The Apex Of Sports

Mariners Player By Player Recap for Oakland Athletics, 5/10/24

KGMI, A good series from Haniger is paramount for the squad.

On Mother’s Day weekend, the Seattle Mariners hope to gain back some momentum after a deflating series loss to the Twins. Their opponents are last year’s laughing stock, the Oakland Athletics. Oakland (18-21) have looked alright this year, with power hitters Brent Rooker (LF) and Shea Langeliers (C) leading with 18 homers combined. Meanwhile on the pitching front, hot closer Mason Miller has a 1.10 ERA with 32 strikeouts so far, and rumors are swirling of a potential trade to a contender. Starting pitchers Paul Blackburn and JP Sears have been really good so far, both with relatively good stats all around. This series is extremely important for the M’s to hold onto their status as playoff contenders, and keeping a positive record this early on will allow more breathing room when things get tough in August or September.

Hitters Stats vs Oakland Pitchers

Catchers: Home run magnet Cal Raleigh (.209/.298/.452) has 9 Home Runs so far, and has come in clutch, winning several games for the team already. The only pitcher he has faced more than once is Paul Blackburn, who Cal has a home run against in their 9 at bats together. While in 2022 he had an amazing 1.160 OPS in his 14 games against the A’s, last year he had a pretty dismal .583. Hitting hot here will be key to any potential series win for the Mariners. Backup catcher Seby Zavala (.185/.185/.259, with an OPS of .444 on the season) has an OPS of .720 against the A’s so he might be able to get something going for the team if called upon.

First Base: The only 1b Ty France (.240/.301/.331) has had an up and down showing so far, as after struggling mightily last season, he started off hot this season. But he has cooled off a bit, now back to his status as a below average hitter. He has always been good against the A’s though, with a career .770 OPS against the team. He has a .598 OPS against Blackburn though, so I would look for any improvement outside of that game. While he might not be a make or break player like some of the others, if he performs well he will improve the team’s floor.

Second Base: Former Minnesota Twin Jorge Polanco (.182/.291/.299) has had his struggles, but leading the team in walks at 20 (though leading with 50 strikeouts as well) and having 5 homers has shown his value to the team. Against the Athletics he has always been below average, with a .626 OPS and little experience against their current crop of pitchers. I’m not expecting a whole lot, but maybe he can pull through with the new pitching matchups for him.

Third Base: Team leader in almost every statistic Josh Rojas (.348/.417/.533, a combined .950 OPS.) is the shining light for the hitters. He has been the teams leadoff hitter with J.P. Crawford still on the injured list, and he might stay in that leadoff roll even after Crawford comes back. He has a small number of AB’s against the A’s, and while the numbers look bad (.289 OPS) he should be improving them big time given the hot streak. Backup Luis Urias (.176/.300/.412) has come in with a clutch homer here and there, but is seemingly just a utility player as of now. He has only one hit in 5 at bats against the A’s, though that was an RBI Double.

Shortstop: Utility man Dylan Moore (.200/.316/.375) has stepped up pretty big so far in his new starting role, having 16 hits in just 80 AB’s with 3 in his last 5 games. Add on his 5 SB’s and he is a suitable player for the team.

Taking a look at his stats against Oakland though, and you can see while he struggled last year, a tremendous 2022 run shows he can get things moving when needed. Against J.P Sears he also has 3 hits in 10 AB’s, though that matchup might happen near the end of the series given Sears just played against The Rangers a couple days ago.

Left Field: Luke Raley (.243/.274/.329) has been heating up as of late, getting a nice 5 hits and 2 RBI’s in his last 5 games. With Canzone ramping up for a return, you’d think Raley would be trying extra hard to keep a potential starting position. In 15 AB’s last year, Raley got 4 hits and a .856 OPS. against the A’s. A series like that and Raley can put the Mariners over the series hump and potentially win a game outright if lucky.

Center Field: Julio Rodriguez (.262/.317/.309) is still looking for his first home run of the season, and if there is a series to get it, it’s this one. Julio has 7 home runs in 103 AB’s against the A’s, with a career 1.114 OPS as well. In 23 AB’s against Blackburn and Sears, Julio has 6 hits. This is the moment to end his usual early season slumps, and signal to the league he is back.

Right Field: Mitch Haniger (.213/.298/.370) has been a consistent presence as of late, with 4 hits in the last 5 games not being especially good, but better then a couple others on the team. He is particularly good against Paul Blackburn, having 3 hits (with 2 being homers) in 8 AB’s against the pitcher. Against the A’s he has a .282 average with 19 homers and a .926 OPS. If he can even be just below his average, he would be one of the best hitters on the team this series.

Designated Hitter: Mitch Garver (.213/.273/.370) is failing to hit at an average level for any position, nevermind a DH. He has been improving his average by having 5 hits in 5 games, including a homer a couple days ago. But expectations are higher for the former Ranger due to the position.

His stats against the A’s are pretty similar to his stats this season, and it’s hard to tell how good he can be this series.

Overall: This series is extremely important for the team’s hitting, and will be a good test to see if things can improve now or if fans have to wait longer to see improvement. The outfield especially could rake here, and hopefully they can give some help to Rojas who has been carrying everyone as of late.

Pitcher Stats vs Oakland Hitters

We can now head to the part of the Mariners that is impressive, the pitching. Bryan Woo is starting tonight and it’s also his first start this season after being on the IR. He has pitched 11 innings against the A’s and has allowed zero runs and only 3 hits. I wouldn’t be shocked if he struggles in this return game, but it being against the A’s hopefully means it isn’t dire. Bryce Miller meanwhile has allowed 4 runs and 11 hits in his 3 games against Oakland hitters. Watch out for Esteuey Ruiz, who has gone 2-7 against the pitcher. Meanwhile Luis Castillo has a 3.45 ERA and hasn’t been the best, but still pretty decent against the team. Shea Langeliers is the player to look at when Castillo is on the plate, going 4-10 against the top Mariners pitcher. Hopefully the hitters can be ready for Castillo’s game to give him support, and also not leave the injured Woo hanging like they did with Kirby a couple games ago.

Ranking the Top 100 Prospects in Sumo

When sports fans think of Japan, they usually think of the country’s impact in Baseball. Players like Shohei Ohtani and Masataka Yoshida have become some of the best players in the sport as a whole, but more specifically the MLB. Major League Baseball is the American League, and has become the league for the entire sport. Players Internationally and here in America work day and night to even get a shot at a minor league team, in the hopes of eventually making it to the major leagues. These young athletes are put into a list by sites like Mlb.com and Baseball America, ranking the prospects on not only how likely they will make the MLB but also how likely they will become superstars. (https://www.mlb.com/prospects as an example. You can go back several years on that website to prove how accurate/successful they are at predicting these guys.)

In this post we will be attempting something similar. We are ranking the 100 top prospects in professional sumo. We are going to have some rules here though.

-Juryo will be the window for saying you’ve “Made it” as that’s when a Rikishi actually gets a full salary. But, like the MLB prospects, we will give a window of 3 Juryo Basho before you’ve officially passed the status as a prospect.

-If you reach Makuuchi before doing more then 3 Juryo appearances, then you have passed the status of a prospect as well. (As this was mostly written in between tournaments, we will say you have to participate in one before the making of the list.)

-Age Limit of 26 here, though if you are younger and in a higher rank you are probably going to be higher.

-The Rikishi must participate in at minimum 2 basho. Can’t really predict those down in Jonokuchi.

With that said….

