an indoor sporting arena located in Namba, Osaka, Japan. It first opened in 1952 and the current building was constructed in 1987. It is the venue of a professional sumo tournament (honbasho) held in March every year. The capacity of the a ...
,
Osaka
is a designated city in the Kansai region of Honshu in Japan. It is the capital of and most populous city in Osaka Prefecture, and the third most populous city in Japan, following Special wards of Tokyo and Yokohama. With a population of 2. ...
, 13 March – 27 March
Natsu basho
Ryōgoku Kokugikan, Tokyo, 8 May – 22 May
Nagoya basho
Aichi Prefectural Gymnasium
, also known as , is a multi-purpose gymnasium in Nagoya, Japan, built in 1964.
Overview
Located on the site of the secondary enclosure of Nagoya Castle, it is host to numerous concerts and events.
The gymnasium has 4,375 fixed seats, and can ...
,
Nagoya
is the largest city in the Chūbu region, the fourth-most populous city and third most populous urban area in Japan, with a population of 2.3million in 2020. Located on the Pacific coast in central Honshu, it is the capital and the most pop ...
, 10 July – 24 July
Aki basho
Ryōgoku Kokugikan, Tokyo, 11 September – 25 September
Kyushu basho
Fukuoka Kokusai Center
in Hakata-ku, Fukuoka, Japan is a collection of three separate buildings operated by the Fukuoka Convention Center Foundation.
Fukuoka Kokusai Center
The Fukuoka Kokusai Center opened in . A Sumo Tournament is held here every November. Man ...
,
Kyushu
is the third-largest island of Japan's five main islands and the most southerly of the four largest islands ( i.e. excluding Okinawa). In the past, it has been known as , and . The historical regional name referred to Kyushu and its surroun ...
, 13 November – 27 November
News
January
*4: The
Japan Sumo Association
The is the body that operates and controls professional sumo wrestling (called ''Ōzumō'', 大相撲) in Japan under the jurisdiction of the Japanese Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology (MEXT). ''Rikishi'' (active ...
announces that
Tagonoura stable will withdraw from the January 2022 tournament after four individuals at the stable, including the stablemaster (former ''
maegashira
, or , is the top division of the six divisions of professional sumo. Its size is fixed at 42 wrestlers (''rikishi''), ordered into five ranks according to their ability as defined by their performance in previous tournaments.
This is the on ...
''
Takanotsuru
Takanotsuru Shinichi (born 18 June 1976 as Shinichi Sekiyama) is a former sumo wrestler from Izumi, Kagoshima, Japan. He made his professional debut in March 1992, and reached the top division in January 2003. His highest rank was ''maegashir ...
), test positive for
COVID-19
Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is a contagious disease caused by a virus, the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). The first known case was COVID-19 pandemic in Hubei, identified in Wuhan, China, in December ...
. The announcement means that ''
makuuchi
, or , is the top division of the six divisions of professional sumo. Its size is fixed at 42 wrestlers (''rikishi''), ordered into five ranks according to their ability as defined by their performance in previous tournaments.
This is the on ...
'' division competitor and former ''
ōzeki''
Takayasu will be unable to participate.
*7: ''Maegashira''
Hidenoumi
is a Japanese professional sumo wrestler for Kise stable. A former amateur sumo competitor at Nihon University, he made his professional debut in 2012 and was promoted to the top ''makuuchi'' division in July 2015. His highest rank to date is ...
and ''
jūryō
Professional sumo as administered by the Japan Sumo Association is divided into six ranked divisions. Wrestlers are promoted and demoted within and between these divisions based on the merit of their win–loss records in official tournaments. For ...
'' are interviewed by
Saitama Prefectural Police as part of an investigation into an
illegal gambling
Gaming law is the set of rules and regulations that apply to the gaming or gambling industry. Gaming law is not a branch of law in the traditional sense but rather is a collection of several areas of law that include criminal law, regulatory law, c ...
establishment in
Sōka
is a city in Saitama Prefecture, Japan. , the city had an estimated population of 249,645 in 118,129 households and a population density of 9100 persons per km². The total area of the city is .
Geography
Situated in the southeast corner of Sa ...
that was
raided in September 2021. Both wrestlers were withdrawn from the January 2022 tournament in December. Media reports later suggest that prosecutors will likely not press charges against either of them.
*9:
Nishikido stable
Nishikido stable (Japanese: 錦戸部屋, ''Nishikido-beya'') is a stable of sumo wrestlers, one of the Takasago group of stables. It was founded in 2002 by Mitoizumi of the Takasago stable.
It was home to the only Kazakh wrestler in professio ...
withdraws from the January 2022 tournament due to a COVID-19 case within the stable. A follow-up PCR test confirms that stablemaster Nishikido (former ''
sekiwake
, or , is the top division of the six divisions of professional sumo. Its size is fixed at 42 wrestlers (''rikishi''), ordered into five ranks according to their ability as defined by their performance in previous tournaments.
This is the on ...
''
Mitoizumi
Mitoizumi Masayuki (born 2 September 1962 as Masato Koizumi) is a former sumo wrestler from Mito, Ibaraki, Japan. His professional career spanned 22 years, from 1978 until 2000. The highest rank he reached was ''sekiwake''. He won over 800 career ...
) has contracted the virus.
*12: ''
Ōzeki Ozeki or Ōzeki may refer to:
* Ōzeki, a rank in ''Makuuchi'', the top division of professional sumo
** List of ōzeki
* Ōzeki station (disambiguation), the name of two railway stations in Japan
* Ōzeki Masutoshi (1849–1905), 16th daimyō of ...
''
Takakeishō withdraws from the January 2022 tournament after spraining his ankle in his Day 3 loss to
Ura. It is the eighth time in his career that he has had to pull out of a ''basho''.
*15: Japanese media outlets report that the Sumo Association's compliance committee, after holding hearings, concluded that Hidenoumi and Shiden participated in illegal gambling. The association's board of directors is expected to take up the issue at their meeting on 27 January. The committee's report recommends a suspension of one tournament for Hidenoumi and no suspension for Shiden, but the board could determine otherwise.
[
*21: The Sumo Association announces the retirement of Mongolian former ''maegashira'' Kyokushūhō.
*22: The ]penultimate
Penult is a linguistics term for the second to last syllable of a word. It is an abbreviation of ''penultimate'', which describes the next-to-last item in a series. The penult follows the antepenult and precedes the ultima. For example, the main ...
day of the January 2022 tournament ends with four wrestlers — ''yokozuna
, or , is the top division of the six divisions of professional sumo. Its size is fixed at 42 wrestlers (''rikishi''), ordered into five ranks according to their ability as defined by their performance in previous tournaments.
This is the on ...
