Sumo Stomp! 2024 Haru Basho: Final day results, highlights and analysis
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Preview
The 2024 Grand Tournament of Sumo continues this Sunday (March 10) in Osaka and will continue for 15 straight days. This is your new home for all the results, along with some highlights and analysis of what all goes down.
The 2024 haru basho (Spring Tournament) is exciting because we have just heard that the often injured yokozuna Terunofuji (who won the January tournament) has confirmed he will be competing in Osaka. This means that the tournament will feature a yokozuna and possibly all four ozeki (the rank below yokozuna). Last year we had tournaments with a just a single ozeki (Takakeisho) representing the highest ranks of the sport.
For more reasons why this tournament is worth tuning into, check out my preview here.
This post will be updated each morning with results, highlights and analysis from the latest day of the competition. If you’d like alerts for when those updates happen (as well as access to my deep-dives on sumo technique, current affairs and history) please subscribe to Sumo Stomp! on Substack.
Banzuke
How To Watch
You can stream this tournament via the Abema TV app. Live sumo on Abema comes only with a paid subscription, which costs around $8 a month. The Abema app is entirely in Japanese with no English version. Matches can also be viewed on the official Grand Sumo app. This is also entirely in Japanese with no English version. The Grand Sumo app also features unavoidable spoilers.
NHK World on YouTube may broadcast the makuuchi match-ups on a 24 hour delay.
Alternative methods to watch sumo, both live and on demand, can be found on Twitch and YouTube (if you need any help there, shoot me a DM on Substack).
Results, Highlights and Analysis
Day 1
Results
Takerufuji def. Daimami via okuridashi (rear push out)*
Roga def. Endo via yorikiri (frontal force out)
Myogiryu def. Kitanowaka via hatakikomi (slap down)
Churanoumi def. Nishikifuji via oshidashi (frontal push out)
Ryuden def. Shimazuumi via uwatenage (over arm throw)
Sadanoumi def. Shonannoumi via yorikiri
Mitakeumi def. Ichiyamamoto via oshidashi
Shodai def. Kotoshoho via yorikiri*
Takayasu def. Hokutofuji via hatakikomi*
Onosho def. Tamawashi via oshidashi*
Kinbozan def. Gonoyama via uwatenage*
Onosato def. Tsurugisho via yorikiri
Hiradoumi def. Midorifuji via tsukidashi (frontal thrust out)
Tobizaru def. Takanosho via oshidashi*
Wakamotoharu def. Oho via oshidashi
Meisei def. Daieisho via tsukiotoshi (thrust down)*
Kotonowaka def. Atamifuji via hatakikomi*
Takakeisho def. Asanoyama via hatakikomi*
Ura def. Hoshoryu via katasukashi (under shoulder swing down)*
Abi def. Kirishima via hikiotoshi (hand pull down)*
Nishikigi def. Terunofuji via yorikiri*
*Must see bouts!
Analysis
What a start to the March tournament!
We finished Day 1 with three massive upsets. First Ura schooled Hoshoryu with a picture perfect katasukashi and then Abi fooled Kirishima with a wicked hikiotoshi. Then, Terunofuji was blocked and barged out by Nishikigi. These high profile losses mean the next two highest ranked wrestlers, Kotonowaka and Takakeisho, will start things off with a one win lead over their san’yaku rivals. Kotonowaka pulled down Atamifuji with ease and Takakeisho looked surprisingly spry in side-stepping Asanoyama.
Nishikigi’s win was his third over Terunofuji, and his second gold star victory. The last time he beat Terunofuji was at the Nagoya basho last year, where Nishikigi came close to competing for his first Emperor’s Cup. In last night’s bout he proved why he is such a tough match-up for the best wrestler currently in the game. Nishikigi is one of very few wrestlers (along with Kotonowaka) who can match Terunofuji for size. He’s also one of very few wrestlers (along with Shodai) who can match Terunofuji for strength. He may be the only other wrestler on the planet who can match Terunofuji for both size and strength.
On Day 1 Nishikigi also showed off his elite level defense. He was able to halt Terunofuji off the tachiai (which he does to everyone) and then prevented Terunofuji from finding a grip or lock on his arms while getting both hands on the yokozuna’s belt. With that grip, Nishikigi was able to counter Terunofuji’s attempts to budge him over the straw. Terunofuji looked frustrated as he tried to thrash Nishikigi around, but Nishikigi expertly rode those movements, while closing the gap with his feet, slowly edging Terunofuji to the boundary and then out.
Hoshoryu’s loss to Ura was a little baffling, given that Hoshoryu is the best grappler in the sport. Hoshoryu dunked on Ura in January for an emphatic throw down win. I wonder if this is another occasion where Hoshoryu took his opponent lightly and lacked a little focus. He looked a little slow off the tachiai with the popular pink-clad rikishi able to rise up to meet him. This meant Hoshoryu was unable to capitalize on Ura’s tendency to come in so low. In the clinch, Ura did a great job of circling away from Hoshoryu, while also locking up his shoulder. Hoshoryu failed to react quick enough to prevent the takedown (which is very rare for him).
Having seen his arch rival just drop a winnable bout on Day 1, maybe Kirishima got distracted and decided to take his opponent, Abi, too lightly. I certainly hope that’s not the case, given the fact that Abi has historically given Kirishima trouble.
Abi has scored a few wins off Kirishima that look just like this. Abi is a master at controlling space in the dohyo. Against Kirishima he used his long arms to create a wide distance between them and then he used his quick feet to turn the gap into a chasm, for Kirishima to fall through. In the past Kirishima has been able to block this trick, by attacking Abi’s arms off the tachiai, shrugging them off to the side and then attacking his chest.
This time Kirishima tried to block Abi’s hands by driving both his arms upwards, which was ineffective. I’m sure we’ll see him side swiping those arms next time they meet.
Other notable wins on the day include Takerufuji looking great in his makuuchi debut, he spun around Daiamami and shoved him out. Onosho also looked menacing as he responded to a Tamawashi false start with an extremely aggressive charge. And Tobizaru got a good win over Takanosho in predictably chaotic style.