The Top 100 Prospects In All Of Sumo

Takerufuji (Juryo 10, 56-8 career record, 24 years old) (One of the best prospects I’ve seen since I started this blog, he’s been pure strength up the rankings but has also shown some good techniques in the process. Winner of Juryo last tournament, his 8 career losses have come to former Sekitori and other prospects.)
Onokatsu (Makushita 8, 11-3, 23) (Mongolian Makushita Tsukedashi who has shown extreme promise, he should be able to force his way to Makuuchi off of strength.)
Shirokuma (Juryo 6, 65-29, 24) (Strong student of Kisenosato, has shown to be able to do some technical moves, but has played it safe with only doing the basics to get wins in Juryo.)
Satorufuji (Makushita 3, 33-9, 19) (Extremely young for top of Makushita, he recently won a Makushita Yusho but last tournament suffered his first Make-Koshi. Still has an extremely bright future.)
Wakaikari (Makushita 15, 33-9, 18) (Even younger then Satorufuji, Waka has zero Make-Koshi and a Sandanme Yusho to his name. His ability to finish off matches with true ability versus power at a young age makes him even more promising.)
Oshoumi (Juryo 13, 94-40-28, 22) (0 Make-Koshi in tournaments he didn’t get injured in, he came back from starting 3-6 last tournament to finish 8-7 and get a Kachi-Koshi.)
Asakoryu (Juryo 9, 85-55-3, 25) (Former Sandanme Tsukedashi, his mostly pushing/thrusting style has led to his rise even with his smaller then average build. Only 5 Make-Koshi in his 17 basho career. )
Kototebakari (Makushita 8, 56-27-1, 20) (Brother of Kotoshoho, 2 Make-Koshi in career and has a Jonokuchi and Jonidan Yusho in his rise. His Kachi-Koshi last tournament means that this tournament he will make an attempt for Juryo.)
Haruyama (Makushita 41, 30-5, 23) (A former college rikishi, his pushing strength has led to his rise to Makushita in less then a year. He finished runner up after losing to former Sekiwake Wakatakakage for the Yusho. Very promising if he can keep the strength.)
Fujiseiun (Sandanme 26, 74-32-29, 26) (First Sandanme in the list, he is a former Juryo Rikishi who fell all the way to Sandanme due to injuries. He just won the Sandanme Yusho, and it would be a huge surprise if he somehow doesn’t make it back to Juryo, if not all the way to Makuuchi.)
Tenshoho (Juryo 12, 76-53-7, 21) (Falls out of Juryo this tournament after a 5-10 performance last tournament, Tenshoho is one of Hakuho’s top Rikishi and has been really serviceable. At his age, he will be back in Juryo in no time.)
Aonishiki (Jonidan 10, 14-0, 19) (Ukranian Aonishiki has become a hot story, coming to Japan when the Russian-Ukraine war began. He has looked extremely strong, but has also pulled off some good trips in the process. Lots of hype for him.)
Shiroma (Sandanme 21, 20-1, 23) (Another former College Rikishi who has had an extremely quick rise, outside of a clear strength advantage early on, he has been pulling off some sick throws (mostly shitatenage’s) on his rise up which should prove handy.)
Tanji (Sandanme 1, 50-27, 17) (First and one of the only 17 year olds on this list, Tanji has shown incredible strength for his age, and while he has 2 make-koshi in his first two attempts in Makushita, it’s a matter of time before he gets one, as he has proven to be better then the Sandanme level multiple times already.)
Hitoshi (Makushita 7, 63-36-21, 26) (A Former Juryo Rikishi, he has been going through some injury issues after going 2-13 in his one Juryo tournament. He should make it back up there though, as he is a former Makushita Yusho winner.)
Kiho (Makushita 42, 34-25-20, 24) (Former Makushita Tsukedashi who has made apperances in Juryo. He has suffered from injuries for most of his active career so far, and he is dropping since pulling out in September. If he can get fully healthy, he will be back up in Juryo in no time.)
Anosho (Makushita 57, 23-5, 18) (No Make-Koshi for this 18 year old. Anosho has risen up the ranks at remarkable speed, and even came back from starting 0-3 last tournament to finish 4-3. If he can fight off adversity this young, then I am really excited to see what happens when he gets older.)
Kayo (Makushita 1, 52-21, 24) (Former Sandanme Tsukedashi, he is one of Kisenosato’s key Rikishi. Only 3 Make-Koshi, his first attempt at Juryo promotion led to a Make-Koshi that he will need to recover from.)
Daiseizan (Makushita 18, 52-18-40, 23) (Chinese Born, Daiseizan has had zero non injury related Make-Koshi. He is the nephew of stable master Arashio, and has had several performances where he almost won a Yusho. He has shown to be particularly good at the Uwatenage, his signature move outside of pushing out.)
Kiryuko (Makushita 5, 70-42, 21) (The young Kiryuko has been trying for the past 7 months to make Juryo, each time in that promotion zone but not being able to finish the run in the end. At his age, he will make it at some point though. Here is a tweet about how he and his brother Shunrai saved an elderly man from drowning before the start of the January tournament: https://twitter.com/patriciajaydee/status/1745857173413134786?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw%7Ctwcamp%5Etweetembed%7Ctwterm%5E1745857173413134786%7Ctwgr%5E303cd91dcd214611462b3e679c6d3f6f23f6f6a9%7Ctwcon%5Es1_&ref_url=https%3A%2F%2Fthespun.com%2Fmore%2Ftop-stories%2Fsumo-wrestler-saved-an-87-year-old-man-from-drowning)
Kazekeno (Makushita 26, 52-25, 24) (Even with recent struggles, Kazekeno still looks really strong, and has pushed and thrust his way close to the promotion zone. If he can stay course and not let any other confidence issues get to him, then I can see him fulfilling his goal in making Juryo.)
Asahakuryu (Makushita 19, 32-10, 25) (Top Mongolian has had some issues at the top of Makushita, 2 Make-Koshi in a row. If he can show he can handle this top area of Makushita, he’d most likely make the sekitori ranks.)
Kazenoumi (Makushita 46, 35-14, 21) (21 year old Mongolian who has risen to Makushita in less then a year. 1 career make-koshi, he has some fun techniques to his name, including an impressive Uchimuso in September.)
Hananoumi (Makushita 29, 56-28, 20) (Described by Kisenosato as his mini me, Hananoumi has had a great start to his career. Not only a 2:1 record, he has had the edge on his debut rivals such as Wakanosho, Kotokenryu, and Toseiryu. The 20 year old has shown a ton of power, and if he can increase his throws and do a bit more then his usual thrusting, he will be up in Juryo in no time.)
Kotokenryu (Makushita 14, 55-28-1, 20) (Another fast riser, Kotokenryu made his Makushita debut last March. He has 4 career Make-Koshi (though Covid caused one of them.) and has shown great strength for his age.)
Toshunryu (Makushita 30, 45-22-3, 24) ( A really technical Rikishi, Toshunryu can throw in rare moves like Hikkake’s while also throwing in some thrusting techniques. He looks ready though to advance to higher Makushita after struggling in his first few basho in the division.)
Hatsuyama (Makushita 4, 50-33-1, 24) (Former Sandanme Tsukedashi who just went 1-6 at a career high rank. The 24 year old has pulled off some impressive techniques, but has struggled to meat the strength requirements at the top of Makushita.)
Kanzaki (Makushita 13, 50-34, 24) (Another Sandanme Tsukedashi, he started his career off with a Sandanme Yusho but has struggled this past year with consistent Make-Koshi every time he tries to reach the elite of Makushita. He is known for his strong thrusting power where he gets most wins, but he has also thrown in some moves in as well.)
Nabatame (Makushita 12, 95-60-6, 21) (A Makushita regular finding his grove, Nabatame has been showing he can hang with the best in recent tournaments, with a big confidence boost in March where he went 6-1 to reach the top echelon of the division. While he has struggled, he has remained climbing and has been doing better as of late.)
Dewanoryu (Makushita 18, 100-58-10, 22) (Understudy of Mitakeumi, Dewanoryu has been close to sekitori a couple times with a career high rank of Makushtia 3, but injuries and confidence issues have stopped him. At 22, he should make it at some point though, and it will come down to momentum.)
Otsuji (Makushita 9, 106-75-16, 20) (Former teenage prodigy Otsuji, who reached Makushita 8 a little after he turned 18, has slowed down a bit but is clearly increasing in power, being ranked in the top 20 or so ranks now for a couple tournaments. At his age, it would be a shocker if he doesn’t make it, but it’s hard to tell when that day will come.
Yoshii (Makushita 15, 108-81-7, 20) (Former middle school Yokozuna, Yoshii won a Makushita Yusho back in July of 2022. It’s been a struggle for consistency since, as while he is now firmly in mid Makushita, the feeling that he could be bigger still remains. He is mainly a pusher thruster, but has pulled off the occasional shitatenage when needed.)
Otani (Makushita 56, 41-22, 24) (A Miyagino prospect, Otani has been in a bit of hot water due to being animated after his fights, including giving a peace sign after winning the Jonokuchi Yusho, which he has since apologized for. He has been a big Oshidashi guy, but he has struggled as of recent in Makushita, 2 back to back Make-Koshi in September and November of last year.)
Wakanosho (Makushita 27, 53-31, 20) (A big oshi specialist, Wakanosho went to high school with Kototebakari, and has risen up the ranks with him. No Yusho, and in recent months he has struggled to get out of Mid Makushita, but he is still really young and can hopefully find a good rhythm to continue his climb.
Miyagi (Makushita 17, 70-42, 25) (Small Miyagi has been known for being one of the better technical Rikishi in the division, with most of his wins in recent basho coming through creative throws. It’s a little more up in the air with his size, but if he can keep getting these good throws then he could make it big.)
Toseiryu (Makushita 24, 52-31-1, 24) (A former college rikishi, 24 year old Toseiryu has slowly risen, not getting a make-koshi until nearly 2 years into his career. A technical fighter, most of his finishes since making Makushita have been Kotenage or Shitatenage, just grappling up his opponent. Hopefully he can get past this wall of sorts in mid Makushita (2 Make-Koshi in similar ranks) as he’s a really fun rikishi to watch.)
Kazuto (Makushita 40, 44-26, 20) (A former Middle School prodigy, Kazuto rose up the ranks quickly, making his Makushita debut in just his fourth basho. But since arriving to Makushita he has been losing more, with 3 Make-Koshi in a row in his last 3 basho. He is a very well rounded fighter, having pulled off some good moves as well as showing his pushing skills.)
Nagamura (Makushita 54, 28-14, 19) (A former high school standout, Nagamura has 2 Make-Koshi in his career, and he has also gotten 3 6-1 performances in his career. The short rikishi (he’s only 5’6) has been rather strong, using his natural skill to push and slap his Rikishi out of the ring, though recently he has pulled off some more throws.)
Kazeeidai (Sandanme 13, 32-17, 19) (The technically gifted Kazeeidai looks rather strong, twisting and throwing a quarter of his opponents so far. Only 1 Make-Koshi in his career, and he could be up in Makushita by May.)
Hayatefuji (Sandanme 32, 84-54-23, 22) (A former high school Yokozuna, Hayatefuji was brought on by Isegahama Beya, and has done well so far, making a big impact in Makushita. Sadly an injury has sent him down here to Sandanme, and it seems he will keep falling. He is rather powerful and got some skills under his belt (including some good throws as of recent.) and with a career high rank of Ms4, it would be sad to see him not be able to come back up.)
Tsukahara (Makushita 11, 145-108, 24) (the most experienced Rikishi this high on the list, Tsukahara has the skills to hang with Juryo Rikishi. But sadly, his confidence and momentum plummet every time he gets close. He has attempted to get up to Juryo 6 times, including making it to Makushita 1 twice, but each time he is either too low on the promotable list or getting a make-koshi. If he can get past this wall, Tsukahara.)
Mineyaiba (Makushita 23. 112-71-13, 24) (Another experienced Rikishi, Mineyaiba has struggled to have momemtum in Makushita, as he has suffered a couple of rough Make-Koshi in recent months as well as sometimes falling apart and going 2-5. He’s a very strong Rikishi, and while not the most technical, he can easily push or twist out most opponents with his strength.)
Hokutenkai (Makushita 7, 100-68-14, 25) (Mongolian Hokutenkai has been Onoe’s star pupil in the past couple years, and he has looked strong, yet struggling for momentum in Makushita. After sitting out with COVID, his quick rise stopped. Since 2021 he has been bouncing around Makushita, never reaching back to his pre COVID high of Makushita 5. A fun technical Rikishi, he is a always a tough test for other Rikishi.)
Chiyotora (Makushita 34, 104-78-7, 20) (Kokonoe’s big prospect, Chiyotora is a streaky Rikishi who had 3 big Kachi-Koshi’s when he started in Makushita, but fell back to Sandanme a little over a year later. He’s back though, and has looked incredibly strong in his recent tournaments, and he hopes to make it back to career high Makushita 14.)
Kobayashi (Sandanme 30, 28-13-1, 19) (A slow riser compared to some of the super prospects above, Kobayashi has one make-koshi back in November. He has done several good throws that have showed off some great skill recently, but it’s going to take some time before he can make it high in Makushita.)
Gonoumi (Sandanme 24, 26-13-3, 19) (Former high school Yokozuna, Gonoumi is the pupil of former Ozeki Goeido. He rose quickly to Makushita, but after a 1-6 performance and then an injury in the latest basho, he will be down in low Sandanme, where he has to be a favorite to win the Yusho. A thrusting specialist, he has shown to be able to do throws when needed, and will need to do more when he reaches higher ranks.)
Soma (Sandanme 50, 24-11, 19) (Soma reached Sandanme in his 5th basho, and while he had a make-koshi in September, the 19 year old has quickly made it up, being a contender in November and getting a kachi-koshi last month in his first Sandanme basho. He has shown a specialty in the Uwatenage, with 3 wins with the move so far.)
Osanai (Makushita 28, 70-49, 24) (Plucky underdog Osanai has been a fan favorite since his debut, showing heaps of fighting spirit in his rise. He struggled hard when he hit Makushita, falling from high Ms10 all the way down to Ms45, but he has started to work his way back up, with a high since the fall being Ms23. He is another throwing specialist, getting a couple Uwatenage recently as well as showing the ability to come from behind for the victory.)
Shunrai (Sandanme 4, 63-49, 18) (Shunrai is the brother of Kiryuko, and gained fame for winning the Jonokuchi Yusho at the age of 15! It’s been a bit more of a slow rise since, with each time he reached a new division he’d fall right back down in un-impressing fashion. Now he is ready for a second attempt at Makushita and with his age, I’d be shocked if he can’t figure it out and make Juryo at some point.)
Rinko (Sandanme 27, 45-32, 17) (17 year old Rinko, known for his middle school success as a rikishi, has been a good name to watch for. He is a pusher thruster, and has been a stalwart in Sandanme in recent tournaments. At a career high rank of Sd27, he has gotten his Kachi-Koshi and is now in unchartered waters next tournament, as a good performance means he will make his Makushita debut in May.)
Fujitoshi (Makushita 48, 71-40-8, 25) (Debuting along side prospects Fujiseiun and Osanai, Toshi has fallen behind a bit, not being able to get past mid Makushita. He has also had some injury troubles, that have pushed him down to Sandanme at times due to injuries. He’s already 25, and hopefully he can get some good momentum to show that he is still a top prospect.)
Tendozan (Makushita 38, 91-56-14, 22) (Formerly named Shinohara, Tendozan has also gone through some injury issues in 2022, sending him to Sandanme where he also suffered a bad performance in November of that year, which meant he stayed in Sandanme longer then expected. A strong fighter known for his thrusting, he recently got a 6-1 at Makushita 38, which means next tournament he will be at a career high rank.)
Kitadaichi (Makushita 6, 214-192, 25) (A veteran compared to these other prospects, Kitadaichi has sprung up as a surprise Juryo promotion contender. He’s on a a hot streak, being a playoff contender in September after being in mid Makushita for a good chunk of her career. If he can keep up his current hot streak, he could make Juryo and graduate from this list.)