'' Terunofuji
, lead=yes), is a Mongolian-born naturalised-Japanese professional sumo wrestler. Wrestling for the Isegahama stable, he entered professional sumo in January 2011 and took the second division ''jūryō'' championship in his debut as a ''sekitori ...
, ''sekiwake
, or , is the top division of the six divisions of professional sumo. Its size is fixed at 42 wrestlers (''rikishi''), ordered into five ranks according to their ability as defined by their performance in previous tournaments.
This is the on ...
'' Mitakeumi
is a Japanese professional sumo wrestler from Agematsu, Nagano. He is in the Dewanoumi stable. He is a pusher thruster-type wrestler. A former amateur champion at Toyo University, he made his professional debut in March 2015, reaching the top '' ...
and rank-and-filers Abi and Kotonowaka — all in contention for the Emperor's Cup
, commonly known as or also Japan FA Cup is a Japanese football competition. It has the longest tradition of any football match in Japan, dating back to 1921, before the formation of the J.League, Japan Football League and their predecessor, J ...
.
*23: ''Sekiwake'' Mitakeumi
is a Japanese professional sumo wrestler from Agematsu, Nagano. He is in the Dewanoumi stable. He is a pusher thruster-type wrestler. A former amateur champion at Toyo University, he made his professional debut in March 2015, reaching the top '' ...
(13–2) claims his third career ''yūshō
is the term for a championship in Japanese. This article focuses on championships in the sport of professional sumo.
It is awarded in each of the six annual ''honbasho'' or official tournaments, to the wrestler who wins the most bouts. ''Yūs ...
'' in the top division after defeating ''yokozuna'' Terunofuji
, lead=yes), is a Mongolian-born naturalised-Japanese professional sumo wrestler. Wrestling for the Isegahama stable, he entered professional sumo in January 2011 and took the second division ''jūryō'' championship in his debut as a ''sekitori ...
(11–4) in the final match and also receives his third ''Ginō-shō'' special prize for technique. With 33 victories in his last three tournaments, Mitakeumi meets the ''de facto'' requirement for promotion to the second-highest rank of '' ōzeki''. Refereeing department chairman Isegahama (the 63rd ''yokozuna'' Asahifuji
is a Japanese former professional sumo wrestler from Aomori. He joined professional sumo in 1981, reaching the top ''makuuchi'' division just two years later. He reached the second highest rank of '' ōzeki'' in 1987 and became the 63rd ''yokoz ...
) officially requested that the Sumo Association meet on 26 January to discuss Mitakeumi, making ''ōzeki'' promotion all but certain. Meanwhile both of the current ''ōzeki'', Shōdai (6–9) and Takakeishō (1–3–11), will enter the March ''basho'' at demotion-threatened '' kadoban'' status. Tournament runner-up Abi (12–3), who secured his sixth consecutive winning record since returning from suspension in March 2021 and picked up a ''kinboshi
is a notation used in professional sumo wrestling to record a lower-ranked (''maegashira'') wrestler's victory over a ''yokozuna''.
It is believed that the term stems from the usage of the terms ''shiroboshi'' (lit: white star) to designate a b ...
'' against Terunofuji on Day 14, is awarded his first ''Shukun-shō'' (Outstanding Performance prize). Kotonowaka (11–4), eliminated from Emperor's Cup contention when he was defeated by Abi on Day 15, is awarded his first ''Kantō-shō'' (Fighting Spirit prize). Former rank-and-filer Kotoshōhō (11–4) wins the ''jūryō
Professional sumo as administered by the Japan Sumo Association is divided into six ranked divisions. Wrestlers are promoted and demoted within and between these divisions based on the merit of their win–loss records in official tournaments. For ...
'' division championship, eventually resulting in his return to ''maegashira'' after one year.
*26: Mitakeumi's ''ōzeki'' promotion is finalized by the Sumo Association. The 29-year-old is the sixth oldest ''ōzeki'' in sumo history, as well as the first ''ōzeki'' from Nagano Prefecture
is a landlocked prefecture of Japan located in the Chūbu region of Honshū. Nagano Prefecture has a population of 2,052,493 () and has a geographic area of . Nagano Prefecture borders Niigata Prefecture to the north, Gunma Prefecture to the ...
in 227 years (since Raiden Tameemon). In his customary acceptance speech, Mitakeumi said he would embrace gratitude, express his own style and devote himself to the way of sumo.
Four promotions to ''jūryō'' are announced. Newly promoted are 19-year-old and 25-year-old . Atamifuji made his professional debut in November 2020 and won the ''jonokuchi
Professional sumo as administered by the Japan Sumo Association is divided into six ranked divisions. Wrestlers are promoted and demoted within and between these divisions based on the merit of their win–loss records in official tournaments. For ...
'' and ''jonidan
Professional sumo as administered by the Japan Sumo Association is divided into six ranked divisions. Wrestlers are promoted and demoted within and between these divisions based on the merit of their win–loss records in official tournaments. Fo ...
'' championships in his first two tournaments. He advances to ''sekitori
A ''sekitori'' (関取) is a ''rikishi'' (力士, sumo wrestler) who is ranked in one of the top two professional divisions: ''makuuchi'' and ''jūryō''.
The name literally translates to having taken the barrier, as only a relatively small fract ...
'' after just seven ''basho'', all with winning records. Shimazuumi entered sumo in 2012 and had been struggling in the lower divisions with various injuries. He is the first ''sekitori'' for the Hanaregoma stable
was a stable of sumo wrestlers, one of the Nishonoseki '' ichimon'' or group of stables. As of September 2010 it had eight active wrestlers.
The stable was established in 1981 by former '' ōzeki'' Kaiketsu Masateru, as a breakaway from Hanakag ...
under its new owner, former ''sekiwake'' Tamanoshima
Tamanoshima Arata (born September 15, 1977, as Arata Okabe) is a former sumo wrestler from Izumizaki, Fukushima, Izumizaki, Fukushima Prefecture, Fukushima, Japan. A former amateur champion, he made his professional debut in 1998, reaching the to ...
. Returning to ''jūryō'' is Ryūden, who had been suspended for violating COVID-19
Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is a contagious disease caused by a virus, the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). The first known case was COVID-19 pandemic in Hubei, identified in Wuhan, China, in December ...
protocols before returning to secure the November 2021 ''makushita
Professional sumo as administered by the Japan Sumo Association is divided into six ranked divisions. Wrestlers are promoted and demoted within and between these divisions based on the merit of their win–loss records in official tournaments. For ...
'' championship. He has a combined record of 13-1 in his last two ''basho''. Takakentō also returns to sumo's second-highest division after two tournaments at ''makushita''.
