Summary; Cumulative Statistics; Selected Comparisons with November 2021 Basho and Index to all Videos and Photos (Scroll to the bottom of the page)

Links to selected Basho (Tournament) Blog Posts--March 2020--Present

NOTE: CHRIS SUMO YOUTUBE HAS ORGANIZED ALL OF HIS VIDEOS FOR THIS BASHO INTO A PLAYLIST:

JANUARY 2022 SUMO: THE FULL 15! (23 VIDEOS, ALMOST ALL LESS THAN 10 MINUTES. REQUIRED VIEWING FOR NEW (AND NOT SO NEW) SUMO FANS.

THE PLAYLIST IS IN CHRONOLOGICAL ORDER AND INCLUDES HIS DAILY REPORTS AND BEST LOWER DIVISION BOUTS REPORTS. 

===============================

January 2022 (Hatsu) Basho (Tournament)

Introduction and Previews (including 2 Fred Pinkerton height x weight scatter plots)--links to all player information (ranking, prefecture or country of origin, date of birth, stable height, weight)

Day 1; Day 2; Day 3; Day 4; Day 5

Day 6; Day 7; Day 8; Day 9; Day 10

Day 11; Day 12; Day 13; Day 14; Day 15 

Summary; Cumulative Statistics; Selected Comparisons with November 2021 Basho and Index to all Videos and Photos (Scroll to the bottom of the page)

===============================

Match Videos: (For a full index, see below, under the summary)

Selected Chris Sumo Youtube Post Tournament Videos

Post Tournament videos will be added as they become available.

All NHK Video Highlights from one link (available through February 6). Note: Full match videos may be available at other Youtube sites. They are bootleg videos that are copyright violations. I will not link to them, but a simple Youtube query will allow you to find them.

Daily Japan Sumo Association Youtube Videos (no commentary): see below under Index

Post Tournament:

Japan Sumo Association

Mitakeumi Ozeki Promotion Ceremony (Japanese) 

Chris Sumo Youtube

January 26: Mitakeumi's Ozeki Promotion 

More will be added as they become available

++++

The January 2022 Basho Banzuke featured 649 Rikishi (wrestlers) in 6 Divisions. There were 2,272 results. (Source: Ichimon results listing at Sumo Forum--see below).

Notable:

Mitakeumi (S1e) (13-2) won the Yusho (Japan Sumo Association Youtube) by beating Yokozuna Terunofuji (11-4) by Yorikiri (Frontal Force Out) in a 7 second match that he dominated almost from the start. It was the last match of a wild day in which there could have been a three way playoff had the Yokozuna won. Earlier, Abi (M6w) (12-3) had beaten (JSA Youtube) Kotonowaka (M14e) (11-4) by Hikiotoshi (Hand Pull Down) in one of (if not the most) exciting matches of the entire Basho. It was a 15.7 second wild, back and forth, both men surviving at the edge struggle. That knocked Kotonowaka out of contention. Abi had to then wait through 10 matches before the finale. 

All credit is due to Mitakeumi, for the entire Basho and this match, but there was speculation as to whether Teru might have injured one of his knees during a loss (JSA Youtbe) to Meisei (K1e) by Katasukashi (Under Shoulder Swing Down) on Day 12. He won on Day 13 but looked like the injury had taken a toll when he gingerly walked off the Dohyo (Ring) after. And he looked like the knee was bothering him again after the final match.   

However, even if the Yokozuna had been 100 percent fit, he would have still had his hands full against the winner. Mitakeumi has been criticized in the past for petering out at the end of Basho, for possible lack of concentration at times, and for failure to fulfill what seemed limitless expectations. Whatever credence those criticisms may have had, he "put them to bed" in this Basho. Bolting out of the blocks with 9 consecutive wins (6 by Oshidashi--Frontal Push out, and 3 by Yorikiri--Frontal Force out), he was like a runaway train, unstoppable and blowing out of the way anything that came into his path. It was a relentless journey and one that constantly challenged his powers of concentration (according to his own quotes). But he never lagged, and when it was over, he won not only his 3rd Top Division Yusho (all as a Sekiwake, third highest rank, an unprecedented feat), but also his third Technique Prize (Gino-sho), proving that a Rikishi doesn't have to have a toolbox full of finishing moves when only a few, executed to perfection, are needed to accommodate his style of Sumo. His final win was also his 33rd over the last three Basho, paving the way to promotion to Ozeki, the 2nd highest Rank in the sport. Only Ozeki can be promoted to Yokozuna. And, to top it off, he became the first Rikishi from Nagano Prefecture to reach Ozeki Rank since the legendary Raiden, "peerless Rikishi" and only non-Yokozuna who's name is inscribed on the Yokozuna Stone, who won an astounding 96% of his matches. Raiden was promoted to Ozeki in 1795 (yes that is 1795, 6 years after the French Revolution).