Wakamiyabi (Makushita 55, 45-32, 20) (A prospect from the same class of Kazekeno and Tanji, Wakamiyabi is a slower riser compared to those two. He has struggled to make it in Makushita, having two Make-Koshi in both of his tournaments at the rank. Waka has been relying on his strength so far, and while he is showing some tricks occasionally, he should still use more to try and survive Makushita.)
Hokutomaru (Makushita 9, 122-88, 24) (A rikishi hitting his stride, Mongolian Hokutomaru has been making a name for himself recently, getting a 6-1 in November and now a 4-3 at Makushita 9, and will now be in promotion contention. He is tall for sumo standards at 6’2, and has been mostly pushing his ways to victory. Like Kitadaichi, if he can keep the momentum up, we will see him in Juryo in no time.)
Gohakuun (Sandanme 56, 31-18, 18) (Another Rikishi for former Ozeki Goeido, Gohakuun has been an interesting prospect to watch so far. He has gone quickly to high Sandname, but has struggled since with 2 make-koshi in his last 4 basho. He will get another attempt at a career high rank of Sandanme 28. He is a strong grappler, winning via Yorikiri nearly 75 percent of the time.)
Nishinoryu (Makushita 22, 118-92, 23) (A slow rising Rikishi, Nishinoryu has been doing good in recent tournaments, rising up to a high of Makushita 10 before falling back down a bit. He is a bit of a grappler, getting a rare utchari in January. His rank on this list will depend on if he can show he can hang at high Makushita.)
Mudoho (Makushita 25, 95-68-5, 22) (One of the three grandsons of Yokozuna Taiho, Mudoho is the only one on this list. He has been approaching career highs, as in November he was at Makushita 13, though he went 2-5 at the rank. He’s a well rounded rikishi, as in September he won by Thrusting in all of his wins, and in January he won with 5 throws/push outs.)
Narutaki (Makushita 10, 158-126-10, 25) (An older Rikishi compared to most on the list, Narutaki is on a really hot run. A Makushita regular for most of his career, a runner up performance in a couple tournaments in 2021 and 2022 pushed him into the spotlight, and he rose to Makushita 18. After some more fights in mid Makushita, he’s now back up at the higher ranks at Ms10, but he suffered a 2-5 there)
Tokunomusashi (Makushita 14, 157-126-18, 23) (Another Makushita regular, Tokunomusashi has made his home the Ms 15-30 range for the past couple years, and while he has never looked outstanding, the 23 year old has remained rather consistent, getting on these runs of momentum before suffering a 3-4 a couple basho, putting him back where he started. He is a throwing expert, doing whatever moves he can to twist his opponent out.)
Oyamada (Makushita 58, 41-26-3, 24) (A Naruto prospect, Oyamada has climbed up the rankings slowly, making his Makushita debut just in January. He has 2 non injury related Make-Koshi in his career, and has been overshadowed by Shirokuma and Toshunryu in his rookie class. He’s already a very decorated grappler, winning by throws around 60 percent of the time.)
Nobehara (Makushita 50, 64-43-5, 21) (21 year old Nobehara’s big issue has been consistency at Makushita. After bulldozing up the ranks, including a 6-1 performance at Makushita 51, he has yet to get another Kachi-Koshi in the division. He is a strong fighter, usually pushing out his opponents.)
Tochikamiyama (Makushita 20, 114-89, 23) (Another more experienced prospect, Tochikamiyama has gotten as high as Makushita 3, before falling back down a bit to upper-mid Makushita. Mostly a pusher thruster, Tochi’s age should mean he will eventually make Juryo, but it’ll take a bit of luck and ending his momentum issues to get there.)
Fukai (Makushita 12, 89-71-1, 26) (A former Sandname Tsukedashi, it looked really likely that Fukai would make Juryo at several points, including winning a Makushita Yusho against Ryuden, a current Makuuchi Rikishi. But injuries and momentum burning out each attempt has stopped his dreams for the salaried ranks for now. He is a strong rikishi, who can either slap his opponents out of the ring or twist them around and into a throw.)
Fujinoyama (Makushita 22, 113-90, 23) (After fast tracking to Makushita 11, Fujinoyama fell back down to Sandanme, before now being a regular in the 10’s and 20’s of Makushita. Just below the elite of the division, Fujinoyama is a a pusher thruster that uses his strength to get whoever his opponent is out of the ring.
Taiga (Makushita 39, 118-98-22, 21) (Once a skinny teenager, 21 year old Taiga has gained some weight and is now getting Kachi-Koshi’s at career high ranks. He has been a slow riser of course, and has only been in Makushita for 6 basho. But he is on a roll, with 4 Kachi-Koshi’s in a row and he keeps rising. He has been winning mostly with thrusting and pushing.
Daikisho (Makushita 40, 112-91, 23) (One of the harder RIkishi to rank, some basho Daikisho looks like a beast, making it to mid Makushita in impressive fashion. Sometimes though he looks…bad. Falling backdown to Sandanme or a lower rank then expected. He is currently on a good run, and will be just one rung behind his career high rank this tournament.)
Yamada (Jonidan 76, 10-4, 17) (So far winning off pure strength, Yamada didn’t have the best first tournament (going 4-3 in Jonokuchi) but will jump up the banzuke after going 6-1 in his first Jonidan tournament. He is really young at 17, and he will hope to hang onto the momentum he built last tournament.
Kumanoryu (Makushita 57, 68-51, 20) (A Kisenosato pupil, Kumanoryu has ben a slow riser, with only 4 Make-Koshi in his career. He just got his first Kachi-Koshi in Makushita too, and seems to have found his groove in the division. The 20 year old has mostly been a thruster, but like many on this list he can throw in some throws to surprise his opponents.)
Hoshuzan (Makushita 54, 81-63-3, 26) (This strong thrusting Rikishi has had trouble making it out of the lower ranks of Makushita, and usually falters when he gets near a career high. He is 26, and one of the oldest on the list and will probably be removed from here due to age before he makes it to Juryo.)
Daishoryu (Makushita 36, 67-45-7, 21) (After winning the Sandanme Yusho, Daishoryu gained some notoriety, that sadly went to waste when he suffered a 2-5 performance in January. He hasn’t been able to get a single Kachi-Koshi in the division. He is mostly a pusher thruster.)
Takashoki (Sandanme 44, 63-48-8, 18) (A runner up in the Sandanme tournament last month, Takashoki has been on a killer run in the past four bashos, with a record of 20-8. This includes reaching a career high rank in January, losing just to Fujiseiun in this tournament. He will debut in Makushita next tournament, and it would be impressive if he can handle this form in another division.)
Kuwae (Jonidan 8, 24-11, 19) (A small for sumo 19 year old (another 5 foot 6 rikishi,) Kuwae blasted through Jonidan and Jonokuchi before suffering a make-koshi. He will make it back up to Sandanme after a 6-1 performance at Jonidan 8. He is almost exclusively a thruster, and while it’ll work at these lower ranks, he will need to throw more in there to win against better competition)
Higonomaru (Sandanme 54, 23-12, 19) (After a fast rise, two make-koshi in a row in Sandanme have slowed down this Rikishi. He has been pretty technical, and looked decently strong but him being slowed down here is why he isn’t higher on this list.)
Kiyota (Makushita 59, 100-81-15, 20) (Kiyota has failed to really advance far in Sumo, being mostly in Sandanme for most of his career. His two appearances have been bad Make-Koshi’s, and while he is young, it’s hard to tell if he can make it super far in Makushita for now. He is a really technical Rikishi, and has been able to get moves such as chongake’s or uwatedashinage’s)
Tatsuosho (Sandanme 47, 46-31, 20) (Somewhat of a slow riser, Tatsuosho has only 3 Make-Koshi is his 2 year long career. He is already pretty big at 137 Kgs, and has used his size to usually win through push out. He is at a career high rank this tournament, and could make Makushita with a good record this tournament.)
Kyokumizuno (Sandanme 41, 44-33, 19) (A Pusher thruster, Kyokumizuno is a decently powerful Rikishi who took a minute to get out of Jonidan, but so far has 3 Kachi-Koshi in Sandanme, including a big 5-2 showing at a career high rank of Sandanme 41. He could become a big time fighter if he keeps climbing up the ranks slowly.)
Kanazawa (Sandanme 61, 44-30-3, 20) (Another Naruto Rikishi, Kanazawa has had some Make-Koshi in Sandanme, usually bouncing back in forth with winning and losing records. He is a well rounded prospect, getting both throws and thrusting wins in.)
Arise (Sandanme 64, 42-35, 23) (A former college rikishi, Arise has been trying to find a groove in Sandanme, as momentum has been a big issue for him. In November of 2022, he suffered a tumultuous 0-7 in his Sandanme debut, and he just recently broke a 2 tournament Make-Koshi streak. He has shown good talent, but needs to find his groove. He has been known for his grappling too, usually twisting his opponents into a throw.)
Ieshima (Sandanme 42, 82-65-7, 19) (Ieshima is another RIkishi that bounces back and fourth with winning and losing records. He will be at a career high rank here, this tournament, and will hope to get a Kachi-Koshi to potentially get into Makushita. He will be a slow riser no matter what, and hopefully he will gain some throws as he wins mostly off his strength as of now.
Suzaki (Sandanme 7, 83-71, 19) (One of those Rikishi who are just on a huge roll, he has gone an incredible 16-4 these past 3 basho and will make his Makushita debut next tournament. It’s like watching a super prospect just demolish all competition, and now next tournament, he will be making his Makushita debut. It’s just been really fun to watch him seemingly find a huge groove, espically as before this he never got a Sandanme Kachi-Koshi before this.)
Kyoda (Sandanme 4. 72-61, 21) (A prospect at Futagoyama, Kyoda has wrestled up in in Makushita for 4 basho. before falling back down to Sandanme. HE has only 5 Make-Koshi in his 19 tournament career, and has been a rather slow climber when he was on a roll. He will be back up in Makushita next tournament, and is mostly a pusher thruster.)
Gonowaka (Sandanme 52, 27-22, 19) (Another prospect under Goeido, 19 year old Gonowaka has been a technical prospect so far who wins mostly through throws. He has hit a wall in mid Sandanme though, suffering 2 Make-Koshi in the Sandanme 50 area. If he can get past this area, he’d be someone to watch for potentially making Makushita.)
Dairinzan (Sandanme 61, 42-35, 20) (After struggling in Jonidan for a little over a year, Dairinzan won the Jonidan Yusho, launching him to Sandanme where he got a Kachi-Koshi in January. The 20 year old seems ready to keep the momentum going, and stay in Sandanme for the long haul. He is near exclusively a pusher thruster, and uses his strength to win matches vs any technical skills.)
Kotosato (Sandanme 28, 29-20, 22) (After quickly rising to Sandanme and slowly rising from there, 22 year old Kotosato has struggled a bit in recent tournaments, going 2-5 twice now. He’s not the most flashy wrestler, as he’s already pretty big and usually pushes out his opponents.)
Kosei (Jonidan 59, 21-13-15, 18) (Injury stricken Kosei will be back to Jonokuchi this tournament, as the once Sandanme competitor hasn’t had a complete tournament in the division due to the injuries. He’s been mostly a pusher thruster, but has pulled out the occasional move. He should be someone to watch in the Jonokuchi Yusho race, hoping to be the first non rookie to win the Jonokuchi Yusho since early 2022.)
Kotetsu (Sandanme 47, 80-54-20, 22) (A Sandanme regular, Kotetsu has been in mid to upper Sandanme for around 2 years. Due to that, he is down here, but his slow growth during this process as well as him remaining consistent has also kept him on the list overall, as it should be a matter of time before he hits Makushita, and maybe he can start making his name known there.
Aron (Sandanme 36, 66-53, 21) (A slow rising Rikishi to start his career, as soon as he hit Sandanme in July of 2023, a switch flipped, he kept rising and in his last two tournaments, he has gone 11-3 and will make his Makushita debut next tournament. He has gained 30 kgs of weight since starting, and has quickly become a really underrated prospect. If he can handle Makushita and keep rising at this break neck pace, the sky is the limit.)
Chiyorozan (Jonidan 65, 9-5-7, 19) (A pusher thruster so far, Chiyorozan has been one of Kokonoe’s new recruits in their attempt to refresh the stable. He is all kachi-koshi’s so far, but will stay in Jonidan after only going 4-3 last basho. He is a pusher thruster so far in his career, but the older he gets he should gain some more skills.)
Kazeyuki (Sandanme 87, 21-14, 19) (Kazeyuki has 2 Make-Koshi already in his 5 basho career, including his one basho in Sandanme ending with a 4-3. He is a short but already big lad, and is exclusively a pusher thruster to start off his career. Hopefully he can find more consistency if he wants to climb this list.)
Murayama (Sandanme 16, 70-53-3, 21) (After starting his career 13-0, Murayama has been slowly climbing up Sandanme, with the once hotly tipped prospect slowing down almost to a halt at times. He once started a tournament 4-0, but then COVID-19 hit his stable, and he hasn’t been able to carry that momentum. To his credit, he has gotten as high as Sandanme 2 before falling back down.)
Kitanosho (Sandanme 88, 29-20, 21) (Kitanosho started his career 3-4, not looking like a big prospect, but quickly after he rose to high Jonidan, suffering a Make-Koshi there and then bulldozing again to Sandanme, where the pattern continued again. If he can get through mid Sandanme, Kitanosho has shown he has the fighting spirit to go far. He mostly pushes out his opponents but has recently been throwing in more twists and throws into his arsenal.)
Daiyusho (Sandanme 34, 117-84-37, 21) (Right as Daiyusho started finding his groove (Making it to Makushita and looking really capable) Daiyusho fell down to Jonidan twice now due to big injuries keeping him out of multiple basho. He is mostly a pusher thruster, and would be higher if he could avoid these injuries that have staggered him.)
Ryuji (Jonidan 38, 22-13, 19) (A decent prospect for Onomatsu stable, Ryuji has taken a bit to get to the top of Jonidan, and his one Make-Koshi came there, not making Sandanme before the losing tournament came. He will get another shot this tournament. He is a an all rounder, showing both technical skills as well as a couple pushing victories to his name.
Fujiso (Jonidan 42, 21-14, 19) (Very similar to Ryuji, Fujiso slowly climbed to top of Jonidan, went back to mid Jonidan, but now will be competing in Sandanme after going 6-1 at Jd42. He is a rather standard pushing Rikishi, with no special skill/type of wrestling that makes him stand out. If he can hang in Sandanme, he should jump up the list a little big.)
Tsuru (Jonidan 28, 29-20, 19) (This Fujishima prospect quickly rose to mid Sandanme before falling back down to Jonidan, where he has since recovered and gotten back the fourth division. Mostly a pusher thruster, he seems pretty promising if he can keep rising.)
Chiyoresshi (Sandanme 78, 73-60-14, 20) (A rikishi who has been bouncing around Sandanme and Jonidan for a while, Chiyoresshi looked to be closing in on a Makushita promotion in November before an injury sent him down to low Sandanme. He is well rounded both in pushing and throws, and he seems ready to get out of Sandanme.)
Asonoyama (Makushita 28, 129-98-18, 24) (Famed for having a similar name to Asanoyama, Asonoyama is a pretty regular Yusho challenger in Makushita, though usually falling apart the basho after he contends. Add on some injury issues over the years and you have a streaky Rikishi who is hard to place on a list like this. If he can get on roll, he can really make it big I think. But that requires a ton of luck.)
Marusho (Makushita 35, 101-75-13, 23) (Another Sandanme regular, Marusho can sometimes get really good and go on a roll before having a disaster performance (a 0-4-3 and a 1-6 both happened right when he reached mid Makushita) and so he hovers near the bottom of the list. He seemingly has the skills, just not the confidence or straight up the luck to keep any sort of momentum going.)
Raiho (Sandanme 6, 58-40-7, 26) (The final rikishi on this list, Raiho is a smaller recruit for Hakuho who hovers around low Makushita and high Sandanme. While he is really skillful and pulls of a ton of spectacular throws (he’s gotten like 3 Uchigake’s in the past couple basho.) it seems he might not have the strength currently to handle Makushita, and that will need to grow if he wants to rise in this list.