51-year-old Hanakaze is among the retirements announced by the Sumo Association. Having debuted at the age of 15 in 1986, he is the final sumo wrestler to retire from the Shōwa Era
The was the period of Japanese history corresponding to the reign of Emperor Shōwa ( Hirohito) from December 25, 1926, until his death on January 7, 1989. It was preceded by the Taishō era.
The pre-1945 and post-war Shōwa periods are almos ...
. He competed in a total of 214 tournaments, but never rose above the third-lowest ''sandanme
Professional sumo as administered by the Japan Sumo Association is divided into six ranked divisions. Wrestlers are promoted and demoted within and between these divisions based on the merit of their win–loss records in official tournaments. For ...
'' division.
The Sumo Association announces that Kakuryū (the 71st ''yokozuna
, or , is the top division of the six divisions of professional sumo. Its size is fixed at 42 wrestlers (''rikishi''), ordered into five ranks according to their ability as defined by their performance in previous tournaments.
This is the on ...
'') and one ''gyōji
A ''gyōji'' () is a referee in professional sumo wrestling in Japan.
''Gyōji'' usually enter the sumo world as teenagers and remain employees of the Sumo Association until they retire aged 65. There are currently a little over 40 active ''gy ...
'' have tested positive for COVID-19
Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is a contagious disease caused by a virus, the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). The first known case was COVID-19 pandemic in Hubei, identified in Wuhan, China, in December ...
.
*27: The Sumo Association's Board of Directors accepts the committee's report regarding illegal gambling by ''maegashira'' Hidenoumi
is a Japanese professional sumo wrestler for Kise stable. A former amateur sumo competitor at Nihon University, he made his professional debut in 2012 and was promoted to the top ''makuuchi'' division in July 2015. His highest rank to date is ...
and ''jūryō
Professional sumo as administered by the Japan Sumo Association is divided into six ranked divisions. Wrestlers are promoted and demoted within and between these divisions based on the merit of their win–loss records in official tournaments. For ...
'' . Hidenoumi is handed a one-tournament suspension retroactive to the January 2022 tournament along with a 20% salary cut for two months. Shiden is not issued any formal suspension, but his '' kyūjō'' from the January ''basho'' will likely result in his demotion from ''sekitori
A ''sekitori'' (関取) is a ''rikishi'' (力士, sumo wrestler) who is ranked in one of the top two professional divisions: ''makuuchi'' and ''jūryō''.
The name literally translates to having taken the barrier, as only a relatively small fract ...
'' status and a loss of salary. Stablemaster Kise (former ''maegashira'' Higonoumi
Higonoumi Naoya (born 23 September 1969 as Naoto Sakamoto) is a former sumo wrestler from Kumamoto, Japan. After his retirement he opened up Kise stable.
Career
A former amateur champion at Nihon University, he turned professional in 1992, joini ...
) is handed a warning.
Takekuma (former '' ōzeki'' Gōeidō), whose retirement ceremony is scheduled for 29 January, is approved to open a new stable, Takekuma stable.
Tomozuna (former ''sekiwake'' Kyokutenhō) and Ōshima (former ''sekiwake'' Kaiki) will swap elder names, resulting in Tomozuna stable being renamed Ōshima stable from 1 February.
The Sumo Association announces it plans to increase the daily spectator limit for the May 2022 tournament at the Ryōgoku Kokugikan
, also known as Ryōgoku Sumo Hall or Kokugikan Arena, is the name bestowed to two different indoor sporting arenas located in Tokyo. The fist ''Ryōgoku Kokugikan'' opened its doors in 1909 and was located on the lands of the Ekōin temple in Ry ...
to 9,265—or about 87% capacity—after submitting a COVID-19
Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is a contagious disease caused by a virus, the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). The first known case was COVID-19 pandemic in Hubei, identified in Wuhan, China, in December ...
infection control and safety plan to the Tokyo Metropolitan Government
The is the government of the Tokyo Metropolis. One of the 56 prefectures of Japan, the government consists of a popularly elected governor and assembly. The headquarters building is located in the ward of Shinjuku. The metropolitan government ...
.
*30: The retirement ceremony of Kiyomigata (former ''sekiwake'' Tochiōzan) takes place at the Kokugikan, the day after the same ceremony was held for Takekuma (former ''ōzeki'' Gōeidō).
*31: Five days after his promotion was finalized, the Sumo Association announces that new ''ōzeki'' Mitakeumi
is a Japanese professional sumo wrestler from Agematsu, Nagano. He is in the Dewanoumi stable. He is a pusher thruster-type wrestler. A former amateur champion at Toyo University, he made his professional debut in March 2015, reaching the top '' ...
has tested positive for COVID-19. Sumo Association spokesman Shibatayama (the 62nd ''yokozuna'' Ōnokuni) says that depending on the situation, members who participated in the retirement ceremonies of both Gōeidō and Tochiōzan on 29 and 30 January, respectively, will be tested for the coronavirus since Mitakeumi took part in snipping both of their topknots in the ''dohyo''.
February
*2: The Sumo Association announces that six more ''sekitori
A ''sekitori'' (関取) is a ''rikishi'' (力士, sumo wrestler) who is ranked in one of the top two professional divisions: ''makuuchi'' and ''jūryō''.
The name literally translates to having taken the barrier, as only a relatively small fract ...
'' from three different stables have tested positive for COVID-19 – Daieishō, Tobizaru, Tsurugishō and Daiamami
is a Japanese professional sumo wrestler from Tatsugō, Kagoshima. After a successful amateur career, he turned professional in January 2016, making the top ''makuuchi'' division in November of the following year. His highest rank has been ' ...
from Oitekaze stable
The is a stable of sumo wrestlers, part of the Tokitsukaze ''ichimon'' or group of stables. It was established in its modern incarnation on 1 October 1998 by former ''maegashira'' Daishōyama, who is the stable's current head coach. He had marrie ...
, Aoiyama from Kasugano stable
is a Heya (sumo), stable of sumo wrestlers, part of the Dewanoumi ''Glossary of sumo terms#ichimon, ichimon'' or group of stables. As of January 2022 it had 18 wrestlers. It has been led by former ''sekiwake'' Tochinowaka Kiyotaka since 2003. It w ...
and Takanoshō from Tokiwayama stable is a stable of sumo wrestlers, part of the Nishonoseki ''ichimon'' or group of stables. As of January 2022, it had nine wrestlers.
History
It was founded as Chiganoura stable in September 2004 by former ''sekiwake'' Masudayama, who branched of ...
.