Day 2
Results
Takerufuji def. Endo via yorikiri (frontal force out)
Myogiryu def. Daiamami via makiotoshi (twist down)*
Roga def. Kitanowaka via shitatenage (under arm throw)
Ryuden def. Nishikifuji via yorikiri*
Shonannoumi def. Churanoumi via yorikiri
Sadanoumi def. Shimazuumi via yoritaoshi (frontal crush out)
Ichiyamamoto def. Shodai via tsukidashi (frontal thrust out)*
Kotoshoho def. Mitakeumi via yorikiri
Onosho def. Hokutofuji via yorikiri*
Takayasu def. Tamawashi via uwatenage (over arm throw)*
Tsurugisho def. Kinbozan via yorikiri*
Onosato def. Gonoyama via yorikiri
Midorifuji def. Tobizaru via oshidashi (frontal push out)*
Takanosho def. Hiradoumi via oshidashi
Oho def. Daieisho via tsukidashi
Wakamotoharu def. Meisei via yoritaoshi
Atamifuji def. Atamifuji via yorikiri
Asanoyama def. Kotonowaka via oshidashi
Abi def. Takakeisho via uwatenage*
Hoshoryu def. Nishikigi via yorikiri*
Terunofuji def. Ura via oshidashi
*Must see bouts!
Analysis
Another day, another set of upsets.
Kirishima, the most skilled and creative wrestler in the sport, is now in an 0-2 hole after a strange loss to Atamifuji. Kirishima has owned Atamifuji on the dohyo in their very short history together, cruising past the youngster on route to an Emperor’s Cup win last year. In their previous two bouts Atamifuji looked nervous, maybe even frightened, to be facing an ozeki with a title on the line. He looked nervy this time around, too, but this time Kirishima didn’t take advantage.
In the clinch Kirishima went for an underarm throw, in a position he was very unlikely to succeed in. Atamifuji blocked that move, strongly, and was then able to parlay the position into a relatively simple force out. Even if Kirishima is able to rescue a good record out of this tournament, he’ll be scratching his head over why he gave away two wins to Abi and now Atamifuji.
The other big upsets were Asanoyama pushing out Kotonowaka and Abi skirting by Takakeisho.
Asanoyama is a beast, but he’s failed to deliver against the san’yaku. He took the fight to the usually unflappable Kotonowaka and was able to close the distance sharply and hurry him out. I got a little hint of a knee injury on Kotonowaka in this bout and I’m really hoping that’s not something that takes him out of the basho.
Takakeisho and Abi got into their typical slap fest. Either Takakeisho forced Abi back to the boundary or Abi lured him there. Either way, Takakeisho went for a last ditch dive to try and push Abi out the rest of the way. This was not a good move on someone as evasive as Abi. Abi was able to skip to the side and keep one foot in long enough to score the win. We’ve seen Takakeisho go for this dive in the past and it’s not a high percentage move for him. Rash decisions like this are what have cost Takakeisho championships in the past.
Terunofuji and Hoshoryu both got their first wins on Day 2. Terunofuji beat Ura in a win that looked exactly like the win he took over him in January. And Hoshoryu proved that his judo game is so dangerous that he can win bouts without even executing a throw. Against Nishikigi, the threat of a throw forced Nishikigi to keep circling away from Hoshoryu. Hoshoryu simply closed distance each time Nishikigi did this until they ran out of room.
Other great bouts this day saw Takayasu take down Tamawashi, Tsurugisho swing out Kinbozan and Onosato continue to impress (this time with a smothering win over Gonoyama).
I also really enjoyed Ichiyamamoto pushing out Shodai. Ichiyamamoto’s shoves have looked a little weak in the past, but he really drove through his opponent on these ones.
Day 3
Results
Takerufuji def. Roga via uwatenage (over arm throw)*
Endo def. Myogiryu via yorikiri (frontal force out)
Nishikifuji def. Daiamami via tottari (arm bar throw)
Kitanowaka def. Ryuden via yorikiri*
Churanoumi def. Shimazuumi via uwatedashinage (pulling over arm throw)*
Shonannoumi def. Ichiyamamoto via kotenage (arm lock throw)*
Mitakeumi def. Sadanoumi via yorikiri (torinaoshi [after immediate rematch])*
Shodai def. Hokutofuji via oshidashi (frontal push out)
Takayasu def. Kotoshoho via yorikiri*
Onosho def. Kinbozan via yorikiri*
Gonoyama def. Tamawashi via hatakikomi (slap down)
Tsurugisho def. Midorifuji via hatakikomi
Onosato def. Hiradoumi via oshidashi
Tobizaru def. Oho via hatakikomi*
Wakamotoharu def. Takanosho via oshidashi
Abi def. Daieisho via oshidashi
Hoshoryu def. Atamifuji via yorikiri
Ura def. Kirishima via tsukiotoshi (thrust down)*
Kotonowaka def. Nishikigi via tsukidashi (frontal thrust out)
Takakeisho def. Meisei via sukuinage (beltless arm throw)*
Terunofuji def. Asanoyama via yorikiri*
*Must see bouts!
Analysis
What is wrong with Kirishima?
The highest ranked ozeki is now 0-3, after falling (literally) to Ura. Kirishima came into this bout with a seven bout winning streak against Ura. And during their bout it looked like Kirishima, at one point, had Ura dead to rights on the boundary. However, instead of advancing and shoving out the Peach Prince, he dove forwards and landed flat on his face.
We have to give a lot of credit to Ura for this stunning turn of events, though. Kirishima’s flop forwards came after Ura executed an amazing feint, where he made it look like he was going to dive in low on Kirishima. Kirishima changed levels, looking to hit Ura lower and blast him back. But Ura followed the feint with a deft side-step to earn the victory.
This is a fantastic win for Ura, who is now 2-1 with wins over two ozeki. This shows real development from Ura. He struggled mightily against elite wrestlers in January (so much so I wrote a deep dive about it).
Making things worse for Kirishima is that Terunofuji, Hoshoryu, Takakeisho and Kotonowaka all won on Day 3. Kirishima is now at risk of being a total bystander in this tournament.
Terunofuji got to 2-1 on Day 3 after surviving a very tough challenge (and loose belt) from Asanoyama. Hoshoryu expertly marshalled out Atamifuji. Kotonowaka out muscled Nishikigi and Takakeisho brought down Meisei in a fun brawl.
It’s still very early, but our leading pack of wrestlers who are 3-0 features six men. Those are Wakamotoharu, Abi, Onosato, Onosho, Takayasu and Takerufuji.