If you made it this far….thank you. It’s a lot I know. And I bet I made some disagreeable picks for placements, so if you have some please head to the comments, would totally be cool making changes or flipping some stuff.

Names Originally On The List but pushed Out

Kiyonohana (Sandanme 69, 64-52-3, 18)

Seigo (Makushita 33, 145-111-24, 25)

Ikazuchido (Sandanme 69, 39-31, 18)

Takaarashi (Sandanme 82, 38-32, 17)

Kurohimeyama (Makushita 34, 126-105, 22)

Nihonyanagi (Makushita 42. 92-71-5, 21)

Hogasho (Sandanme 33, 65-54)

Tochikodai (Makushita 27, 147-129-4, 25)

Ishii (Sandanme 27, 72-55-27)

Hodaka (Sandanme 15, 105-84-14, 23)

Awanokuni (Makushita 43, 112-91, 23)

Taiyo (Sandanme 10, 76-65-20, 22)

Akiyoshi (Sandanme 29, 82-65, 22)

Takanoryu (Sandanme 46, 77-66-14, 19)

Denuma (Makushita 36, 106-86-4, 23)

Oyamatoumi (Makushita 23, 189-168-7, 24)

Kaigo (Sandanme 5, 122-106-10, 21)

Yurikisho (Sandanme 79, 104-80-54, 22)

Goseiryu (Sandanme 84, 60-52-14, 21)

Senho (Sandanme 8, 87-81-14, 20)

Miyata (Sandanme 28, 83-71, 19)

Shoran (Sandanme 75, 40-35, 20)

Asakiryu (Sandanme 62, 63-55-1, 21)

Kamitani (Sandanme 64, 120-97-21, 21)

Aratakayama (Makushita 56, 103-96, 20)

Kotohaguro (Makushita 52, 123-114-1, 21)

Kotokiyama (Makushita 37, 124-107, 21)

Obara (Makushita 30, 189-153-22, 24)

Kotogaeshira (Sandanme 43, 87-79-31

Toramusashi (Sandanme 73, 74-71-9, 18)

Daihisho (Sandanme 12, 104-92, 20)

Tokisoma (Makushita 43, 131-121, 25)

Hinataryu (Makushita 53, 129-114-2, 24)

Kaishin (Makushita 31, 131-118-31, 22)

Sazanami (Makushita 55, 188-176, 24)

Koki (Sandanme 38, 93-89, 20)

Daishoheki

Shimabukuro

Chiyoyamamoto

Kawabuchi

Hokutoiwa

Kojikara

Minorufuji

Kotonofuji

Kirinyu

Nikko

Every Sumo Stable Ranked (February 2024)

2 and a half years ago we posted a ranking of each Sumo Heya (Linked herehttps://theapexofsports.wordpress.com/2021/08/09/every-current-sumo-stable-ranked-aug-2021/) . A lot has happened since that ranking. New stables have come, and some stables have stopped existing. So it feels like a good time to make a sequal, and make this a little more of a consistent series.

(as a note, the parenthesis next to each beya shows their rank compared to the last post, how much I think they improved and how much they went down.

45. Otowayama Beya (NEW)

The lowest stable by default, Otowayama is the off branch of Michinoku stable, which is to close by the end of the year. There is only one Rikishi, 42 year old Hagane, who is holding it down in Sandanme. Expect to hear about them more in a future post when they start recruiting.

44. Nishiiwa Beya (-4)

With only 1 out of their 6 Rikishi in Sandanme, they are the worst stable with more then one Rikishi by the numbers. But with most of these bottom tier stables, not all of the rikishi are looking for the glory of a high rank, rather just the lifestyle of a sumo wrestler. So while lists like this may imply that these stables aren’t good, they are still doing a very important job for not just the wrestlers, but the sport itself.

43. Asahiyama Beya (-4)

One of the lesser stables, Asahiyama’s 6 wrestlers go from Jonidan and Sandanme at a regular basis. Not a ton of new blood either, so it’s a rather underwhelming bottom tier stable.

42. Shikihide Beya (-1)

Another bottom tier stable, Shikihide has around 18 Rikishi, all below Makushita with only 3 rikishi in Sandanme. The only reason they are above Asahiyama is due to those 3 staying in Sandanme regularly, compared to Asahiyama’s top guys remain flip flopping.

41. Shibatayama Beya (-4)

The 7 man stable is home to the oldest active Rikishi in all of sumo, 47 year old Shoketsu. No one else here is notable sadly, as former Juryo Sakigake retired and only 3 Rikishi are in Sandanme still.

40. Oshima Beya (-20, Former Tomozuma Heya)

Oshima’s failure to recruit as of recent years have led to them falling down the ranks. The formerly name Tomozuma stable recently saw the retirement of Kaisei and the injury fall of Kyokutaisei. It looks like they’ve begun to recruit though, as 23 year old Kyokukaiyu debuted with a 6-1 record in Jonokuchi, and seems ready to bulldoze up the ranks. It will take years though to really improve and get back into a top tier stable status.

39. Minato Beya (-25, Biggest Faller)

After Ichinojo’s retirement, it became apparent the stable is rather thin. Only one Rikishi is in Makushita, and the stable hasn’t been recruiting as well as it could’ve. Though to give credit, Jonidan Rikishi Kosei looks rather strong, but injuries pushed him down to Jonidan when he should be much higher.

38. Ajigawa Beya (NEW)

One of the new stables, Ajigawa is branched off from Isegahama stable. They have been busy bringing in new recruits, with Anosho already in Makushita in 4 basho and Ukranian Aonshiki, a stud who is so far 14-0, both being standouts. Add in 2 young promising recruits in last basho (Jonokuchi winner Anhibiki and 5-2 Anryukai) and you have a really strong base for a potentially really good stable.

37. Musashigawa Beya (+1)

While not outstanding, Musashigawa has looked a bit better in recent months, with Tokunomusashi looking like a top Makushita competitor in the past year, as the 23 year old will be in that Top 10 echelon in the division next tournament. 24 year old Hinataryu is also at the bottom of Makushita, and he hasn’t looked out of place as of yet. It’s a good sign for a stable many considered to be at the bottom echelon in talent to finally start having their guys make leaps.

36. Asakayama Beya (-9)

Former Juryo Wrestler Kaisho (Photo taken by Tsubame98

Asakayama hasn’t had the best 29 months. Kaisho, a 12 basho veteran at Juryo, has fallen all the way down to Makushita 29, and the 29 year old remains the top rikishi at the stable. No real prospects to speak of, with no new recruits still in sumo since 2020. Things are going to have to change if they want to improve their status in the sport.