*3: Takayasu and Okinoumi
is a retired Japanese professional sumo wrestler from Okinoshima, Shimane. He joined professional sumo in 2005, reaching the top division in 2010. He was runner-up in ''makuuchi'' three times in the January 2011, March 2013, and November 2017 t ...
take part in the Setsubun
is the day before the beginning of spring in the old calendar in Japan. The name literally means 'seasonal division', referring to the day just before the first day of spring in the traditional calendar, known as ; though previously referri ...
bean-throwing ceremony at the Narita-san
Narita-san (成田山 "Narita mountain") Shinshō-ji ( 新勝寺 "New victory temple") is a Shingon Buddhist temple located in central Narita, Chiba, Japan. It was founded in 940 by Kanchō Daisōjō, a disciple of Kōbō Daishi. It is a lead tem ...
Shinshō-ji temple.
*4: ''Yokozuna'' Terunofuji
, lead=yes), is a Mongolian-born naturalised-Japanese professional sumo wrestler. Wrestling for the Isegahama stable, he entered professional sumo in January 2011 and took the second division ''jūryō'' championship in his debut as a ''sekitori ...
, ''ōzeki'' Takakeishō and former ''ōzeki'' Tochinoshin
; ) is a Georgian professional sumo wrestler from Mtskheta. He is a member of the Kasugano stable and made his professional debut in March 2006. He reached the top ''makuuchi'' division just two years later in May 2008. After a long hiatus due t ...
are among 17 additional individuals from nine stables
A stable is a building in which livestock, especially horses, are kept. It most commonly means a building that is divided into separate stalls for individual animals and livestock. There are many different types of stables in use today; the ...
announced by the Sumo Association as testing positive for COVID-19. Those also testing positive from the ''sekitori
A ''sekitori'' (関取) is a ''rikishi'' (力士, sumo wrestler) who is ranked in one of the top two professional divisions: ''makuuchi'' and ''jūryō''.
The name literally translates to having taken the barrier, as only a relatively small fract ...
'' ranks include Hōshōryū, Ichiyamamoto, Tokushōryū, Wakamotoharu
is a Japanese professional sumo wrestler from Fukushima (city), Fukushima. He wrestles for the Arashio stable, where he is a heya (sumo), stable mate of his brothers Wakatakakage Atsushi, Wakatakakage and Wakatakamoto. His highest rank to date ha ...
and Wakatakakage
is a Japanese professional sumo wrestler from Fukushima. He made his debut in March 2017 and reached the top ''makuuchi'' division in November 2019. He wrestles for Arashio stable, where he is a stablemate of his older brothers Wakatakamoto and ...
. Spokesman Shibatayama says that the retirement ceremony for Nakamura (former ''sekiwake'' Yoshikaze
Yoshikaze Masatsugu (born March 19, 1982 as Masatsugu Ōnishi) is a former sumo wrestler from Saiki, Oita Prefecture, Japan. His highest rank was ''sekiwake''. A former amateur sumo champion, he turned professional in 2004, reaching the top divi ...
) will be held as scheduled on 5 February, but additional sumo events scheduled at the Kokugikan—including the Fuji TV
JOCX-DTV (channel 8), branded as and colloquially known as CX, is a Japanese television station based in Odaiba, Minato, Tokyo, Japan. Owned and operated by the it is the key station of the Fuji News Network (FNN) and the Fuji Network Sys ...
-sponsored Grand Sumo Tournament on 6 February and the NHK
, also known as NHK, is a Japanese public broadcaster. NHK, which has always been known by this romanized initialism in Japanese, is a statutory corporation funded by viewers' payments of a television license fee.
NHK operates two terrestr ...
charity tournament on 11 February—are eventually cancelled.
*7: Oguruma stable
was a stable of sumo wrestlers, one of the Nishonoseki group of stables. In its modern form it existed from March 1987 when it was founded by Kotokaze, a former Sadogatake stable wrestler., until February 2022. The first wrestler from the sta ...
closes, with Oshiogawa Oyakata (ex-''sekiwake'' Takekaze
Takekaze Akira (born June 21, 1979 as Akira Narita) is a former professional sumo wrestler from Akita Prefecture, Japan. A former amateur sumo champion, he turned professional in 2002, reaching the top ''makuuchi'' division the following year. He ...
) taking six Oguruma wrestlers with him and establishing his own Oshiogawa stable was a Heya (sumo), stable of sumo wrestlers, one of the Nishonoseki group of stables. In its modern form it dates from March 1975 when it was founded by Daikirin Takayoshi, Daikirin, a former Nishonoseki stable (1911–2013), Nishonoseki stable wre ...
. The remaining eight wrestlers are transferring along with the former Yoshikaze to Nishonoseki stable Nishonoseki stable may refer to:
* Nishonoseki stable (1911–2013)
(1911–2013) was a stable of sumo wrestlers, part of the Nishonoseki group of stables (''ichimon'') named after it. It first appeared in the late eighteenth century and was re-e ...
.
*9: The Sumo Association announces that ''ōzeki'' Shōdai is among 48 additional sumo personnel, including nine ''sekitori'' and eleven elders, testing positive for COVID-19. Since the start of the January 2022 tournament a total of 252 out of the association's approximately 900 members, including half of all of the wrestlers ranked in the ''makuuchi
, or , is the top division of the six divisions of professional sumo. Its size is fixed at 42 wrestlers (''rikishi''), ordered into five ranks according to their ability as defined by their performance in previous tournaments.
This is the on ...
'' division, have tested positive for the virus. Spokesman Shibatayama told reporters that symptoms of sore throat
Sore throat, also known as throat pain, is pain or irritation of the throat. Usually, causes of sore throat include
* viral infections
* group A streptococcal infection (GAS) bacterial infection
* pharyngitis (inflammation of the throat)
* tonsi ...
and fever
Fever, also referred to as pyrexia, is defined as having a body temperature, temperature above the human body temperature, normal range due to an increase in the body's temperature Human body temperature#Fever, set point. There is not a single ...
were reported, but there were also quite a few cases that were asymptomatic
In medicine, any disease is classified asymptomatic if a patient tests as carrier for a disease or infection but experiences no symptoms. Whenever a medical condition fails to show noticeable symptoms after a diagnosis it might be considered asy ...
. He said that the Sumo Association would consult with infectious disease experts as it prepares for the next ''basho'' in Osaka.
*10: ''Maegashira'' Ura and ''jūryō
Professional sumo as administered by the Japan Sumo Association is divided into six ranked divisions. Wrestlers are promoted and demoted within and between these divisions based on the merit of their win–loss records in official tournaments. For ...
'' test positive for COVID-19.
*14: Due to COVID concerns, the March ''maezumō
The following words are terms used in sumo wrestling in Japan.
A
B
C
D
E
F
G
H
...
'' for new sumo wrestlers is cancelled for the second year in a row. The new wrestler inspections scheduled for 25 February are also postponed. New wrestlers will be ranked for the May ''basho'' in Tokyo after their applications have been submitted and scrutinized by the Sumo Association.