Wakamotoharu has been no nonsense this basho, looking very strong in marching out each of his opponents. This day he was able to push out Takanosho.
Abi has gotten to 3-0 despite facing only san’yaku opponents. He stunned Kirishima on Day 1, tossed Takakeisho on Day 2 and on Day 3 he ran through Daieisho. This might be one of those tournaments where everything goes well for ‘machine-gun arm’.
Onosato is looking very good in only his second ever top division tournament. He beat a typically spirited Hiradoumi on Day 3. So far all of Onosato’s opponents are seeing him for the first time. So I still get the vibe that Onosato is like a rookie pitcher with hitters willing to swing at his pitches just to see what he’s got.
Onosho and Takayasu are off to their usual hot starts, beating up on wrestlers they should be ranked above. Takerufuji looks a very interesting prospect thus far. This day he met Roga and decided to hit him with a henka. Though, it was a very technical henka, utilizing a strong, immediate grip on the belt.
Day 4
Results
Takerufuji def. Myogiryu via oshidashi (frontal push out)
Roga def. Daiamami via uwatenage (over arm throw)*
Endo def. Kitanowaka via yorikiri (frontal force out)*
Ryuden def. Churanoumi via yorikiri
Nishikifuji def. Shimazuumi via fusen (default)
Sadanoumi def. Ichiyamamoto via oshidashi*
Shonannoumi def. Mitakeumi via tsukiotoshi (thrust down)*
Kotoshoho def. Hokutofuji via hatakikomi (slap down)
Shodai def. Takayasu via oshidashi*
Tamawashi def. Kinbozan via oshitaoshi (frontal crush out)*
Gonoyama def. Onosho via tsukiotoshi (thrust down)*
Onosato def. Midorifuji via oshidashi
Hiradoumi def. Tsurugisho via uwatedashinage (pulling over arm throw)
Atamifuji def. Tobizaru via kimedashi (arm barring force out)*
Daieisho def. Nishikigi via tsukidashi (frontal thrust out)
Abi def. Wakamotoharu via tsukidashi
Takakeisho def. Ura via yorikiri
Hoshoryu def. Oho via hikiotoshi (hand pull down)
Asanoyama def. Kirishima via yorikiri
Kotonowaka def. Takanosho via kotenage (arm lock throw)*
Meisei def. Terunofuji via yorikiri*
*Must see bouts!
Analysis
We need to talk about Abi.
Sumo’s Troll King reached 4-0 today with an emphatic win over Wakamotoharu. Abi has a great record against Wakamotoharu, since his game is about creating range and Wakamotoharu’s strength is being in close. In this match, Abi put everything into his first three thrusts and that was enough to have Wakamotoharu dazed and stepping out over the boundary. Abi’s one-dimensional spamming attack has been on point so far this tournament and if he keeps this groove going, we might see him fighting for a cup at the end of this.
Abi’s win knocked Wakamotoharu’s record back to 3-1. At 4-0 Abi is joined by youngsters Onosato and Takerufuji. Onosato ran over Midorifuji (who seemed too proud to try a henka). Takerufuji continued to fool vets past their prime, with a push out of former sekiwake Myogiryu.
The other big stories of the day were the falterings of Kirishima (again) and Terunofuji.
Kirishima was forced out by Asanoyama (who is very good, but someone Kirishima has handled just fine in the past). It looks like Kirishima’s head is not in this tournament. I wouldn’t be surprised if he stepped away for the rest of the basho, viewing a 0-5-10 and a long rest as more favourable than a bruising 7-8.
Terunofuji lost to Meisei, one of the few wrestlers who was able to take a win off him last year. Meisei got the win exactly like he did last year, with a quick and powerful tachiai and an all out attack that didn’t let Terunofuji get comfortable or give him enough time to get set and push back.
The rest of the san’yaku notched wins. Kotonowaka and Hoshoryu came through tough tests versus Takanosho and Oho. And Takakeisho got a routine win over Ura, shoving him back like it was a butsukari drill.
Other matches of note were Atamifuji getting Tobizaru out with a painful kimedashi (I’m sure his stablemate Terunofuji appreciated that) and Daieisho finally getting a win with a quick push out of Nishikigi.
Injuries started to bite on Day 4. Shimazuumi was kyujo (absent) due to a calf injury. Kinbozan looked like he got hurt after Tamawashi threw him down to the concrete. And Tsurugisho went down like he was shot by a sniper, after his heavily bandaged knee buckled under Hiradoumi. He needed a wheelchair to leave the dohyo.
Day 5
Results
Takerufuji def. Tokihayate via oshidashi (frontal push out)
Daiamami def. Kitanowaka via kimedashi (arm barring force out)
Nishikifuji def. Endo via oshidashi*
Churanoumi def. Roga via okuridashi (rear push out)
Shonannoumi def. Myogiryu via yorikiri (frontal force out)
Ryuden def. Sadanoumi via uwatenage (over arm throw)*
Mitakeumi def. Shodai via yorikiri
Ichiyamamoto def. Kotoshoho via tsukidashi (frontal thrust out)
Takayasu def. Onosho via uwatedashinage (pulling over arm throw)*
Hokutofuji def. Tamawashi via oshidashi*
Gonoyama def. Tsurugisho via fusen (default)
Onosato def. Kinbozan via fusen
Hiradoumi def. Tobizaru via yorikiri*
Midorifuji def. Takanosho via oshidashi*
Abi def. Nishikigi via tsukiotoshi (thrust down)*
Daieisho def. Wakamotoharu via hikiotoshi (hand pull down)*
Ura def. Kotonowaka via katasukashi (under shoulder swing down)*
Atamifuji def. Takakeisho via oshidashi*
Hoshoryu def. Asanoyama via shitatenage (under arm throw)*
Kirishima def. Meisei via hatakikomi (slap down)*
Oho def. Terunofuji via yorikiri*
*Must see bouts!
Analysis
Oh you wanted more upsets?
This tournament continues to deliver the unexpected with more big names falling to less heralded rank and filers.
The biggest upset was Oho out muscling Terunofuji for a quick yorikiri win. The 24-year-old Oho is currently fighting at his highest ever rank (M3) and this was his first time ever facing a yokozuna. He’s been fed a murderers’ row of opponents to start this tournament (Wakamotoharu, Daieisho, Tobizaru, Hoshoryu, Terunofuji), so to be 2-3 at this point is excellent for the young Otake product. He’ll face Kirishima tomorrow.