Terunofuji had a very good Basho but faded at the end and missed a chance to become the first Yokozuna to win his first 3 Basho as a Yokozuna since 32nd Yokozuna Taminishiki in 1919. He won his first 5 matches and 10 of his first 11, before losing 3 of his last 4. He won his 11 matches with 6 different Kimarite (finishing moves), 5 of which came in the first 7 Days. 5 of his last 6 wins came via Yorikiri. The sting of not winning the Yusho may have been alleviated somewhat by the 288 Kensho envelopes (sponsors' winning match prizes--about the equivalent of 630 US dollars per envelope) he won over the course of the Basho. That was 99 more envelopes than Mitakeumi, although the Basho Champion did take 55 envelopes away from the Yokozuna in the final Match. 

  

Mitakeumi now joins Takakeisho and Shodai at the rank of Ozeki. In this time of transition, when the two Yokozuna have retired in the last year, when the sport has lost arguably the greatest practitioner in its centuries long history (Hakuho), the presence of a crop of strong Ozeki is of great importance. Terunofuji rocketed up the Banzuke (Ranking Tables) and quickly reached Yokozuna. But the other three Ozeki in the last 2 years (Asanoyama has been suspended and when he returns will have to fight his way back from 3rd Division [Makushita--non salaried], have flattered to deceive. All three of them have been Kadoban (a losing tournament record which, if followed by another, means demotion from Ozeki), and frankly, disappointing. Takakeisho pulled out of this Basho early with an ankle injury and Shodai finished with an embarrassing 6-9 record. The sport, it seems, is slightly diminished with only one Yokozuna. Perhaps Mitakeumi will succeed as the other three have so far failed.

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Yusho Race (links are to each Rikishi's match by match performance--source: Sumo Reference) Record listed is the sum of the opponents record at the end of each bout--top 4 contenders only

Day              1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15  

Day 15 Contenders

Mitakeumi (S1e)  1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9  9 10 10 11 12 13 (62-58) 

Abi (M6w)        1 2 3 4 5 6 6 6 7  8  9 10 10 11 12 (67-53)

Terunofuji (Y1e) 1 2 3 4 5 5 6 7 8  9 10 10 11 11 11 (60-60)

Kotonowaka (M14e)1 2 2 3 3 4 5 6 7  7  8  9 10 11 11 (68-52)     

Other 10+wins

Hoshoryu (M6e)   1 1 2 2 3 3 4 5 6  6  7  8  9 10 11

Ishiura (M12e)   1 2 2 2 3 3 4 4 5  6  7  8  9 10 11

Onosho (M5e)     1 2 3 4 4 4 5 6 6  6  7  8  9 10 10 

Summary: of Mitakeumi's Tournament, Day by Day

Day links to video of each match (Source for Videos 1-3,5: Chris Sumo Youtube--direct link to the bout; 4, 6-15: Japanese Sumo Association Youtube)

Key: Day; Time of match (seconds); Rank; Winner; Record; Kimarite; (Finishing Move); Rank; Loser; Record

Day 1:  03.2s S1e  Mitakeumi  (1-0)    oshidashi      M2e  Ura (0-1

Day 2:  07.6s S1e  Mitakeumi  (2-0)    oshidashi      M2w  Ichinojo (1-1)

Day 3:  15.0s S1e  Mitakeumi  (3-0)    yorikiri       M1e  Wakatakakage (0-3)

Day 4:  02.4s S1e  Mitakeumi  (4-0)    oshidashi      K1e  Meisei (2-2)

Day 5:  06.3s S1e  Mitakeumi  (5-0)    oshidashi      M1w  Kiribayama (1-4)

Day 6:  02.3s S1e  Mitakeumi  (6-0)    oshidashi      M3w  Endo (2-4)

Day 7:  05.1s S1e  Mitakeumi  (7-0)    yorikiri       M3e  Tamawashi (5-2)