35. Onoe Beya (-1)

While Mongolion Hokutenkai is still trying to make Juryo, Onoe has been recruiting at a really good pace. 23 year old Haruyama has a career record of 30-5, and is already in Makushita. Former college standout Shiroma is 20-1 so far in his career, and will make his Makushita debut next basho. It shows that Onoe is not putting all eggs in Hokutenkai’s basket, and now there is potential for a couple guys to make a jump to the salaried ranks.

34. Nishikido Beya (-6)

This stable on paper should be higher, top tier Juryo Rikishi who has made some apperances in Makuuchi. But he’s one of two rikishi at the stable, and the other Rikishi, Katsunishiki, has not made a basho outside of Jonokuchi since his debut last May. So for now they are here.

33. Oshiogawa Beya (-3, Former Oguruma Heya)

Half of their wrestlers left to join Nishonoseki beya, so it’s been a punch to the gut for the former Oguruma Stable. Top man Yago has suffered from injuries, and he is now lingering in the top tier of Division 3. Top prospect Kazekeno has had some momentum/confidence issues, struggling in attempts to make Juryo. Kazenoumi is another, and the 21 year old has been climbing the ranks quickly, with only one career make-koshi. It’s a stable with the potential to be great, but it just needs to keep moving and keep bringing in top prospects.

32. Yamahibiki Beya (+3)

Kitaharima is going to make his return to Juryo after 3 and a half years away from the salaried ranks. It’s a huge moment for a stable that in recent years has been looking like they wouldn’t get a salaried man for a long time. They do have some good prospects too, as Daishoryu recently won the Sandanme Yusho and is trying to get his footing in Makushita. Ieshima, Kassho, and Ienoshima all look like long shots for success, but they do have some decent records so far in their sumo careers.

31. Ikazuchi Beya (+1, Former Irumagawa Heya)

Ikazuchi getting Shishi has been the stables big break, as he has become a regular at Juryo and has shown potential to make Makuuchi with more experience. Outside of him, no one has shown any potential in making Sekitori. 18 year old Ikazuchido may make Makushita, but until then I’m not going to place bets on his potential.

30. Fujishima Beya (-1)

Home to Makuuchi Rikishi Bushozan, he will be falling to Juryo next tournament and is still looking for his first Makuuchi Kachi-Koshi. Former Juryo Fujiseiun is down in Sandanme, but that was due to injury, and it seems he will be going back to Juryo in the coming bashos as it’s clear he’s above this level. As of now, no big prospect is moving up, but they have a decent floor with Bushozan and a Fujiseiun rising again.

29. Kokonoe Beya (-22)

One of the former top stables, Kokonoe’s former 5 Makuuchi Rikishi have either retired or fallen to Juryo and below. Chiyoshoma and Chiyomaru will remain in Juryo next tournament, while Chiyosakae will drop down to Makushita. Prospects are limited, as Chiyotora is in Makushita but not looking like he’s gonna make Juryo for a while, if at all. That’s it though, and in a year or two the former top tier stable might have no rikishi in the salaried ranks.

28. Futagoyama Beya (+5)

Russian Roga is the leading Rikishi here, and he is back up to Makuuchi for a second attempt next tournament. This stable has been one of the most active in recruiting, with the likes of Nabatame, Nobehara, and Wakamiyabi all in Makushita. It’s another stable where momentum will determine if they can get a second salaried rikishi, but Roga has been on a roll lately and looks like be belongs at the top of Juryo

27. Tamanoi Beya (-3)

Tohakuyu will have a second run at Makuuchi next tournament, and the former Sandanme Tsukedashi will hope to get his first Kachi-Koshi here. Their are some potential for other salary guys though, as Hatsuyama, Toseiryu, and Toshunryu all have college experience and look to be standouts in the Makushita division. It has some good potential, but we are in the wait and see territory on if the stable will reach multiple salaried men.

26. Naruto Beya (+10)

Two Juryo men here, Oshoma and Oshoumi. Lot of their prospects such as Oshoryu, Marusho, and Hoshuzan just need momentum and confidence to reach top of makushita, and that might never happen for these guys. A couple more prospects such as Oyamada and Kanazawa could be something, but it’s too early to tell.

25. Kasugano Beya (-13)

Aoiyama falls to Juryo next basho, and will probably be putting the final touches of his career in the coming tournaments. Tochimusashi, former Sandanme Tsukedashi, has found it hard to get consistency at Juryo, as after that first tournament win, he has fallen consistently and is down to Makushita next tournament. A couple Makushita guys like Tsukahara have made attempts for Juryo, but failed each time. It doesnt help that former Juryo man Tochimaru has fallen all the way down to the bottom of Sandanme due to to injuries, and it seems a lot of people in the stable are suffering injury issues. It’s a stable at a very unstable time, and it’s hard to predict if any of their Rikishi will be in the top divisions when all is said and done.

24. Otake Beya (+1)

The stable is carried by 23 year old Oho, who ranks at Maegashira 11 and seems primed to be a regular in the division. Younger brother Mudoho is near the top in the 3rd division, and he just needs some consistency and momentum to make a run for Juryo. Outside of that, it’s grim, but as long as the brothers can remain near the top division, they can always stake a claim as a middle of the road stable.

23. Dewanomi Beya (-10)

One Makuuchi man and one real prospect of note. Mitakeumi is a former Ozeki and Dewanoryu, who has gotten close to Juryo a couple times. Big difference compared to other one salaried man stables, it’s unclear if Mitakeumi can make a comeback or continue to fall down the rankings like he has been recently.

22. Shikoroyama Beya (+4)

Former Yusho winner Abi is the only salaried man in the stable, and no one seems to be approaching that salaried status either. 24 year old Mineyaiba has been close a couple times, but fell each time he attempted for Juryo. No one else is close, but as long as Abi keeps winning, the stable will always be one to talk about.

21. Takekuma Beya (NEW)

The 7 man stable is rather strong, with Gonoyama being the biggest success story already at the top of the maegashira ranks. Former Sandanme Tsukedashi Kanzaki is near the top of Makushita, but has been hitting his wall there and hasn’t gotten to a promotable spot yet. Prospects such as Gohakuun and Gonoumi are grinding it out in Sandanme and could continue to rise. This could be a stable to watch if everything goes well.

20. Isenoumi Beya (+11)

Home to 6 coaches, only one notable Rikishi, former Komusubi Nishikigi, is at the stable. Prospect Wakaikari seems like a potential Juryo call up, as he is getting Kachi-Koshi’s at the top tier of Makushita at the age of 19, and Narutaki with enough momentum could probably make it. Outside of Jonidan prospect Yamada (with too little known to make a prediction on his place) and it’s a bit bleak, but it’s not in a position where once Nishikigi retires the stable plumets to the bottom of the rankings.

19. Taganoura Beya (-4)

Takayasu is the one man on top in this stable, as the Komusubi is the only Rikishi in the salaried ranks. Only one Rikishi (Kaishin) is in Makushita, and no one else is close to making it up to Makushita either. Once Takayasu is gone, this stable becomes a bottom tier one, though maybe if Takayasu becomes Oyakata, new blood will come.

18. Miyagino Beya (-16)

One of the deepest stables in all of sumo, former Yokozuna Hakuho is building a death star of Rikishi. Giant Hokuseiho might drop to Juryo next tournament, and former high school superstar Tenshoho is going to Makushita, but the depth comes in the lower divisions. Hakuoho is a former tournament runner up in Makuuchi, and would be competing for a Sanyaku promotion if not for an injury. Similar to Kiho who was looking good in Juryo before injuries pushed him down. Okinawa born Otani is in Makushita, and fan favorite Enho is in Sandanme with his own injury problems. The level of fame Hakuho brings means hundreds of potential recruits would love to join, and he gets the pick of the bunch. Don’t be surprised to see them way higher next post, especially if Hakuoho makes it to his potential again.

17. Kataonami Beya (+6)

It’s hard to rank this heya, as they have 2 men who are salaried, Tamawashi and Tamashoho. But they only have 4 Rikishi, and the other two (Tamatensho and Tamanotora) are probably not making it out of the bottom two divisions. A rebuild has to happen, as 39 year old Tamawashi isn’t going to be an active rikishi for much longer (though he keeps getting kachi-koshi’s, so maybe he will stay forever.)

16. Onomatsu Beya (+1)

The home to Onosho, Onomatsu have been on the ups as of recent months. They recruited college Yokozuna Onokatsu who will be up to Makuuchi in no time. Meanwhile Yuma has been making some appearances in Juryo, and is still trying to find his place in that Top of Makushita and Low Juryo area. No other notable prospects or names out of the three, but if they can keep up top recruiting, a quick rise wouldn’t be shocking.

15. Hanaregoma Beya (+6, Formerly Nishonoseki)

This stable is pretty weird, as on our last list this was the former Nishonoseki Stable, but due to Kisenosato getting the deed, the stable has changed it’s name. Ichiyamamoto and Shimazuumi are two makuuchi rikishi, but everyone else is Sandanme or below. To the stables credit, they have recruited some, and while Shoran and Kitanosho aren’t the most high profile, they could eventually rise up.

14. Takasago Beya (-6)

Even with Asanoyama’s fall, he seems destined to make it back to the Sanyaku ranks in the coming tournaments. The stable overall is doing pretty decent though. Former Sandanme Tsukedashi Asakoryu is climbing Juryo. Fukai has made several attempts at Juryo but failed and has an injury bug. 24 year old Asahakaryu is also climbing Makushita, and with a career record of 32-10, he has looked good in his climb. Add in former Juryo Asanowaka still getting his grasp after a particularly bad stint of Covid, and you have a deep roster that with some momentum, they can shoot back up these rankings.

13. Hakkaku Beya (-7)

Hakkaku is still the president of the JSA, and witht hat there is some prestige to the stable. Maegashira Hokutofuji is the top here, and former High School Yokozuna Kitanowaka is at Juryo. There isn’t a prospect that is looking like they will make Sekitori though, so until they can find one, they are here on the rankings.

12. Michinoku Beya (+10)

The first stable with an Ozeki, Michinoku is in a weird spot. By the end of the year, the stable will close down, with most Rikishi leaving the stable for presumably Otowayama. The Ozeki here is the only Rikishi in salaried ranks, with one other in Makushita (Yuki.) While getting that Ozeki up there is a huge achievement, it’s hard to rank the stable high when without him it would be a bottom tier stable.

11. Arashio Beya (-)

When Wakatakakage went down for almost a full year, his brother, Wakamotoharu, took his spot and is a formidable top Makuuchi Rikishi, being a former Sekiwake at his peak. Wakatakakage returns to Juryo in March, and top prospects Daiseizan and Tanji both looking like future Sekitori. You have a good stable here with huge potential.

10. Tokitsukaze Beya (-5)

Home to former Ozeki Shodai, Tokitsukaze has been an above average stable for a while now. Tokihayate has a chance of joining Shodai in Makuuchi next tournament, and he has sped through Juryo these past few tournaments. In the non salary ranks, 20 year old Yoshii seems really likely to make Juryo one day, as he already has a Makushita Yusho to his name. No one else stands out, but if they can keep up the work with these 3, they could remain relevant for several years.

9. Nishonoseki Beya (+33, former Araiso Heya, biggest risers)

Former Yokozuna Kisenosato has constructed one of the better stables in all of sumo in 2 and a half years. Not only do they have former College Yokozuna Onosato, but they also have Makuuchi regular Tomokaze and rising Juryo prospect Shirokuma. Then, they have former Sandanme Tsukedashi Kayo at the top of Makushita, and former college rikishi Miyagi also near the top of the 3rd division. With how Onosato has been progressing, I’d be shocked if this stable doesn’t fly up the rankings even more in the coming years.