The other upsets this day included Atamifuji beating (and bloodying) Takakeisho. Takakeisho had owned Atamifuji in their prior match-ups, which included a play-off to win last year’s aki basho.
And Ura pulled off another upset, too. He beat Kotonowaka with a picture perfect katasukashi (a move Kotonowaka likes to go to himself). That win continues to reverse Ura’s narrative that he can’t hang with the elite rikishi. Ura has now gone 3-1 against the ozeki this tournament. Amazing stuff from the Peach Prince.
The other ozeki scored wins this day. Kirishima finally got a W, using a quick and instinctive slapdown on Meisei. Hoshoryu threw Asanoyama (again) after Asanoyama tried driving him backwards while not heeding Hoshoryu’s knee position (again).
Abi continues to lead the way in this tournament. He got to 5-0 with a sneaky win over Nishikigi. Nishikigi weathered Abi’s harite storm and drove him back to the straw. However, Abi, slippery like an eel, was able to squirt out of Nishikigi’s way and hang in the air long enough to earn the win.
Abi remains joined in the lead by Onosato and Takerufuji. Onosato benefited from a default win over the absent Kinbozan (who has a spine injury that requires rest) and Takerufuji beat juryo call-up Tokihayate, continuing to prove he’s too good to be fighting the bottom maegashira ranks and below.
Other notable wins included Takayasu playing matador to beat Onosho and go up 4-1, Hokutofuji getting his first win of the tournament with a powerful display against Tamawashi and Hiradoumi beating Tobizaru in a fun brawl.
Day 6
Results
Daiamami def. Takarafuji via tsukiotoshi (thrust down)
Nishikifuji def. Roga via yorikiri (frontal force out)
Myogiryu def. Ryuden via yorikiri
Takerufuji def. Churanoumi via yorikiri
Shonannoumi def. Endo via kimedashi (arm barring force out)*
Sadanoumi def. Kitanowaka via uwatehineri (twisting over arm throw)*
Ichiyamamoto def. Hokutofuji via uwatenage (over arm throw)
Onosho def. Shodai via yorikiri
Mitakeumi def. Takayasu via oshidashi (frontal push out)*
Tamawashi def. Kotoshoho via oshidashi
Gonoyama def. Midorifuji via oshidashi
Onosato def. Meisei via oshidashi*
Atamifuji def. Asanoyama via uwatenage*
Daieisho def. Ura via oshidashi
Wakamotoharu def. Nishikigi via yoritaoshi (frontal crush out)
Kirishima def. Oho via hikiotoshi (hand pull down)
Kotonowaka def. Abi via oshidashi*
Takakeisho def. Hiradoumi via oshidashi
Tobizaru def. Hoshoryu via yorikiri*
Takanosho def. Terunofuji via yorikiri
*Must see bouts!
Analysis
Well my prediction of Terunofuji being the man to beat for this one was way off. After a pretty lacklustre effort versus Takanosho he is 2-4 this basho and likely too far back of the leaders to mount a serious challenge for the cup this month. That was Takanosho’s second gold star win over Terunofuji (sixth overall).
Tomorrow Terunofuji is scheduled to face Tobizaru, whom he detests. He’s only going to turn up for that fight if he is absolutely confident he will win. If he has any sort of injury or lack of belief, I expect him to withdraw and sit out the rest of the tournament.
Tobizaru, who is probably itching at the idea of taking on a possibly weakened Terunofuji, had one of the bouts of the day on Day 6. He took the fight to Hoshoryu and did an excellent job of preventing Hoshoryu from getting side-on against him (which is what Hoshoryu needs to execute his judo throws). After keeping Hoshoryu square to him, Tobizaru was able to close the distance and force Hoshoryu back to the straw and out.
The other ozeki all won this day. Takakeisho overwhelmed the young Hiradoumi (who was facing him for the first time). Kirishima got lucky after Oho lost his footing. And Kotonowaka handed Abi his first loss of the basho. Kotonowaka got the win by standing up to Abi’s strikes, deflecting his arms away and patiently staying in the pocket before he could slip one of Abi’s advances and push him out.
Our leaders now are the two young guns, Onosato and Takerufuji. Takerufuji blasted through Churanoumi (showing some nice variety to his game). And Onosato beat Meisei, a definite upgrade on his previous opponents this tournament.
Behind those leaders are a couple of wrestlers on 5-1 and a ton at 4-2. It will be interesting to see how long Onosato and Takerufuji can stay near the top once the match-making shifts.
Day 7
Results
Tohakuryu def. Endo via hatakikomi (slap down)
Nishikifuji def. Myogiryu via yorikiri (frontal force out)
Daiamami def. Churanoumi via yorikiri
Roga def. Ryuden via uwatehineri (twisting over arm throw)*
Takerufuji def. Shonannoumi via yorikiri*
Shodai def. Kitanowaka via yorikiri
Sadanoumi def. Kotoshoho via yoritaoshi (frontal crush out)*
Mitakeumi def. Hokutofuji via oshidashi (frontal push out)
Takayasu def. Ichiyamamoto via oshitaoshi (frontal push down)
Onosho def. Onosato via sukuinage (beltless arm throw)*
Midorifuji def. Tamawashi via hikiotoshi (hand pull down)
Hiradoumi def. Gonoyama via uwatedashinage (pulling over arm throw)*
Oho def. Atamifuji via hatakikomi*
Wakamotoharu def. Ura via oshidashi
Asanoyama def. Daieisho via oshidashi
Hoshoryu def. Abi via oshitaoshi
Takanosho def. Kirishima via oshidashi
Kotonowaka def. Meisei via kotenage (arm lock throw)*
Takakeisho def. Nishikigi via tsukiotoshi (thrust down)*
Tobizaru def. Terunofuji via fusen (default)
*Must see bouts!
Analysis
Saw that coming.
Terunofuji pulled out of his Day 7 bout with Tobizaru. There was no way Terunofuji was going to fight Tobizaru if he felt there was any possibility that his hated rival could score a win over him (and thus earn a valuable gold star bonus). It will be interesting to see if Terunofuji returns at all this basho. If he comes back tomorrow or a few days later, it would really add evidence to this being a spite absence.