Day 8:  09.7s S1e  Mitakeumi  (8-0)    oshidashi      K1w  Daieisho (3-5)

Day 9:  02.3s S1e  Mitakeumi  (9-0)    yorikiri       M4e  Okinoumi (2-7)

Day 10: 03.8s M4w  Hokutofuji (4-6)    oshidashi      S1e  Mitakeumi (9-1)

Day 11: 21.1s S1e  Mitakeumi (10-1)    yorikiri       O1w  Shodai (4-7)

Day 12: 02.3s M5e  Onosho     (8-4)    hikiotoshi     S1e  Mitakeumi (10-2)

Day 13: 05.7s S1e  Mitakeumi (11-2)    oshidashi      M6w  Abi (10-3)

Day 14: 06.4s S1e  Mitakeumi (12-2)    okuridashi     M7w  Takarafuji (9-5)

Day 15: 07.0s S1e  Mitakeumi (13-2)    yorikiri       Y1e  Terunofuji (11-4)

FULL MAKUUCHI (TOP DIVISION) BANZUKE (RECORD BY RANK) (Source: Sumo Reference) See legend at the bottom of the link for key to abbreviations.

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MITAKEUMI (S1E)--WINNER OF JANUARY 2022 BASHO

Kimarite (Finishing Move) Summary (total in Basho)

Source: Sumo Reference Bout Query

Winning:

Frontal Push Out (Oshidashi)................7(76)

Frontal Force Out (Yorikiri)................5(73)

Rear Push Out (Okuridashi)..................1(12)

Losing:

Frontal Push Out (Oshidashi)................1(76)

Hand Pull Down (Hikiotoshi).................1(14)

Winning: 

Out 13, Down 0

Frontal 12, Rear 1

Push 8, Force 5 

Losing

Out 1, Down 1

Frontal 1

Push 1, Pull 1

Hand 1

TERUNOFUJI (Y1e)--WINNER OF NOVEMBER 2021 BASHO

Kimarite (Finishing Move) Summary (total in Basho)

Source: Sumo Reference Bout Query 

Frontal Push Out (Oshidashi)................3(71)

Frontal Force Out (Yorikiri)................3(70)

Arm Barring Force Out (Kimedashi)...........2(2)

Hooking Inner Thigh Throw (Kakenage)........1(3)

Over Thigh Scooping Body Drop (Komatasukui).1(1)

Arm Lock Throw (Kotenage)...................1(2)

Frontal Push Down (Oshitaoshi)..............1(6)

Beltless Arm Throw (Sukuinage)..............1(2)

Over Arm Throw (Uwatenage)..................1(8)

Frontal Crush Out (Yoritaoshi)..............1(7)

Out 9; Down 6

Frontal 8; Barring 2; Hooking Inner 1; Scooping Body 1

Force 5; Push 4; Throw 4; Crush 1; Drop 1

Over 2

Arm 5; Thigh 2

++++

Match Time

Mitakeumi--January Basho 

Total Time: 1 minutes, 40.2 seconds (100.2)

Longest: 21.1 s (v Shodai, Day 11)

Shortest: 2.3 s (v Endo, Day 6; Okinoumi, Day 9; Onosho, Day 12)

Average 6.7 s

Median:  5.7 s

Mitakeumi Time (seconds/#)

0-4.9.......6

5-9.9.......7

10-19.9.....1

20-29.9.....1

Terunofuji Match Time--November Basho 

Total Time: 3 minutes, 54.1 seconds (231.4)

Longest: 38.7 s (v Ichinojo, Day 11)

Shortest: 3.4 s (v Endo, Day 8)

Average: 15.4 s

Median:   11.7 s 

Terunofuji Time (seconds/#)

0-4.9.......2

5-9.9.......4

10-19.9.....4

20-29.9.....4

30-39.9.....1

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Special Prizes: Source: Sumo Reference Sansho page

Gino-Sho (Technique Prize): Mitakeumi (S1w) (his 3rd)

Shukun-Sho (Outstanding Performance Prize): Abi (M6w) (his 1st)

Kanto-Sho (Fighting Spirit Prize): Kotonawaka (M14e) (his 2nd)

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Other Championships: Source for Banzuke (Record by Ranking Chart) is Sumo Reference. See legend at the bottom of each link for more information.