8. Sakaigawa Beya (+10)

3 Makuuchi rikishi for this stable, with Hiradoumi, Sadanoumi, and Myogiryu holding their spots down. Tsushimanada will make his Juyro return next tournament, and 23 year old Nishinoryu is finding his place in Makushita, and might make the salaried ranks in the coming years. No one else is really of note, and with Sadanoumi and Myogiryu both being on the wrong side of 35, it might be time to take a look at some recruits.

7 Takadagawa Beya (+12)

Top men Ryuden and Shonanoumi lead the way in mid Maegashira. Meanwhile, Kagayaki and Hakuyozan are in mid Juryo, which means 4 men in the Sekitori ranks. 20 year old Otsuji should be in Juryo at some point, as being that young and at the top of Makushita already is a really good sign (he is currently ranked Makushita 9.) While there isn’t any superstars in the stable, it is still a really consistent and developing stable.

6. Tokiwayama Beya (-2)

Home to Ozeki Takakeisho, the small 9 man stable is pretty good. Takanosho is the other Makuuchi member here, and he is a former Sekiwake. Takakento has had several Juryo runs, but right now he is down at the top of Makushita. Prospects Wakanosho, Takashoki, and Yurikisho all have shown potential, so it will be fun to see if they can get any more of their guys up to the salaried ranks.

5. Kise Beya (+4)

Another top heavy stable, Kise has 6 Sekitori Rikishi. You have Ura, Kazakhstan born Kinbozan, and Churanoumi all in Makuuchi, and then Shimanoumi, Shiden, and Hidenoumi all in Juryo. Only prospect they have is Makushita 19 year old Nagamura, and the jury is out on if he will make it close to the salaried ranks. While strong, they are probably looking for some prospects to join.

4. Sadogatake Beya (+12)

Congrats to Sadogatake for having an Ozeki in his ranks. Kotonowaka will make his debut at the rank next tournament, and the stable looks pretty good as of now. Kotoshoho is sitting in low Makuuchi, and Kotoeko is down in Juryo. 20 year old brother of Kotoshoho, Kototebakari, is extremely promising and is already at Makushita 8. Mongolian Kotokenryu, former Juryo Rikishi Kotoyusho, and Sandanme prospect Kotosato also look really good, and the stable as a whole could be closer to number 1 in the coming years.

3. Tatsunami Beya (+7)

Another stable with an Ozeki, Tatsunami’s also comes with former Sekiwake Meisei in the Mageshira ranks. Juryo Akua is also here, but the big benefit comes from prospects. 21 year old Kiryuko has made attempts for a Juryo promotion these last few months, though so far he hasn’t made it yet. His 18 year old brother Shunrai is also going to make his debut in Makushita next tournament, and he has been on a slow climb up the ranks. Makushita Kazuto and Sandanme Tatsuosho also look like they have the potential for a rise to the salaried ranks. Overall, this is a really good stable, and I wouldn’t be shocked if they are at the number 1 spot in future rankings if their prospects continue to rise.

2. Oitekaze Beya (+1)

Oitekaze remains consistant, with Daieisho being the best non Ozeki Rikishi for a couple of years now. He is at Sekiwake, and below him are 3 other Makuuchi members, Tobizaru, Tsurugisho, and Endo. Daiamami and Daishoho hold it down in Juryo, and while Hitoshi struggled in his short stay at Juryo, it wouldn’t be surprising to see the former Makushita winner back up in the salaried ranks. As of now, there isn’t really a top prospect, just some guys slowly moving and trying to make it to Makushita. But as they remain successful, they will be up here.

1. Isegahama Beya (-)

Still the best stable in sumo, Isegahama has only fortified the great stable and has made one that could conceivably last into Terunofuji’s inevitable run as stable master. Not only do they have 4 Makuuchi wrestlers (Terunofuji, Atamifuji, Midorifuji, and Takarafuji) they have Nishikifuji who will be back up to Makuuchi next tournament, Takerufuji, who just won the Juryo tournament, and Satorufuji, who won November’s Makushita Yusho and could reach Juryo soon are both here as well. It’s just set for a very long time.

Kirishima: 3 Wins Away From Heaven

After winning the November Yusho, Ozeki Kirishima began the most important training session of his life. He had until January to prepare for the opportunity to climb to Yokozuna. The world watches every single match he participates in with bated breath, as the stakes begin to get higher and higher. It is clear that if there was any time to get that rank, it would be now.

The Golden Opportunity

First things first, we have a weakening Yokozuna whose knees are clearly faltering. Terunofuji has only been able to finish 1 tournament since the start of 2023. Injuries have left him Kyujo, and so far he has let in 2 Kinboshi this tournament, with Maegashira Rikishi now getting one over on the big man a little more frequently. While Kiribayama hasn’t completely taken advantage (he also lost two matches) he has still remained level with the Yokozuna with 10 wins, a minor victory entering this big final stretch.

Over the next three days, he will face Hoshoryu, Kotonowaka, and Terunofuji in that order. Hoshoryu will be a huge test, as he has beaten Kiribayama with an 8-7 record. It is basically a coin flip, and both have a ton of momentum, with Hoshoryu also trying to start that Yokozuna run. Kotonowaka should be easier, as he has a 3-10 record against Kirishima, but Kotono is making a run for Ozeki, and is in the lead for the Yusho. It’s a make or break point for the Ozeki hopeful, as he must go through the same gauntlet that Kirishima is doing. Finally, Terunofuji. Kirishima has never beaten Terunofuji. This is the true final test, as beating the man who he has never beaten will be what signifies that he is ready for a Yokozuna promotion. Judgement day, so to speak, but he has a long way to go. He has done just the bare minimum to be still in contention, but any loss probably tanks the chances he has. This opportunity is rare, and most who are in his position would have begged for it, but it’s up to Kirishima to continue the momentum and make that promotion happen.

Japan’s Hope For A Japanese Yokozuna: Atamifuji

21 year old Atamifuji is one of the most intriguing stories heading into 2024. Apart of the Isegahama stable, home to current Yokozuna Terunofuji and home to former Yokozuna Harumafuji, he has become the expected successor for the stables top rikishi once Terunofuji retires. He is at a career high rank at Maegashira 1 and has not looked out of place, beating out Sekiwake Daieisho and being 4-5 after going through a gauntlet of Sanyaku, losing to all Ozeki and Ozeki hopeful Kotonowaka. It has been fun to watch as the sumo world internationally and in Japan start rallying behind him, as he looks extremely promising to break the an almost unanimous gauntlet of recent Yokozuna all being international.

The Road For A Japanese Yokozuna

Yokozuna Kisenosato is the only Japanese Yokozuna of the past 7 Yokozunas (Nihon Sumo)

Since 2003, only 2 years have been filled with a Japanese Yokozuna. The not so hidden secret is Japan’s want for a Japanese Yokozuna to represent their national sport, but no one outside of Kisenosato has filled that role. Takakeisho has been close, starting numerous Yokozuna runs but injuries have stopped him. His blasting thrusting style has stopped him from remaining healthy or lasting in a match more than 5 seconds. He could still make it, but it would require luck that would be extremely hard to achieve, and his body might not hold up with the extra responsibilities. Asanoyama is another, pushed heavily after making Ozeki rank in 2020, only to break Covid stay at stable rules and getting suspended for a full year. He has still yet to make it back to the Sanyaku ranks, but has shown some promising sumo. Shodai was looked at as an option but his Ozeki run was filled with him doing everything he can not to lose the rank every basho, eventually falling off after the Kachi-Koshi/Make-Koshi streak finally broke. Mitakeumi was another extremely promising option, finally making Ozeki after 5 years at Sekiwake and with real momentum at his side. Back injuries and Covid problems now leave him in mid Maegashira. I won’t go on as more in the know fans know of these cases, but at this point it would require a lot of momentum for one of them to make it to the rank (or even in a position to contend for the rank.) Hope is not lost though, as 26 year old Kotonowaka seems destined to make Ozeki, and might be the one to become Japan’s Yokozuna. But potential promotion would still take a while.

While all of this is going on, 2 Mongolions have made Ozeki (Kirishima and Hoshoryu) and both look healthy and promising. Kirishima, this tournament, is making an attempt at Yokozuna, but already has 2 losses, so he will need luck and some perfection to possibly make it this tournament. Meanwhile Hoshoryu, 24 year old nephew of former Yokozuna Asashoryu, clearly belongs at Ozeki, and most presume he will be challenging for the Yokozuna rank at some point. It seems for now that the next Yokozuna might be Mongolian.

With all that being said, outside of Takakeisho getting lucky or Kotonowaka showing he belongs at Ozeki, the next best option for a potential Japanese Yokozuna promotion is Atamifuji

Why Atamifuji

Atamifuji has showed very quickly that his natural abilities and his techniques are apart of the highest class in Sumo. He quickly bulldozed the lower ranks (winning a Jonidan and Jonokuchi Yusho in the process.) and has only suffered 3 Make-Koshi his entire year (2 of them in his first basho in Makuuchi and Juryo.) Since his second tournament in Makuuchi, he has become a supernova. In September of 2023, the then 20 year old lead the tournament almost the whole way through, losing in the playoffs to Ozeki Takakeisho. He followed that up with a runner up performance next tournament, losing out in the potential win in the final few days. Both times he finished 11-4, and he jumped up all the way to Maegashira 1, where, as I said before, he has looked decent.

So why Atamifuji, what’s so special that he has been succeeding so much? Well, being apart of the Isegahama stable, under the tutelage of the current and former Yokozuna, has lead to him and several other wrestlers (Nishikifuji, Takarufuji, Satorufuji) all finding a ton of success and ease in climbing the ranks. Takarufiji so far is 9-0 in his debut tournament at Juryo for example. Terunofuji, expected to inherit the stable once he retires, has a good crop of young Rikishi all expected for big things.

Another thing going for Atamifuji is his already blossoming popularity. Watch any Atamifuji match this tournament and you’ll find an army of fans cheering him on with many signs praising him. He is more emotional then more rikishi, showing a little more happiness or disappointment then the average Rikishi (similar to the always cheerful Ura) and that has attracted a fun fanbase that the JSA almost certainly hopes will stay with him if he makes it higher in the ranks.

It’s a lot of pressure for sure, and while I hope to see him go far (he’s a really fun Rikishi to watch) I hope the expectations of many aren’t getting to him completely. He’s a really good Rikishi, and at this age a lot will be expected of him. It’s a matter of time before we see if he can handle being one of Japan’s biggest hopes for a Japanese Yokozuna. Thanks for reading.

The Rookie Class Heading into Natsu 2023

The yearly mega class of recruits has joined Ozumo! Im a bit late to this one (apologies) but we still have the list in hand and some sort of description of who’s in. Lets take a look.

20th New Rikishi Of The Year: Daishoeki (Oitekaze)

18 year old Hiroto Misaki joins Oitakaze Heya. The serious looking Rikishi is a promising Rikishi, being in the final tournament at interhigh and won 3 Kagawa prefecture tournaments. He joins a series of low tier prospects from his high school (Takamatsu Minami) with him being the most promising. Expect some decent things out of him, but hard to tell on his upside (he’s got the size already at 140 Kgs.

21. Daibasho (Oitekaze)

Having just turned 15, Daibasho is the lesser of the two Oitekaze recruits. Clearly not fully grown, as he is just 166 cm tall and 104 Kg’s in weight, he has some sumo experience. Only one tournament known, a third place performance in a Gifu prefecture tournament, and he did Boxing and Horse riding before putting himself into the sport. Good ceiling for him as it seems he took up the new sport with ease, but he will struggle early. Hopefully he has a good head on his shoulders and we can see him go far.