Takerufuji is now the sole leader of this race. He went to 7-0 after beating a much improved Shonannoumi. Onosato failed to join him after he fell to Onosho. Onosho was the first man to beat Onosato in the January tournament and, from the looks of this bout, he really wanted to maintain his winning streak over the much hyped prospect.
After those two there are a number of wrestlers on 5-2. Those include Abi, Hoshoryu, Takakeisho and Kotonowaka.
Abi looked like he rolled his ankle in a quick loss to Hoshoryu. Takakeisho pulled off a smart thrust down on Nishikigi and Kotonowaka threw down Meisei with ease. With Terunofuji and Kirishima (who lost to Takanosho) almost certainly out of the running for this tournament, Hoshoryu, Takakeisho and Kotonowaka should all feel confident in getting a chance to lift their first Emperor’s Cup of the year.
I think it would be wise to keep an eye on Wakamotoharu, though. He got to 5-2 with a win over Ura on Day 7.
Day 8
Results
Mitoryu def. Roga via kotenage (arm lock throw)
Takerufuji def. Ryuden via oshidashi (frontal push out)
Churanoumi def. Myogiryu via okuridashi (rear push out)*
Shonannoumi def. Kitanowaka via oshidashi
Ichiyamamoto def. Endo via hatakikomi (slap down)*
Daiamami def. Shodai via yorikiri (frontal force out)*
Mitakeumi def. Nishikifuji via oshitaoshi (frontal push down)
Sadanoumi def. Hokutofuji via uwatenage (over arm throw)*
Kotoshoho def. Onosho via hatakikomi
Gonoyama def. Takayasu via hatakikomi*
Kinbozan def. Midorifuji via oshidashi
Onosato def. Tamawashi via oshidashi*
Meisei def. Hiradoumi via oshidashi
Abi def. Ura via oshidashi*
Asanoyama def. Nishikigi via yorikiri
Daieisho def. Atamifuji via hikiotoshi (hand pull down)*
Takakeisho def. Oho via oshidashi*
Hoshoryu def. Takanosho via oshidashi
Tobizaru def. Kirishima via yorikiri*
Kotonowaka def. Wakamotoharu via oshidashi
*Must see bouts!
Analysis
Takerufuji keeps winning. On Day 8 he somewhat coasted past Ryuden to stay undefeated this basho and stay one win ahead of Onosato and two wins ahead a slew of more recognized names.
Takerufuji has shown some good variety to his game, which mostly relies on a very tight, compact and technically sound pushing/forcing arsenal. He will be getting a big test tomorrow when he faces Abi (who thrusted Ura into the second row this day). Given that he is a little undersized, it will be interesting to see if he can hold his own against a large fighter like Abi (and then other big folks like Kotonowaka, Daieisho, Takakeisho, etc. if he keeps winning).
Onosato was able to keep the pressure on Takerufuji with a win over Tamawashi (who put up a good fight).
Kirishima lost again on Day 8. Tobizaru was all over him throughout the bout, forcing Kirishima into pure defensive mode. While he was backing up Kirishima completely lost sight of where he was in the ring and stepped outside.
Takakeisho, Hoshoryu and Kotonowaka all won on Day 8 and, at this point, they seem like the most legit challengers for this month’s Emperor’s Cup.
Day 9
Results
Myogiryu def. Tomokaze via oshidashi (frontal push out)
Ryuden def. Endo via yorikiri (frontal force out)*
Churanoumi def. Sadanoumi via tsukiotoshi (thrust down)*
Daiamami def. Ichiyamamoto via yorikiri (frontal force out)
Roga def. Mitakeumi via yorikiri*
Kotoshoho def. Kitanowaka via tsukiotoshi*
Takayasu def. Nishikifuji via oshidashi
Shonannoumi def. Onosho via oshidashi
Hokutofuji def. Kinbozan via yorikiri
Gonoyama def. Shodai via oshidashi*
Tamawashi def. Hiradoumi via oshidashi
Oho def. Takanosho via oshidashi
Meisei def. Atamifuji via yorikiri
Ura def. Asanoyama via sukuinage (beltless arm throw)*
Takerufuji def. Abi via oshidashi*
Onosato def. Wakamotoharu via yorikiri*
Kotonowaka def. Daieisho via oshidashi
Takakeisho def. Tobizaru via oshidashi*
Midorifuji def. Hoshoryu via katasukashi (under shoulder swing down)*
Kirishima def. Nishikigi via yorikiri
*Must see bouts!
Analysis
The kids might have taken over this tournament. Takerufuji and Onosato both kept winning on Day 8, doing so against almost elite opposition.
Takerufuji passed the Abi test on his first attempt. The stocky top division debutante was able to close on the rangy Abi and not allow the komusubi to push him back and create distance. From there Takerufuji made everything look rather easy, as he advanced and forced Abi to run out of room and break the boundary.
Onosato came up against Wakamotoharu and blitzed him with what has become his trademark strong, rushing tachiai. Wakamotoharu did all he good to stay in, digging his heels into the straw. However, Onosato was able to eventually get him out. It was quite amazing that Wakamotoharu held on as long as he did.
Behind those two youngsters are the more expected names of Takakeisho and Kotonowaka. Takakeisho beat Tobizaru thanks to some heavy slaps that seemed to rock the Flying Monkey and put him into a position that was easy for Keisho to shove him out.
Kotonowaka showed off his strength against Daieisho, shoving out the shover in a few seconds.
The best finishes of the day came from Midorifuji and Ura.
Midorifuji used his quickness to surprise Hoshoryu and catch him with his preferred katasukashi move.
And Ura was in trouble against Asanoyama before he pulled off an incredible sukuinage along the edge.