*19: The retirement ceremony is held for Tateyama (former ''maegashira
, or , is the top division of the six divisions of professional sumo. Its size is fixed at 42 wrestlers (''rikishi''), ordered into five ranks according to their ability as defined by their performance in previous tournaments.
This is the on ...
'' Homarefuji
is a retired professional sumo wrestler from the town of Ajigasawa in Aomori prefecture, Japan. A former amateur champion, he made his professional debut in January 2008 and wrestled for Isegahama stable, one of the more successful stables in s ...
) at the Kokugikan.
*25: The Saitama Prefecture
is a landlocked prefecture of Japan located in the Kantō region of Honshu. Saitama Prefecture has a population of 7,338,536 (1 January 2020) and has a geographic area of 3,797 km2 (1,466 sq mi). Saitama Prefecture borders Tochigi Prefecture ...
Public Prosecutor's Office announces that it will not prosecute wrestlers Hidenoumi
is a Japanese professional sumo wrestler for Kise stable. A former amateur sumo competitor at Nihon University, he made his professional debut in 2012 and was promoted to the top ''makuuchi'' division in July 2015. His highest rank to date is ...
and , who had been suspected of illegal gambling.
*26: The Sumo Association announces that three ''oyakata
The following words are terms used in sumo wrestling in Japan.
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''—Nakamura (former ''sekiwake'' Yoshikaze
Yoshikaze Masatsugu (born March 19, 1982 as Masatsugu Ōnishi) is a former sumo wrestler from Saiki, Oita Prefecture, Japan. His highest rank was ''sekiwake''. A former amateur sumo champion, he turned professional in 2004, reaching the top divi ...
), Nakagawa (former ''maegashira'' Asahisato
Asahisato Kenji (born 9 November 1965 as Kenji Masuda) is a former sumo wrestler from Ikeda, Osaka, Japan. His active career spanned 17 years and 102 tournaments from 1981 until 1998, and his highest rank was ''maegashira'' 14. Upon his retirement ...
) and Inagawa (former ''komusubi'' Futen'ō)—have tested positive for COVID-19. Additional tests will be made on approximately 570 members of the Sumo Association with the March ''basho'' in Osaka just two weeks away.
*28: The ''banzuke
A , officially called is a document listing the rankings of professional sumo wrestlers published before each official tournament (''honbasho''). The term can also refer to the rankings themselves. The document is normally released about two w ...
'' for the March 2022 tournament in Osaka is released by the Sumo Association. Mitakeumi
is a Japanese professional sumo wrestler from Agematsu, Nagano. He is in the Dewanoumi stable. He is a pusher thruster-type wrestler. A former amateur champion at Toyo University, he made his professional debut in March 2015, reaching the top '' ...
is officially listed for the first time at sumo's second-highest rank of '' ōzeki'', while the two others at the rank— Shōdai and Takakeishō—fight to avoid demotion. Abi, who finished as the top division runner-up twice in a row, finds himself vaulted all the way from ''maegashira
, or , is the top division of the six divisions of professional sumo. Its size is fixed at 42 wrestlers (''rikishi''), ordered into five ranks according to their ability as defined by their performance in previous tournaments.
This is the on ...
'' 6 to a new career high at sumo's third-highest rank of ''sekiwake
, or , is the top division of the six divisions of professional sumo. Its size is fixed at 42 wrestlers (''rikishi''), ordered into five ranks according to their ability as defined by their performance in previous tournaments.
This is the on ...
''. It marks Abi's return to ''san'yaku
The following words are terms used in sumo wrestling in Japan.
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'' since being ranked at ''komusubi
, or , is the top division of the six divisions of professional sumo. Its size is fixed at 42 wrestlers (''rikishi''), ordered into five ranks according to their ability as defined by their performance in previous tournaments.
This is the on ...
'' for four tournaments in 2019 and 2020. Also making his ''sekiwake'' debut is Wakatakakage
is a Japanese professional sumo wrestler from Fukushima. He made his debut in March 2017 and reached the top ''makuuchi'' division in November 2019. He wrestles for Arashio stable, where he is a stablemate of his older brothers Wakatakamoto and ...
, who returns to ''san'yaku'' after being ranked at ''komusubi'' last July. Hōshōryū, the nephew of former ''yokozuna
, or , is the top division of the six divisions of professional sumo. Its size is fixed at 42 wrestlers (''rikishi''), ordered into five ranks according to their ability as defined by their performance in previous tournaments.
This is the on ...
'' Asashōryū, makes his ''san'yaku'' debut at ''komusubi''. He joins Takanoshō, who was demoted from ''sekiwake'' after an eight-loss performance in January. Japanese-Filipino wrestler Kōtokuzan, who had double-digit wins in ''jūryō
Professional sumo as administered by the Japan Sumo Association is divided into six ranked divisions. Wrestlers are promoted and demoted within and between these divisions based on the merit of their win–loss records in official tournaments. For ...
'' in the last two tournaments, is the only new promotion to the ''makuuchi
, or , is the top division of the six divisions of professional sumo. Its size is fixed at 42 wrestlers (''rikishi''), ordered into five ranks according to their ability as defined by their performance in previous tournaments.
This is the on ...
'' division. Three wrestlers are promoted again to ''makuuchi'': Kotoshōhō, who returns after five tournaments (and securing the ''jūryō'' championship in the last tournament), Nishikigi, returning after nine tournaments, and Kagayaki
The is a high-speed ''shinkansen'' train service jointly operated by East Japan Railway Company (JR East) and West Japan Railway Company (JR West) between and on the Hokuriku Shinkansen line in Japan. The shinkansen service was introduced o ...
, who returns after he had just been demoted.
March
*12: After stating the previous day that there were no positive tests for COVID-19 among those scheduled to participate in the March 2022 tournament, the Sumo Association announces that Onoe stable
is a Heya (sumo), stable of sumo wrestlers, part of the Dewanoumi stable, Dewanoumi Glossary of sumo terms#ichimon, group of stables. It is situated in Tokyo's Ōta, Tokyo, Ōta ward. It was established in August 2006 by former ''komusubi'' Haman ...
will miss the March ''basho'' after two lower-ranked wrestlers come down with the virus.
*18: ''Yokozuna'' Terunofuji
, lead=yes), is a Mongolian-born naturalised-Japanese professional sumo wrestler. Wrestling for the Isegahama stable, he entered professional sumo in January 2011 and took the second division ''jūryō'' championship in his debut as a ''sekitori ...
withdraws on Day 6 of the March ''basho'' citing issues with his right heel and left knee, both of which he has injured in the past. The withdrawal comes after suffering defeats to Daieishō and, for the second straight tournament, Tamawashi. It is his first '' kyūjō'' since his promotion to sumo's highest rank.