22. Yumenofuji (Isegahama)

One of the 3 new recruits for the Yokozuna led stable is Yumeofuji (name taken from his real name, Yumejiro Nakamura.) While the stable has gone through a rough start to the year, the hope is that Terunofuji’s return can energize everyone in the stable. The 15 year old has a good height and weight (184 Cm and 130 Kg’s) and has some experience, finishing 5th with his high school team in previous tournaments.

23. Makatofuji (Isegahama)

Mystery Rikishi! Can’t find anything on this dude. He is pretty big at 144 Kgs and isn’t the tallest at 175 Cm’s. That’s it really. His size should help him through the first tournament, and I’d assume he has a bit of experience being that big, but who knows really

24. Masarufuji (Isegahama)

Isegahama hides another Rikishi from any real press. 15 year old Masarufuji looks not for the part, weighing a low 85 Kgs. Compared to someone like Daibasho who is younger by a few months, Masaru just seems like he joined the wrong sport. But, skinny people (for Ozumo) have gotten high jumps through good technique, so it’s yet to be seen if he can pull a good run off.

25. Miyatani (Musashigawa)

No sumo experience for this 15 year old. Miyatani weighs in at 122 kgs and at the height of 179 cm. A run of the mill recruit for Musashigawa who never recruits the spectacular, he is probably not making it past Jonidan. He does have some Judo experience which might come in handy.

26. Soseizan (Nishonoseki)

A couple things to mention. First this is one of Nishonseki’s most important classes (reasons we will get to near the end) and this being one of his 5 recruits. Secondly, I have to mention how dapper all three look here. The recruit is rivaling both the principal and master. I bring these things up as Soshi Sato here has little known outside of the essentials. 18 years of age, the size of a wrestler at 140 kgs. Already tall at 186 cm’s as wekk. Hard to figure anything about the lad outside of his age probably giving him an edge over those around him.

27 and 28. Datenoumi and Datenomori (Nishonoseki)

I’m really mad at Nishonoseki for these names. Ren and Zen Lino are two big twins (180 kgs and 184 kgs) who both have only elementary school experience, doing judo in Middle and High School. Both are 18, and have the weight to survive the inexperience.

29. Fujiso (Nishonoseki)

Finishing off the non Tsukedashi recruits for Nishonoseki is Yudai Fujiso. The 18 year old is 186 Cm’s in height and 135 Kg’s wide. With his hair nearly reaching his eyes, you’d think the hairdresser at the stable will have a tough job on his hands. He has made it to Interhigh twice, made a runner’s up performance in his prefecture, and is the star student for his high school’s sumo team. Will the lack of top tier prospects so far, Fujiso might be a star in the pack.

30. Kuwae (Futagoyama)

18 year old Kuwae (173 cm, 122 Kg) is decently known in the amateur sumo field. At Mukainooka Technical High School, he helped lead his team to the top 16 at Interhigh. Outside of that, his name (Justine France Pascual) shares an air of international appeal (though he was born in Japan.) Some size gain and maybe a couple more centimeters to his height could make him a great rikishi.

31. Kiyonoyama (Dewanoumi)

In the past year, Dewanoumi have gone out of their way to bring in Rikishi, beefing up the once small stable. This was probably due to Mitakeumi’s Ozeki promotion (which is now null and void, but I guess the money increase is still there.) The Rikishi (on the right) joins his brothers Kiyota and Kiyonohana at the stable. A small 175 Cm’s and 89 Kgs (though he is 15) he has experience in the middle school field, making it in the National Middle School Athletic meeting as an individual. With size and time, he could turn into a promising prospect.

32. Higonomaru (Kise)

The well run Kise stable (Home to Ura, Kinbozan, Tokushoryu) brings in a decent prospect here. Hignomoru, the younger brother of Makushita regular Hignoumi, is 18 years old and comes in at 184 cm and 145 Kgs. He has been competing Sumo since the 6th grade and competed at the Kokutai last year. He has had several stays at the stable, basically getting ready for a debut. The extra prep should help him out a big

33. Keiga (Futagoyama)

15 year old Yuto Onodera is Futagoyama’s second recruit. 183 Cm’s at 120 Kgs, Keiga has some decent experience, winning the Tochigi Prefecture Championships more then once. He won’t be someone who starts off as a superstar, but he could turn into a serious prospect a couple years down the line (check back in 3 years.)

34. Katsunishiki (Nishikido)

This is the face of someone who just joined a stable with only one other Rikishi. Kenshin Nakamura (15, 164 cm, 95 Kgs) joins Mitoryu as the now 2 wrestler stable. Obviously not going to be a superstar, as he has no experience in the sport and only has some Judo for his sporting background. The extra one on one time could be useful.

35. Saito (Tamanoi)

Nothing I can find on this Rikishi. 15 years old, 172 cm and 114 kgs. He’s got the weight to not be terrible right off the bat, but who knows experience wise.

36. Soma (Futagoyama)

We got a promising Rikishi here. Futagoyama’s third recruit is 18 year old Shinya Soma. Coming in at 178 cm and 129 kgs, he looks the part ( joins Soseizan in the dapper clothes gang) and also has some experience. A member of the Kurobane High School team, his elder brother Kotakiyama is a Sandanme regular. Hoping to pass him, the younger Soma was a member of the national Middle School Yusho team a couple years ago. Keep an eye out for him.

37. Shimabukuro (Hanaregoma)

18 year old Shimabukuro comes from Okinawa, and a former captain for his sumo club at Chubu Agricultural High School. He comes in at 175 Cm and 128 Kg’s. Biggest achivement was leading his team to a third place finish at the National Tournament for High Schoolers, a good accomplishment for a high schooler.

38. Sachinoyama (Takadagawa)

Another skinny rikishi, Sachinoyama is a 16 year old coming in at 78 kgs (and a short 168 cm’s.) Younger brother of skinny Jonidan Rikishi Maniwayama (94 kg’s) and too his credit, he has done well in elementary and middle school prefecture tournaments. Size will be his glass ceiling, and will probably be stuck at his brother’s level.

39. Sogo (Ajigawa)

Another unknown Rikishi, Sogo joins the recently created Ajigawa Heya. 181 cm tall and 78 Kg’s. Seems he will be a bottom feeder unless it turns out he’s been doing a ton of sumo before going pro.

40. Takeuchi (Michinoku)

Another Rikishi I can’t find much on, Yuto Takeuchi joins a Michinoku stable going through it’s own bullying scandal as well as Kiribayama trying to make Ozeki. He is 171 cm tall and 85 Kgs at 15 years old.

41. Chiyorozan (Kokonoe)

The well run Kokonoe stable (Known for their stable of Chiyo’s, such as Chiyoshoma, Chiyomaru, etc.) brings in Chiyorozan. A 19 year old who competed in Sumo since 4th grade, he has experience fighting into high school and doing well in tournaments, making it to regional tournaments in Kyushu. He also joins the dapper suit club some of the Rikishi in this list have been in.

42. Hoshi (Asahiyama)

Joining the unknown Asahiyama stable is 18 year old Hoshi. 178 Cm’s and 128 Kgs. No one in the stable is above Sandanme, and his size coming in puts him around 4th in the entire stable. Him and Tokinishki are the future for the stable, and I wouldn’t be shocked if he gets extra training so he can can become good.

43. Asasakurai (Takasago)

Takasago’s one recruit is a 15 year old I know little on. He’s 173 cm tall, with a weight of 131 Kgs. Again, very little is known, but weight is already there.

44. Kazeyuki (Oshiogawa)

Last year, Oshiogawa brought in Kazekeno, who won the Jonokuchi tournament. Now they hope to go 2/2, bringing in 18 year old Kazeyuki here. A short 167 cm and 128 kgs, he has been fighting since middle school. Teammate of Kazekeno since they were young, he has wins against former High School Yokozuna’s and several decent names at Interhigh and other events.

45. Fujihara (Tokisukaze)

Big lad Fujihara is 15 years old and is already 183 Cm tall and 151 kgs in weight. The grandson of former sekiwake Kurohimeyama. It sounds like has has no Sumo experience, and didn’t even work with his cousin Tanakayama (Makushita regular) in getting in (both are at different stables now.) He is young enough to make gradual jumps though.

46. Satokaneko (Nishiiwa)

The 15 year old Satokaneko, younger brother of Jonidan prospect Wakakaneko, joins him at another low tier stable, Nishiiwa (with only one Rikishi in Sandanme.) He is 168 cm, and 66 kgs. He probably has some experience due to his brother, but nothing notable.

47. Ryuji (Onomatsu)

Multi sport athlete Ryuji Yasumasa joins Onomatsu Heya (most recently known for being in Yes Theory’s Video on Sumo, look like a good bunch of Rikishi.) He is 18 years old and is 186 Cm’s tall and 109 Kg’s wide. He played Badminton, Soccer, Swimming, Kickboxing, Softball, and most recently in his High School’s sumo club. He won the Below 100 KG prefecture qualifier tournament for Interhigh, showing he has talent is there. We will see how long he lasts though, as him being a sport hopper is a red flag

48. Kotomunakata (Sadogatake)

15 year old Kotomunakata joins Sadagotake heya. He is at 178 Cm and 142 Kgs. Another unknown on the list, I feel bad that I can’t find anything on most of these guys.

49. Akenonami (Tatsunami)

Our 10th Rikishi with nothing known, Akenonami is a 19 year old who is 174 centimeters tall and 122 Kg’s in weight. Age should be what puts him above some of the other recruits.

50. Itoga (Sakaigawa)

Last one of the unknowns. Itoga is a 15 year old joining the likes of Hiradoumi and Sadanoumi at Sakaigawa. He is 174 Cm and 115 Kgs.

51. Haruyama (Onoe)

A hyped up prospect. Haruyama (181 Cm, 141 Kg) joins Onoe Heya from Nihon University. Having been competing since before 4th grade (with posts dating back to 2010 mentioning him) he is a much accomplished Rikishi. Runner up in the 2018 Interhigh and Kanazawa tournaments. Instead of going pro after that, he decided to go to college. There, he made it to the Semi Finals of the Kaiya Buisness-Student Championship, semi’s in the Usa Tournament. He has the most experience out of any of the bottom ranking Rikishi.

52. Shiroma (Onoe)

Another college Rikishi for Onoe, 23 year old Shiroma joins from Nihon University (and is a teammate with the man above, Haruyama) He is 180 Cm tall, and 178 Kg’s in weight. Less successful then Haruyama, he still has a top 8 performance at Interhigh, and a second place performance at West Japan, a big college tournament. While these two recruits look great, and will bring Onoe Heya to good things, there is one recruit greater then the rest

53. Onosato (Nishonoseki)

Starting out at Makushita 10 (which means a Yusho automatically puts him in Juryo) is 22 year old Onosato. To describe this wrestler as hyped would be an understatement. First, he comes in at 192 cm tall and weighs 177 kgs. Next, his accomplishments. Former East Japan and West Japan winner, Wakayama Coporate-College winner, 2 time Kokutai Winner, and All Japan Winner (biggest achievement in the amateur ranks I think.) High, high, HIGH expectations for this Rikishi, who has done everything he can as an amateur. Watch out for him.

Got a couple more posts cooking up, some retiring Rikishi need send offs and a check up on Nishonoseki is needed. Thanks for reading.

Hatsu 2023: Who Is In Lead In The Makushita Division

We got 8 Rikishi left in the race to become the winner of the Makushita division. From former Tsukedashi’s from Universities too veterans of the division for years now. Lets go over these undefeated Rikishi.