Day 10
Results
Kitanowaka def. Kagayaki via hatakikomi*
Daiamami def. Ryuden via yoritaoshi (frontal crush out)*
Ichiyamamoto def. Nishikifuji via tskuidashi (frontal thrust out)
Shodai def. Roga via oshidashi (frontal push out)
Myogiryu def. Hokutofuji via yorikiri (frontal force out)
Onosho def. Sadanoumi via yorikiri
Takyasu def. Shonannoumi via tsukiotoshi (thrust down)*
Kinbozan def. Endo via yorikiri
Tamawashi def. Churanoumi via kimetaoshi (arm barring force down)*
Midorifuji def. Kotoshoho via katasukashi (under shoulder swing down)*
Takerufuji def. Onosato via oshidashi*
Gonoyama def. Tobizaru via fusen (default)
Atamifuji def. Takanosho via hatakikomi (slap down)
Asanoyama def. Meisei via uwatenage (over arm throw)*
Mitakeumi def. Abi via sukuinage (beltless arm throw)
Ura def. Nishikigi via oshidashi*
Hiradoumi def. Kirishima via shitatenage (under arm throw)*
Kotonowaka def. Oho via yorikiri*
Daieisho def. Takakeisho via tsukiotoshi*
Hoshoryu def. Wakamotoharu via uwatenage*
*Must see bouts!
Analysis
Takerufuji and Onosato met on Day 10 and it was the makuuchi rookie who came away victorious, handing the sophomore an oshidashi loss. Takerufuji now moves to 10-0. This is already an incredible achievement for the 24-year-old. Anything more than that is astonishing. And if he wins the tournament, well that would be historic.
Takerufuji got his tenth win through pushing power and I’m quite amazed that he was able to trump Onosato in that department. Takerufuji is so good at tightening and narrowing his body so all his force is going in a very defined direction. That pressure point style of pushing was enough to put Onosato into the first row. Takerufuji slipped at the end of the bout, but seemed to be walking to the back OK.
Takerufuji’s closest challenger for the cup, along with Onosato, is Kotonowaka; who has barely put a foot wrong this tournament.
He took on Oho on Day 10 and was both strong and nimble, in swiping Oho across his body and then driving him out for the yorikiri win.
Back of those three are Hoshoryu and Takakeisho. Hoshoryu beat Wakamotoharu with a henka, which elicited some grumbling from the crowd. Takakeisho lost after a ferocious shoving battle with Daieisho.
Other notables from this day were Kirishima faltering again. He had a close battle with Hiradoumi, but seemed to be always on the back foot. After he ran out of space Kirishima tried a last ditch throw (from a very poor position) and was countered and send down into Takakeisho’s lap. Asanoyama and Meisei had a heck of a back and forth battle before Asanoyama was able to score a big throw. And Mitakeumi stuffed an Abi henka attempt and speared him off the dohyo. Abi is 1-4 after a hot start to this basho.
Tobizaru did not make it to his bout with Gonoyama this day. He is out with an illness. His brother missed a few days in juryo earlier this month for the same reason.
Day 11
Results
Roga def. Myogiryu via yorikiri (frontal force out)
Nishikifuji def. Oshoma via oshidashi (frontal push out)
Ichiyamamoto def. Churanoumi via hatakikomi (slap down)
Kotoshoho def. Daiamami via sukuinage (beltess arm throw)*
Hokutofuji def. Endo via tsukiotoshi (thrust down)
Takayasu def. Sadanoumi via uwatenage (over arm throw)*
Tamawashi def. Ryuden via yorikiri*
Kinbozan def. Kitanowaka via yorikiri
Gonoyama def. Mitakeumi via tsukidashi (frontal thrust out)*
Midorifuji def. Shodai via katasukashi (under shoulder swing down)*
Hiradoumi def. Onosho via tsukiotoshi*
Tobizaru def. Meisei via yoritaoshi (frontal crush out)*
Asanoyama def. Oho via yorikiri
Atamifuji def. Ura via tsuridashi (frontal lift out)*
Takanosho def. Nishikigi via yorikiri
Abi def. Shonannoumi via oshidashi
Hoshoryu def. Daieisho via tsukiotoshi*
Wakamotoharu def. Kirishima via yorikiri
Takerufuji def. Kotnowaka via yorikiri*
Onosato def. Takakeisho via oshidashi*
*Must see bouts!
Analysis
Wow.
I keep waiting for Takerufuji to get exposed against a much higher ranked opponent and it keeps not happening. On Day 11 he beat Kotonowaka, someone who has been one of the best rikishi in the sport over the past 18 months. And someone who had been looking great this tournament.
Takerufuji seems immune to pressure and the reputations of others, though. Against Kotonowaka he got another one of his quick starts off the tachiai and met Kotonowaka chest to chest. Takerufuji immediately started hand fighting to make sure Kotonowaka could not get his belt or shoulders. He then jumped back to make space, forcing Kotonowaka to lean too far forwards and waste precious milliseconds righting himself. Once he had created that space, Takerufuji got his hands in Kotonowaka’s armpits and started driving back. Kotonowaka tried to land an uwatenage at the boundary, but Takerufuji was too strong and compact to be moved like that. Astonishing stuff from the rookie. He’ll face Hoshoryu tomorrow. And, given what we’ve seen, you have to give him a good chance of winning that, too.
Hoshoryu came through the bout of the day versus Daieisho to remain in striking distance of Takerufuji. He was drawn into a thrusting battle with Daieisho, who was doing a great job of keeping his belt away from the judo master. However, Daieisho’s attempts to be more mobile than usual bit him as the bout progressed. I think his careening to the clay was due to a slip and that Hoshoryu can count himself a little lucky to still have a shot at the title this month.
Onosato was able to stay closest to Takerufuji, beating Takakeisho (and thus likely eliminating that ozeki from title contention). Onosato used his size and speed advantage over his more experienced foe and was able to prevent Takakeisho from sitting down on his thrusts. When Takakeisho started backpeddling for space, Onosato’s long arms found him easily and got him into the first row.
Other notable results from Day 11 are Kirishima getting his make-koshi against Wakamotoharu (someone he has a great record against and trains with often during the off-season), Midorifuji landing his third katasukashi in a row (this time over Shodai) and Tobizaru returning from illness to win a wild one over Meisei.