*27: New ''sekiwake
, or , is the top division of the six divisions of professional sumo. Its size is fixed at 42 wrestlers (''rikishi''), ordered into five ranks according to their ability as defined by their performance in previous tournaments.
This is the on ...
'' Wakatakakage
is a Japanese professional sumo wrestler from Fukushima. He made his debut in March 2017 and reached the top ''makuuchi'' division in November 2019. He wrestles for Arashio stable, where he is a stablemate of his older brothers Wakatakamoto and ...
(12–3) defeats ''maegashira
, or , is the top division of the six divisions of professional sumo. Its size is fixed at 42 wrestlers (''rikishi''), ordered into five ranks according to their ability as defined by their performance in previous tournaments.
This is the on ...
'' and former '' ōzeki'' Takayasu (12–3) in a playoff
The playoffs, play-offs, postseason or finals of a sports league are a competition played after the regular season by the top competitors to determine the league champion or a similar accolade. Depending on the league, the playoffs may be eithe ...
to clinch the March 2022 top division championship
In sport, a championship is a competition in which the aim is to decide which individual or team is the champion.
Championship systems
Various forms of competition can be referred to by the term championship.
Title match system
In this system ...
. Both wrestlers entered the final day in Osaka with 12 wins and the chance to win their first ''yūshō'' along with a third competitor, ''maegashira'' Kotonowaka, who started the day with 11 wins and could only hope to participate in a two or three-way playoff. First up was Kotonowaka (11–4), who was taken out of the ''yūshō'' picture with a loss to new ''komusubi
, or , is the top division of the six divisions of professional sumo. Its size is fixed at 42 wrestlers (''rikishi''), ordered into five ranks according to their ability as defined by their performance in previous tournaments.
This is the on ...
'' Hōshōryū (8–7); the nephew of the 68th ''yokozuna
, or , is the top division of the six divisions of professional sumo. Its size is fixed at 42 wrestlers (''rikishi''), ordered into five ranks according to their ability as defined by their performance in previous tournaments.
This is the on ...
'' Asashōryū secured his much needed winning record
In sports, a winning percentage is the fraction of games or matches a team or individual has won. The statistic is commonly used in standings or rankings to compare teams or individuals. It is defined as wins divided by the total number of matc ...
to stay in the san'yaku
The following words are terms used in sumo wrestling in Japan.
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ranks. Next was Takayasu, who was pushed out by new ''sekiwake'' Abi (8–7) in his match. Wakatakakage then had the chance to win the Emperor's Cup outright in the final bout of the tournament but was driven out of the ring by ''ōzeki'' Shōdai (9–6) who, like fellow ''ōzeki'' Takakeishō (8–7), secured enough wins to be taken out of '' kadoban'' status. This set up the playoff match in which Wakatakakage eventually avoided Takayasu's charge and used a pulling overarm throw to secure the victory. In addition to his maiden top division championship, Wakatakakage earns his third ''ginō-shō'' (Technique prize). The other two in contention for the Emperor's Cup both receive the ''kantō-shō'' (Fighting Spirit prize); it is the tenth overall '' sanshō'' prize for Takayasu and the third Fighting Spirit prize for Kotonowaka. The ''jūryō
Professional sumo as administered by the Japan Sumo Association is divided into six ranked divisions. Wrestlers are promoted and demoted within and between these divisions based on the merit of their win–loss records in official tournaments. For ...
'' championship is won by former ''komusubi'' Ryūden (13–2), who has now won both a ''makushita
Professional sumo as administered by the Japan Sumo Association is divided into six ranked divisions. Wrestlers are promoted and demoted within and between these divisions based on the merit of their win–loss records in official tournaments. For ...
'' and ''jūryō'' division title since he was suspended last year for violating COVID-19
Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is a contagious disease caused by a virus, the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). The first known case was COVID-19 pandemic in Hubei, identified in Wuhan, China, in December ...
protocols.
*28: The Japan Sumo Association conducts the biannual elections for its Board of Directors. Newly elected to the board are Sadogatake (former ''sekiwake'' Kotonowaka, whose son
A son is a male offspring; a boy or a man in relation to his parents. The female counterpart is a daughter. From a biological perspective, a son constitutes a first degree relative.
Social issues
In pre-industrial societies and some current c ...
presently competes in the top division) and Isenoumi (former ''maegashira'' Kitakachidoki
Kitakachidoki Hayato (born 1 January 1966 as Hayato Kuga) is a former sumo wrestler from Obihiro, Hokkaidō, Japan. He made his professional debut in 1981, and reached the top division in 1989. His highest rank was '' maegashira 3''. After retir ...
). The board then elects Hakkaku (the 61st ''yokozuna'' Hokutoumi
is a Japanese former professional sumo wrestler from Hokkaidō. He was the sport's 61st ''yokozuna'' and won eight top division championships. He wrestled for Kokonoe stable, as did Chiyonofuji, and the two were the first ''yokozuna'' stablemat ...
) to a fourth full term as chairman of the Sumo Association.
*30: The Sumo Association announces two promotions to the second-highest ''jūryō
Professional sumo as administered by the Japan Sumo Association is divided into six ranked divisions. Wrestlers are promoted and demoted within and between these divisions based on the merit of their win–loss records in official tournaments. For ...
'' division for May. Newly promoted is 29-year-old , an 11-year sumo veteran whose '' maezumo'' took place alongside such wrestlers as ''yokozuna'' Terunofuji
, lead=yes), is a Mongolian-born naturalised-Japanese professional sumo wrestler. Wrestling for the Isegahama stable, he entered professional sumo in January 2011 and took the second division ''jūryō'' championship in his debut as a ''sekitori ...
and former ''sekiwake'' Meisei. returns to ''jūryō'' after one tournament at ''makushita
Professional sumo as administered by the Japan Sumo Association is divided into six ranked divisions. Wrestlers are promoted and demoted within and between these divisions based on the merit of their win–loss records in official tournaments. For ...
''.
Former ''jūryō'' is among fifteen wrestler retirements announced by the Sumo Association.
The refereeing department of the Sumo Association appoints Nishonoseki (the 72nd ''yokozuna'' Kisenosato
is a Japanese former professional sumo wrestler from Ibaraki. He made his professional debut in 2002, and reached the top ''makuuchi'' division in 2004 at the age of just 18. After many years in the junior ''san'yaku'' ranks, he reached the sec ...
) and Naruto (former ''ōzeki'' Kotoōshū) as '' shimpan'' (ringside judges).
*31: At a board meeting in Tokyo, the refereeing department of the Sumo Association decides to reduce the number of total ''sandanme
Professional sumo as administered by the Japan Sumo Association is divided into six ranked divisions. Wrestlers are promoted and demoted within and between these divisions based on the merit of their win–loss records in official tournaments. For ...