Ms3w Kawazoe 4-0

A top tier Rikishi, Kawazoe has been all Kachi-Koshi’s in his first 3 tournaments, and continues that here. The Hakuho/Miyagino recruit is a former College Yokozuna and is clearly a top standout already. While he hasn’t blasted through like former Corporate Yokozuna Ochiai, he is clearly ready for Juryo promotion, having so far beaten fellow promotion candidates Mineyaiba and Fujiseiun, current Juryo Rikishi Tochimusashi, and former Juryo Rikishi Chiyosakae. A strong contender for the win.

Ms6e Shiden 4-0

Caught up in the Hidenoumi Gambling scandal of last year, Shiden’s first Juryo compitition was cut short big time, now going on a year without making it back up and not having a single matchup in the division. With a Yusho, or a lucky 6-1, he might be able to make a grand return giving good banzuke luck. He has so far defeated both former Juryo Chiyonoumi and top prospects Shishi and Mukainakano. Good cast of people to have beaten

Ms19e Yoshii 4-0

Former High School Yokozuna Yoshii has a Makushita Yusho to his name, beating out now top tier Makuuchi rikishi Ryuden in the final bout. Coming into his own as a wrestler, he looked not at the level of top Makushita until this tournament, where he has beaten former Makuuchi Chiyonoo, quickly rising Setonoumi (who has hit a wall this tournament) and slower rising Nishioryu. We will see if this keeps up.

Ms26e Ryuo 4-0

A quickly rising veteran, Ryuo has jumped up now a couple times, making it to mid Makushita. He has been on this list twice now, September of last year and January of this year. So far beating prospects Nabatame, Hokutenkai, and former Juryo Rikishi for 2 Basho Kotoyusho, Ryuo has done good against strong competition and hopes to continue up the ranks

Ms27w Kayo 4-0

A Nishonoseki/Kisenosato grab, Kayo has become a bit of a force. A former College standout, he got a Sandanme Tsukedashi qualification and has Kachi-Koshi’d to upper-mid Makushita, reaching his first Make-Koshi last tournament. Now 4-0, beating former Makuuchi Rikishi Kitaharima and impressively fast rising Kazuto so far, he looks primed to make up those past mistakes and potentially claim his first Yusho in the process.

Ms43w Kairyu 4-0

Makushita regular for over 13 years, Kairyu has won a Yusho here…11 years ago. A consistant presence in the division, Kairyu hopes to potentially grasp a big rise in these late days of his career. So far, he has not faced the most noteable of Rikishi, Chiyotora, a slow prospect, being the most famed.

Ms50e Kaizan 4-0

On the run of his career, Kaizan was a former regular of the Makushita division before an injury drop to Jonidan brought him on his current run. A 12 fight win streak, with wins over Wakanosho, Toseiryu and Asonoyama in process, have put him back to Makushita where he remains undefeated. A Sandanme Yusho was the big prize he won last tournament, and he hopes to continue this great run of form to gain a second Yusho.

Ms59w Kainoshima 4-0

Hoping to become a standout, Kainoshima has been hovering up and around Makushita for most of his career. He is rather unknown due to this, no big Yusho runs outside of a runner up run in 2020. He has fought some good prospects, beating fast rising Raiho and slower rising Ienoshima. A Yusho here and he might etch his name in the sport.

Thank you for reading, plan to have a post on all the lower division winners after Day 13.

Takakeisho’s Yokozuna Run [Day6/15]: Mitakeumi

We skip Day 5, and enter Day 6. Takakeisho is 3-2. He needs to continue this run he has been going on and he will need to do that against an opponent he has an equal record against. The second former Ozeki Takakeisho has had to face (first being his Day 3 win over Shodai.) and now with his knee wrapped up in bandage, his journey becomes just that much harder.

Opponent Review: Mitakeumi

Mitakeumi has gone through his own injury problems. A hurt arm sent him packing after just a half year at Ozeki. He is now at the Maegashira ranks, and is clearly not at the level which got him the Ozeki rank in the first place. He will need his arm to really heal if he has any shot at a comeback, but at this point the damage might be done. Can Takakeisho capitalize on this glaring weakness?

The Match

Long standoff, both squat, Mitakeumu touches first. Big collision, Taka pushes forward. Mitakeumi stands his ground, and Taka doesn’t have the power! Mitakeumi pushes back, Taka goes for it again, but the inital attack and best chance at a win is thwarted. Both circle each other, slapping each others hands and trying to get a good grasp or push. Mitakeumi finally does, as Taka runs out of steam! Another push, and the current Ozeki is out! That might be it for the Yokozuna run! Taka might be out of power due to the injury or maybe even the pressure of the overall run.

Takakeisho’s Yokozuna Run [Day4/15]: Abi

Takakeisho is up against a man who beat him in November for the yusho. This Rikishi has had his number in an overall sense, and will be looking to test the durability of the Ozeki. Once limping yesterday, can Takakeisho get past:

Opponent Review: Abi

We all know him, and most dislike him. Former breaker of COVID rules, Abi went hard in his comeback to Makuuchi, and now has gained a Yusho in the controversial 3 way playoff with Takakeisho and Takayasu (this was the match where he basically henka’d Takayasu and injured him unintentionally.) Abi is 5-3 against Takakeisho, and it’s going to come down to Takakeisho’s improvements and fired up spirit.

The Match

Takakeisho’s ankle is red. The injury I thought might be there yesterday is for sure there now.

Touch down, Abi gets more above in his slaps. Or so I thought! Abi pulls frome the back of the head and pulls! Takakeisho falls forward, stops and is basically hopping on one foot. Abi gets behind, and pushes the Ozeki off and onto the floor! Wow. The Ozeki is 2-2 all of a sudden! He needs the Yusho to have any hope for the promotion, and if Abi can pull that with Taka’s ankle, it looks more and more unlikely!

The Rookie Class Heading into Haru 2023

As Ochiai went 7-0 and sped through Makushita, 9 More Rikishi began their careers in Maezumo. Today, I will go over these Maezumo results as well as talk about each recruits history. We could be seeing some of these guys in the Salaried ranks in the coming years, and this is a great jumping off point for learning about them.

11th New Rikishi Of The Year. Gonoumi (Takekuma)

18 year old Shunsuke Seigo (previously under the last name Takayama) is the High School Yokozuna with doubt surrounding potential success. While being described as having good skill, the Takekuma recruit is considered weaker then most past High School Yokozuna’s (a rank past held by Kitanowaka and Ochiai.) He lost in the first round in the All Japan tournament, a sign that he isn’t ready for more experienced Rikishi yet. He had a 3-2 record in Maezumo, losing to two people who both got 3 wins and beating 3 people who got Make-Koshi’s. While the potential is clearly there, it might take a minute to really get any big gains going.

12. Satorufuji (Isegahama)

Teppi Kuwabara (18) comes from Hiryu High, and joins the Yokozuna’s Isegahama stable. He also joins a long history of Rikishi from his High School, as Sekitori Atamifuji and Midorifuji and former amateur standout Hayatefuji all come from Hiryu. His schools have both had success with him on the team, with both his Middle School (Yaizu Minato) and Hiryu winning national tournaments. In Maezumo, he went a good 3-1, being ranked second best for the Banzuke with his only loss coming against the one undefeated Rikishi (which I will get too.) He was on Mikawa’s 2018 Middle School Banzuke, though tied for the lowest rank and not much known for individual accomplishments. (http://www.sumoforum.net/forums/topic/38825-middle-school-banzuke-2018/?tab=comments#comment-388505)

13. Nagamura (Kise)

Another member of the Hiryu High team, Nagamura splits off from his teammate to join the Kise Heya, home to Ura and Kinbozan. He was highly sought after from stables, with many considering him a top tier prospect. He has the same team success, but has gotten 5th place in the National Select High School and Interhigh tournaments, showing himself to be a individual standout. He was ranked much higher then Satorufuji (M5 vs M12) in Mikawa’s middle school Banzuke (though different years, http://www.sumoforum.net/forums/topic/38825-middle-school-banzuke-2018/?tab=comments#comment-388505). A pusher thruster, he has been known to struggle when it comes to the mawashi and it might become his big issue.

14. Agora (Ajigawa)

Iima Lucas comes from a varied background. Only recently becoming Japanese, his father is Brazilian and his mother is French and Italian. After playing Rugby, the 23 year old was going to leave Japan to work in France before being approached by the heya. He becomes the Heya’s second rikishi, with Anzakura (nephew of Ajigawa) being the first. He is big, at 155 Kg’s, but he has no Sumo skill to speak of at this time, going 1-4 against the experienced recruits.

15. Wakaikari (Isenoumi)

The son of Kabutoyama Oyakata (ex Oikari) is from the well known Saitama Sakae team. Turning just 18 before this tournament, he is a small fighter at only 109 Kgs and 175 Cm in height. Regardless, he has some known experience, being the runner up in the under 100 kg category and being a known master of throwing his opponents to the dirt. He went 3-1, losing to the much bigger Satorufuji by pushout. If he can get a better defense for those pushes, he could be a favorite for high rise.

16. Kobayashi (Kasugano)

Overlooked due to some of the other prospects, Kobayashi (18) is another Saitama Sakae recruit. A member of the team event that got second at Interhigh, Kobayashi also has some single competition success, getting third at a national Usa tournament as well as top 8 at the Kokutai. Once the captain of Iruma Junior Sumo Club (following in the footsteps of known Makuuchi members Hokutofuji and Daieisho) he was more hyped up in his middle school days, being ranked at M1 in Mikawa’s Middle school banzuke (http://www.sumoforum.net/forums/topic/39833-middle-school-banzuke-2019/). He isn’t as fast or promising as the other Rikishi, going 2-3 with losses against Nagamura, Gonoumi, and Wakaikari.

17. Miyaji (Takadagawa)

Near nothing is known for the 18 year old. In middle school he was a track star, winning a long throw competition. Outside of that, he is a skinny Rikishi who went 0-4 in Maezumo.

18. Asahakuryu

Coming on the same flight as current Sekiwake Hoshoryu and former Juryo winner Oshoma, 23 year old Asahakuryu is a big time prospect due to his experience. Already fighting Makushita tier Rikishi at the Takasago Heya (home to former Ozeki Asanoyama) he was a university Rikishi before joining Ozumo. He fought alongside Hoshoryu in high school, and has fought in the Sumo club since the plane landed. He was Top 8 in the National Student Weight Division Championships alongside Top 16 in the overall National Student Championships. Not as flashy as the two on the same flight, he is expected to make it to Upper Makushita at the very least and he went unefeated in Maezumo.

19. Tokinishiki (Asahiyama)

Joining the small Asahiyama heya, Tokinishiki is the most promising Rikishi in the stable, though that’s not saying much. The 19 year old got 4th in a local Kyushu Tournament, which is his only known achievement. Not super big at 125 Kg’s, he is the other Mongolian joining the sport. He went a disappointing, though not unexpected 1-4 in Maezumo, only beating Agora.

Predictions

As we are on Day 4, I won’t make some big “in the moment” predictions. Instead, some long term looks. Asahakuryu looked a level above everyone else, and is probably taking the Yusho and a few more on his way to Makushita. Satorufuji, Nagamura, and Gounoumi look to be on the same level of sorts, with Gounoumi looking a bit nervous which is probably due to the expectations of High School Yokozuna. Wakaikari looked good, though I could see his size stopping him from getting past 5 wins in his rise. Kobayashi looked okay, though I think his limit is Sandanme. Tokinishiki is not as good as other Mongolian Rikishis, but I could see a similar rise to Toseiryu (slow first basho, quick rise after due to weaker competition) Agora and Miyaji are the bottom feeders, both being lucky to get Kachi-Koshi’s here. Agora could be something with his size if he trains hard enough, plus he will be getting a bunch of 1 on 1 time with Ajigawa Oyakata. Thank you for reading this if you made it this far!