Day 12
Results
Bushozan def. Churanoumi via oshidashi (frontal push out)
Kitanowaka def. Ichiyamamoto via tsukitaoshi (frontal thrust down)
Sadanoumi def. Daiamami via yoritaoshi (frontal crush out) after torinaoshi (immediate rematch)*
Shodai def. Ryuden via yorikiri (frontal force out)
Hokutofuji def. Roga via hikiotoshi (hand pull down)
Endo def. Kotoshoho via hatakikomi (slap down)
Onosho def. Mitakeumi via yorikiri
Kinbozan def. Myogiryu via yorikiri
Nishkifuji def. Tamawashi via oshidashi*
Shonannoumi def. Tobizaru via hatakikomi*
Hiradoumi def. Oho via oshidashi
Ura def. Meisei via okuritaoshi (rear push down)*
Asanoyama def. Takanosho via yorikiri*
Abi def. Takayasu via oshidashi
Atamifuji def. Nishikigi via hatakikomi*
Gonoyama def. Daieisho via hatakikomi
Wakamotoharu def. Takakeisho via yorikiri
Hoshoryu def. Takerufuji via kotenage (arm lock throw)*
Midorifuji def. Kirishma via yorikiri
Kotonowaka def. Onosato via kotenage*
*Must see bouts!
Analysis
He’s human!
Takerufuji suffered his first loss of the haru basho on Day 12 after coming up against the ozeki Hoshoryu. Takerufuji elected to rush Hoshoryu and quickly found out why that was a bad idea. Takerufuji has done great this tournament with charging folks off the tachiai and taking them out before they could think. However, Hoshoryu is different. Sumo’s best judo player was able to ride the momentum and switch himself into throwing position at lightning speed. The resulting kotenage sent Takerufuji off the doyho (and almost into the head referee’s lap).
That pegged Takerufuji back to 11-1 and advanced Hoshoryu to 9-3. That 9-3 mark is shared by Kotonowaka, Onosato and Gonoyama (who has sneaked into title contention with few noticing).
Kotonowaka defeated Onosato this day, also with a kotenage. Onosato looked like he either tripped or buckled during the ending sequence. Hopefully we didn’t just witness the young prospect suffer a knee injury. He did seem to be walking OK, and smiling, after the bout, though.
Gonoyama, who has been the forgotten man in this current golden generation of sumo ever since he earned his top division promotion last year, has reached 9-3 off the back of an impressive win over Daieisho. Gonoyama’s record has also been benefited from two fusen wins.
Takerufuji will face Wakamotoharu on Day 13. Kotonowaka will take on Takakeisho. Onosato will meet Daieisho. And Hoshoryu and Gonoyama will go at it (that will be a spicy one).
Other big news from Day 12 was Takakeisho failing to clinch kachi-koshi (and thus erase his kadoban status) in a loss to Wakamotoharu. It will be a nervy last couple of days for fans of The Angry Hamster.
There were also some great matches further down the rankings, including Ura’s sliding win over Meisei, Sadanoumi bloody battle with Daiamami and Asanoyama and Takanosho’s war of attrition.
Day 13
Results
Daiamami def. Shirokuma via yorikiri (frontal force out)
Nishkifuji def. Shonannoumi via yorikiri
Roga def. Ichiyamamoto via uwatenage (over arm throw)
Churanoumi def. Mitakeumi via oshidashi (frontal push out)
Shodai def. Sadanoumi via makiotoshi (twist down)*
Kotoshoho def. Myogiryu via oshidashi
Ryuden def. Onosho via katasukashi (under shoulder swing down)*
Endo def. Tamawashi via hikiotoshi (hand pull down)*
Takayasu def. Midorifuji via hatakikomi (slap down)*
Takanosho def. Hokutofuji via hatakikomi
Oho def. Kitanowaka via oshidashi
Atamifuji def. Hiradoumi via yorikiri*
Tobizaru def. Ura via hatakikomi*
Nishikigi def. Meisei via shitatenage (under arm throw)*
Asanoyama def. Abi via tsukiotoshi (thrust down)*
Takerufuji def. Wakamotoharu via yorikiri*
Onosato def. Daieisho via hatakikomi (slap down)
Takakeisho def. Kotonowaka via okuridashi (rear push out)*
Hoshoryu def. Gonoyama via sukuinage (beltless arm throw)*
Kinbozan def. Kirishima via uwatenage
*Must see bouts!
Analysis
And then there were three.
Takerufuji’s Cinderella story continues thanks to an amazing win over Wakamotoharu on Day 13. That win put him at 12-1 and means he can win the championship tomorrow if he wins and if Hoshoryu and Onosato both lose. On Day 13 Takerufuji will get another tough assignment in the shape of Asanoyama. Hoshoryu will meet Kotonowaka and Onosato will face Abi.
Takerufuji got his win over a highly motivated Wakamotoharu (he needed this for kachi-koshi) by bringing the pressure into the sekiwake and refusing to let up. Wakamotoharu is one of the strongest men in the sport, but Takerufuji was able to get him moving across the ring and eventually out with the strong yorikiri we have begun to expect from him.
Hoshoryu remained in second place with a quick throw on Gonoyama (eliminating Gonoyama from title contention). This felt right since the only reason Gonoyama was in reach of the cup was because he had two fusen wins earlier in the tournament.
Onosato remained tied for second place with a win over Daieisho. Daieisho has looked very sloppy this tournament and he sailed past Onosato to lock up his make-koshi in quite embarrassing fashion.
Kotonowaka could have joined Hoshoryu and Onosato at 10-3, but he fell to Takakeisho. After miscalculating on an attempt to get behind Takakeisho, Kotonowaka got stuck defending against a throw and that allowed Takakeisho to get side on and use his awesome pushing power to get his fellow ozeki out. That win means Takakeisho’s ozeki rank is safe, for now.
There were plenty of other bouts I enjoyed this day, which had nothing to do with the championship.
Asanoyama showed exactly the right way to handle an Abi.
And Shodai pulled out a twist down on Sadanoumi.
Day 14
Results
Myogiryu def. Tokihayate via uwatenage (over arm throw)
Endo def. Sadanoumi via hatakikomi (slap down)
Shonannoumi def. Shodai via kotenage (arm lock throw)*
Mitakeumi def. Ryuden via tsukiotoshi (thrust down)
Hokutofuji def. Daiamami via tsukiotoshi
Kotoshoho def. Churanoumi via hatakikomi*
Takayasu def. Roga via oshidashi (frontal push out)*
Tamawashi def. Kitanowaka via oshidashi*
Gonoyama def. Nishikifuji via okuridashi (rear push out)
Onosho def. Midorifuji via oshidashi
Tobizaru def. Kinbozan via okurinage (rear throw down)*
Meisei def. Ichiyamamoto via hatakikomi
Hiradoumi def. Ura via hansoku (disqualification - hair pull)*
Asanoyama def. Takerufuji via yorikiri (frontal force out)*
Onosato def. Abi via hatakikomi*
Oho def. Nishikigi via kotenage
Daieisho def. Takanosho via hikiotoshi (hand pull down)
Wakamotoharu def. Atamifuji via yorikiri
Kirishima def. Takakeisho via fusen (default)
Kotonowaka def. Hoshoryu via yoritaoshi (frontal crush out)
*Must see bouts!