'' wrestlers from 100 on either side of the ''banzuke
A , officially called is a document listing the rankings of professional sumo wrestlers published before each official tournament (''honbasho''). The term can also refer to the rankings themselves. The document is normally released about two w ...
'' to 90 (180 total). Spokesperson Shibatayama (the 62nd ''yokozuna'' Ōnokuni) explained that the change was made because the number of participants had become unbalanced, suggesting that the number could be lowered further to 80 on each side in the future.
The Sumo Association also decides to open the July tournament in Nagoya
is the largest city in the Chūbu region, the fourth-most populous city and third most populous urban area in Japan, with a population of 2.3million in 2020. Located on the Pacific coast in central Honshu, it is the capital and the most pop ...
to full capacity (7,448 per day) with same-day ticket sales, and to resume regional sumo tours following the Nagoya ''basho'' for the first time since the 2019 winter tour with COVID-19
Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is a contagious disease caused by a virus, the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). The first known case was COVID-19 pandemic in Hubei, identified in Wuhan, China, in December ...
prevention measures in place.
April
*15: Among the new recruits passing the entrance exam for the May 2022 tournament is 24-year-old Hotaka Suyama, the first ever student of the elite University of Tokyo
, abbreviated as or UTokyo, is a public research university located in Bunkyō, Tokyo, Japan. Established in 1877, the university was the first Imperial University and is currently a Top Type university of the Top Global University Project by ...
to join professional sumo.
*25: The ''banzuke
A , officially called is a document listing the rankings of professional sumo wrestlers published before each official tournament (''honbasho''). The term can also refer to the rankings themselves. The document is normally released about two w ...
'' for the May tournament is released by the Sumo Association. There are few changes in ''san'yaku
The following words are terms used in sumo wrestling in Japan.
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'', with January 2021 ''makuuchi
, or , is the top division of the six divisions of professional sumo. Its size is fixed at 42 wrestlers (''rikishi''), ordered into five ranks according to their ability as defined by their performance in previous tournaments.
This is the on ...
'' champion Daieishō returning to ''komusubi
, or , is the top division of the six divisions of professional sumo. Its size is fixed at 42 wrestlers (''rikishi''), ordered into five ranks according to their ability as defined by their performance in previous tournaments.
This is the on ...
'' after competing at that rank earlier this year. Former '' ōzeki'' Takayasu, who had been in contention for the March championship until losing to ''sekiwake
, or , is the top division of the six divisions of professional sumo. Its size is fixed at 42 wrestlers (''rikishi''), ordered into five ranks according to their ability as defined by their performance in previous tournaments.
This is the on ...
'' Wakatakakage
is a Japanese professional sumo wrestler from Fukushima. He made his debut in March 2017 and reached the top ''makuuchi'' division in November 2019. He wrestles for Arashio stable, where he is a stablemate of his older brothers Wakatakamoto and ...
in a playoff
The playoffs, play-offs, postseason or finals of a sports league are a competition played after the regular season by the top competitors to determine the league champion or a similar accolade. Depending on the league, the playoffs may be eithe ...
, is promoted to the top ''maegashira
, or , is the top division of the six divisions of professional sumo. Its size is fixed at 42 wrestlers (''rikishi''), ordered into five ranks according to their ability as defined by their performance in previous tournaments.
This is the on ...
'' rank. There are no new promotions from ''jūryō
Professional sumo as administered by the Japan Sumo Association is divided into six ranked divisions. Wrestlers are promoted and demoted within and between these divisions based on the merit of their win–loss records in official tournaments. For ...
'' to ''makuuchi'', but three wrestlers return to the top division: Ōhō
was a after ''Eiryaku'' and before ''Chōkan.'' This period spanned the years from September 1161 through March 1163. The reigning emperor was .
Change of era
* January 28, 1161 : The new era name was created to mark an event or a number of ...
returns after just being demoted, Midorifuji returns after five tournaments, and Azumaryū returns after 11 tournaments.
Former ''ōzeki'' Asanoyama
is a Japanese professional sumo wrestler from Toyama Prefecture. He wrestles for Takasago stable. He debuted in sumo in March 2016 and made his ''makuuchi'' debut in September 2017. His highest rank has been ''ōzeki''. He has earned six spec ...
is ranked at ''makushita
Professional sumo as administered by the Japan Sumo Association is divided into six ranked divisions. Wrestlers are promoted and demoted within and between these divisions based on the merit of their win–loss records in official tournaments. For ...
'' 42 for his final suspended tournament. He was handed a six-tournament ban in June 2021 for violating COVID-19
Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is a contagious disease caused by a virus, the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). The first known case was COVID-19 pandemic in Hubei, identified in Wuhan, China, in December ...
protocols and for covering up his violations to investigators.
May
*3: Top rank-and-filer and former ''sekiwake
, or , is the top division of the six divisions of professional sumo. Its size is fixed at 42 wrestlers (''rikishi''), ordered into five ranks according to their ability as defined by their performance in previous tournaments.
This is the on ...
'' Ichinojō is withdrawn from the May 2022 tournament after testing positive for COVID-19
Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is a contagious disease caused by a virus, the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). The first known case was COVID-19 pandemic in Hubei, identified in Wuhan, China, in December ...
.
*13: ''Maegashira'' Tamawashi defeats Terunofuji
, lead=yes), is a Mongolian-born naturalised-Japanese professional sumo wrestler. Wrestling for the Isegahama stable, he entered professional sumo in January 2011 and took the second division ''jūryō'' championship in his debut as a ''sekitori ...
in their scheduled match, becoming the first sumo wrestler to earn three consecutive ''kinboshi
is a notation used in professional sumo wrestling to record a lower-ranked (''maegashira'') wrestler's victory over a ''yokozuna''.
It is believed that the term stems from the usage of the terms ''shiroboshi'' (lit: white star) to designate a b ...
'' against the same ''yokozuna'' since Daigō (ex- Wakamisugi) achieved the feat in 1965.
*22: Four wrestlers entered the final day of the May 2022 tournament with the chance to win the Emperor's Cup
, commonly known as or also Japan FA Cup is a Japanese football competition. It has the longest tradition of any football match in Japan, dating back to 1921, before the formation of the J.League, Japan Football League and their predecessor, J ...
, but in the end it was sole ''yokozuna
, or , is the top division of the six divisions of professional sumo. Its size is fixed at 42 wrestlers (''rikishi''), ordered into five ranks according to their ability as defined by their performance in previous tournaments.
This is the on ...
'' Terunofuji
, lead=yes), is a Mongolian-born naturalised-Japanese professional sumo wrestler. Wrestling for the Isegahama stable, he entered professional sumo in January 2011 and took the second division ''jūryō'' championship in his debut as a ''sekitori ...