Analysis
And then there were two. On tomorrow’s final day of the competition it will be Takerufuji and Onosato competing for the Emperor’s Cup. Whoever wins will make history. Takerufuji could win the title in only his first makuuchi tournament. Onosato could win in just his second. It’s a truly astonishing end to what has been a very exciting tournament.
To set up this grand finale, Takerufuji lost to Asanoyama and Onosato beat Abi. Hoshoryu could have joined those two on the final day, but he lost to Kotonowaka.
Takerufuji took his loss after Asanoyama was able to stifle his hard pushing yorikiri game with his own hard pushing yorikiri game. Asanoyama’s size (and girth) advantage helped him power Takerufuji over the edge. Takerufuji hobbled away from the bout. I think he may have rolled his ankle on his drop down from the dohyo. Hopefully this isn’t something that prevents Takerufuji competing on the final day. It would be a tremendous shame if Onosato wins this by default.
Onosato gave himself a chance of winning the cup by out-Abi’ing Abi.
And Hoshoryu lost out on a chance to win the title after making a fatal mistake against Kotonowaka. Hoshoryu tried to henka his fellow ozeki. Then he panicked and tried to do a judo throw, but Kotonowaka was wisely able to avoid it and land the crush out victory. Hoshoryu went for his henka despite the fact that his opponents have been conditioned to expect their speed and momentum to be used against them with a quick throw attempt. Kotonowaka is the kind of wrestler to adjust his gameplan to his opponents, so it was unlikely that he was going to rush in haphazardly against Hoshoryu. This made him a terrible candidate for a henka attempt in this situation. I think Hoshoryu realized that, too, hence why he looked so upset (with himself) as he left the arena.
If Takerufuji can compete, he will fight Gonoyama with a win clinching him the title. If he loses, Onosato will need to beat Hoshoryu to force a play-off.
On Day 14 we had a slew of rikishi claim their kachi-koshi and make-koshi. The most controversial of those was hometown favourite Ura being given his eighth loss after he was judged to have pulled Hiradoumi’s hair on an epic throw out. The crowd didn’t like that one bit.
Final Day
Results
Churanoumi def. Kitanowaka via yoritaoshi (frontal crush out)
Ichiyamamoto def. Ryuden via yorikiri (frontal force out)
Mitakeumi def. Endo via oshidashi (frontal push out)
Shodai def. Nishikifuji via oshidashi
Kotoshoho def. Roga via amiuchi (fisherman’s throw)*
Hokutofuji def. Shonannoumi via oshidashi
Takayasu def. Daiamami via yorikiri
Tamawashi def. Myogiryu via oshidashi
Takerufuji def. Gonoyama via oshitaoshi (frontal push down)*
Sadanoumi def. Midorifuji via yorikiri*
Onosho def. Tobizaru via oshidashi
Meisei def. Takanosho via yorikiri*
Oho def. Ura via oshitaoshi
Nishikigi def. Kinbozan via yorikiri
Abi def. Atamifuji via oshidashi
Wakamotoharu def. Asanoyama via yorikiri*
Hiradoumi def. Daieisho via hikiotoshi (hand pull down)
Hoshoryu def. Onosato via shitatenage (under arm throw)*
Kirishima def. Kotonowaka via uwatenage (over arm throw)*
*Must see bouts!
Analysis
We witnessed history this day, friends. Takerufuji fought through an ankle injury, and a very tough opponent, to win the 2024 spring tournament. He is the first top division rookie to win a title since 1914. In addition to winning an Emperor’s Cup, the 24-year-old also swept the special prizes; earning the Technique, Fighting Spirit and Outstanding Performance prizes.
Takerufuji beat Gonoyama with power on the final day, electing not to play it safe with the kind of henka we saw him beat Roga with earlier in the tournament. He met Gonoyama chest to chest, despite how much strain that would have put on his badly hurt ankle. After halting Gonoyama’s much feared opening thrust, Takerufuji was able to march Gonoyama to the straw and almost frog hopped him out. Gonoyama summoned up a great deal of strength, though, and was able to get back to the middle of the ring. However, it just prolonged the inevitable, as Takerufuji was then able to shove him out with a firm push to the midsection. As Gonoyama hit the deck, Takerufuji tried to hold back tears as what he had accomplished began to dawn on him.
An incredible ending to an incredible tournament.
Despite Takerufuji settling the tournament against Gonoyama, there were plenty of bouts which followed. Onosato, now fighting for pride, went up against Hoshoryu. He rushed Hoshoryu to the edge, but the ozeki pulled off yet another marvellous judo throw. This one was especially impressive, with him going completely vertical on one leg and still managing to toss his much larger opponent (and then land on his feet). Onosato received a Fighting Spirit and Technique prizes for his efforts this basho.
The last bout of the day was Kirishima looking to salvage some good vibes against Kotonowaka. Despite there being nothing to play for here, both men put on a heck of a show. The back and forth battle saw both close to being pushed out, but Kirishima was able to gut it out and then throw Kotonowaka after teasing him with a trip attempt.
Another must-see bout from the final day was a highly technical belt grabbing battle between Wakamotoharu and Asanoyama. Wakamotoharu was able to get the best hold and scoop his hips away from Asanoyama long enough to earn the yorikiri here (his first win over Asanoyama).
And that does it for the second grand sumo tournament of the year. That also concludes my first ever tournament here on The Fight Site. I think it’s gone rather well. Thank you to everyone who has read this post over the last two weeks, both my subscribers from Substack and the folks who regularly peruse The Fight Site. I hope you’ve enjoyed the coverage.
And if you want more sumo content, please consider subscribing to Sumo Stomp! on Substack. You get plenty of content for free there, but there are also premium pieces for paying subscribers. If you appreciate what I do and want to support me (and ensure I keep doing it) the best way to do that is with an annual subscription.
See you in May!
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