(12–3) who lifted the trophy for the seventh time in his career. The Mongolian clinched his first ''yūshō'' of the year with a win over '' ōzeki'' Mitakeumi
is a Japanese professional sumo wrestler from Agematsu, Nagano. He is in the Dewanoumi stable. He is a pusher thruster-type wrestler. A former amateur champion at Toyo University, he made his professional debut in March 2015, reaching the top '' ...
in the tournament's final match. The co-leader entering the final day, rank-and-filer Takanoshō (11–4), was defeated in his bout by Sadanoumi
is a Japanese professional sumo wrestler from Kumamoto. He made his debut in 2003, and reached the top ''makuuchi'' division eleven years later in 2014. His highest rank has been ''maegashira'' 1. He has been a runner-up in one tournament, an ...
(11–4); the two, along with ''komusubi
, or , is the top division of the six divisions of professional sumo. Its size is fixed at 42 wrestlers (''rikishi''), ordered into five ranks according to their ability as defined by their performance in previous tournaments.
This is the on ...
'' Daieishō (11–4), would have participated in a four-way playoff
The playoffs, play-offs, postseason or finals of a sports league are a competition played after the regular season by the top competitors to determine the league champion or a similar accolade. Depending on the league, the playoffs may be eithe ...
if Terunofuji had lost. The three ''ōzeki'' had poor performances, with Takakeishō (8–7) the only one able to secure a winning record
In sports, a winning percentage is the fraction of games or matches a team or individual has won. The statistic is commonly used in standings or rankings to compare teams or individuals. It is defined as wins divided by the total number of matc ...
. The other two ''ōzeki'', Mitakeumi (6–9) and Shōdai (5–10), will enter the next tournament in Nagoya
is the largest city in the Chūbu region, the fourth-most populous city and third most populous urban area in Japan, with a population of 2.3million in 2020. Located on the Pacific coast in central Honshu, it is the capital and the most pop ...
at demotion-threatened '' kadoban'' status. All three runners-up in the top division are awarded '' sanshō'' prizes, with both Daieishō and Takanoshō awarded the ''Shukun-shō'' (Outstanding Performance prize) and Sadanoumi awarded the ''Kantō-shō'' (Fighting Spirit prize). In the second-highest ''jūryō
Professional sumo as administered by the Japan Sumo Association is divided into six ranked divisions. Wrestlers are promoted and demoted within and between these divisions based on the merit of their win–loss records in official tournaments. For ...
'' division the winner is Terunofuji's stablemate, 25-year-old (11–4), who secured his fourth championship in sumo with a playoff victory over former ''maegashira'' Daiamami
is a Japanese professional sumo wrestler from Tatsugō, Kagoshima. After a successful amateur career, he turned professional in January 2016, making the top ''makuuchi'' division in November of the following year. His highest rank has been ' ...
.
*25: The Sumo Association announces three new promotions to the ''jūryō
Professional sumo as administered by the Japan Sumo Association is divided into six ranked divisions. Wrestlers are promoted and demoted within and between these divisions based on the merit of their win–loss records in official tournaments. For ...
'' division. One is , who recently joined the stable
A stable is a building in which livestock, especially horses, are kept. It most commonly means a building that is divided into separate stalls for individual animals and livestock. There are many different types of stables in use today; the ...
run by former ''ōzeki'' Gōeidō and will take the new ''shikona
A is a sumo wrestler's ring name. The tradition of ring names in sumo dates back to the Edo period, where they were used as a means to attract customers and hide the identities of the ''rikishi''.
Like standard Japanese names, a ''shikona'' co ...
'' of Gōnoyama (豪ノ山) in the next tournament. The other two new promotions are , who entered sumo in November 2021 as ''makushita tsukedashi
The following words are terms used in sumo wrestling in Japan.
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'' and most recently won the ''makushita
Professional sumo as administered by the Japan Sumo Association is divided into six ranked divisions. Wrestlers are promoted and demoted within and between these divisions based on the merit of their win–loss records in official tournaments. For ...
'' division championship, and 13-year sumo veteran . Hokuseihō will return to ''jūryō'' after competing in just one match at that rank in November 2021, suffering a ligament injury.
Former ''jūryō'' wrestlers and are among the retirements announced by the Sumo Association.
August
*The first '' jungyō'' (regional tours) since November 2019 are scheduled to be held on the following dates:
**5: Tachikawa, Tokyo
250px, Showa Memorial Park
is a city located in the western portion of Tokyo Metropolis, Japan. , the city had an estimated population of 184,383 in 93,428 households, and a population density of 7600 persons per km2. The total area of the cit ...
**6: Funabashi, Chiba
is a city located in Chiba Prefecture, Japan. , the city had an estimated population of 644,668 in 309,238 households and a population density of . The total area of the city is . It is the Greater Tokyo Area's 7th most populated city (after pa ...
**7: Saitama, Saitama
is the capital and the most populous city of Saitama Prefecture, Japan. Its area incorporates the former cities of Urawa, Ōmiya, Yono and Iwatsuki. It is a city designated by government ordinance. Being in the Greater Tokyo Area and lying 1 ...
**11: Koga, Ibaraki
is a city located in Ibaraki Prefecture, Japan. , the city had an estimated population of 138,446 in 56,097 households and a population density of 1120 persons per km². The percentage of the population aged over 65 was 28.98%. The total area of ...
**14: Kasukabe, Saitama
is a special city located in Saitama Prefecture, Japan. , the city had an estimated population of 233,278 in 108,328 households and a population density of . The total area of the city is . Kasukabe is famous for the production of , traditi ...
Deaths
*17 February: Former ''jūryō
Professional sumo as administered by the Japan Sumo Association is divided into six ranked divisions. Wrestlers are promoted and demoted within and between these divisions based on the merit of their win–loss records in official tournaments. For ...
'' and youth leader , aged 64, of an abdominal aortic aneurysm
Abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) is a localized enlargement of the abdominal aorta such that the diameter is greater than 3 cm or more than 50% larger than normal. They usually cause no symptoms, except during rupture. Occasionally, abdominal, ...
.
See also
*
*List of active sumo wrestlers
The following is an alphabetical list of all active professional sumo wrestlers in the top ''makuuchi'' division, and all those currently in lower divisions who have a Wikipedia article. Please refer to professional sumo divisions for more informa ...
*List of years in sumo
The following is a list of year in sumo articles listed in chronological order from the most recent. Each gives an overview of the happenings in sumo for each year listed. The highlights below refer only to top division championships.
2020s
* 202 ...
References
{{Years in sumo
Sumo by year
Sumo
is a form of competitive full-contact wrestling where a ''rikishi'' (wrestler) attempts to force his opponent out of a circular ring (''dohyō'') or into touching the ground with any body part other than the soles of his feet (usually by thr ...
2022 sport-related lists