Division 2 (Juryo--salaried): KOTOSHOHO (J2w) (Playoff)

Kotoshoho (11-4) defeated Yago (J14w) (11-4) by Yorikiri (Frontal Force Out)

Direct link to full match video (Japan Sumo Association, no commentary)

Kotoshoho is on the left.

Another view: (Chris Sumo Youtube)

Kotoshoho's Basho

Full Juryo Banzuke

Both leaders lost on Day 15 to set up the playoff. The winner will be promoted to Makuuchi (Top Division), which he last participated in one year ago. This was his 2nd Juryo Yusho.

Quotable: "I was too tense against Nishikifugi (J9e--10-5) (a lost chance at the Yusho previously) But against Yaho I focused on the charge and earnestly drove forward." (Chris Sumo Youtube)

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MAKUSHITA--DIVISION 3: NISHIKAWA (M35e) (7-0)

Nishikawa defeated Ryuden (Ms5e) (6-1) by Hikiotoshi (Hand Pull Down).

Direct link to full match video (Chris Sumo Youtube)

Full match video from another angle (OneLoveLulit Twitter)

Ryuden has a top knot.

Nishikawa's Basho

Full Makushita Banzuke

Ryuden earned Juryo (2nd Division--salaried)  promotion even though he lost this Yusho match. His rank was high enough (barely) to get the promotion on his record alone. He is a long time ex-Makuuchi (Top Division) Rikishi and one time Komusubi (one of the Top Ranks) who is making his way back up after Covid restriction violations caused a 6 month suspension and demotion to M47w). This was Ryuden's only loss in two Makushita Basho.

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SANDANME-DIVISION 4: MUKAINAKANO (Sd81w) (Playoff)

Mukainakano (7-0) defeated Osani (Sd19e)  (7-0) by Yorikiri (Frontal Force Out)

Direct link to full match video (Chris Sumo Youtube)

Mukainakano's Basho 

Full Sandanme Banzuke

Quotable: "I get nervous easily, particularly in front of a big crowd. And so narrowed things down to one strategy and went for the blast out. I now want to push my way to Division 2 this year." 

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JONIDAN--DIVISION 5: ASAHANSHIN (Jd27w) (7-0)

Asahanshin defeated Kawamura (Jd69w) (6-1) by Okuritaoshi (Rear Push Down)

Direct link to full match video (Chris Sumo Youtube)

Another view (Zeal Twitter)

Asahanshin's Basho

Full Jonidan Banzuke

Quotable: "It was good I could track his movement so well. True, my legs got slightly tangled at the end, but my spirit got me through. It was like opening night nerves, but I vowed to go on the attack come what may."

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JONOKUCHI--DIVISION 6 : NAKASHIMA (Jk16w) (7-0)

Nakashima defeated Nishikimaru (Jk4w) (5-2) by Oshidashi (Frontal Push Out)

Full match video (Tachiai.org) 

Nakashima's Basho

Full Jonokuchi Banzuke

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Sekitori Leader Board Day by Day (Division 1--Makuuchi and 2--Juryo) (Sumo Forum)

Lower Division Leader Board (Beginning with Bout 3) (Division 3--Makushita, 4--Sandamne, 5--Jonidan, and 6--Jonokuchi) (Sumo Forum)

Stable Report (Sumo Forum--January Basho) 

Stable Report (Sumo Forum--Cumulative for March 2021 to January 2022 by winning percentage)

Stable Report (Sumo Forum--Cumulative 2021 by Kachi-koshi (winning record  percentage) (appears to be the same table posted after the NOvember 2021 Basho)

Stable (Beya) Guide (Japanese Sumo Association [in English])

Cumulative Basho Ichimon Statistics: (for component stables of each Ichimon as of August 2021, see Wikipedia listing, and sort by Ichimon). There are, at present (August 2021) 42 stables. There are 5 Ichimon.  Ichimon  "tend to cooperate closely on inter-stable training and the occasional transfer of personnel." (Wikipedia Sumo Glossary of terms)

Kensho Report (Sumo Forum--Day by Day)

Kensho refers to the envelopes that winning Rikishi receive after selected bouts. There is money in the envelopes (representing approximately 60,000 yen [about 550 US dollars]--note: these figures may be out of date), although there is only about half that amount of money in the envelopes. The money is put up by corporate sponsors, whose banners are paraded around the Dohyo (ring) before the match. The winner gets all the envelopes, but not all the money (Sumo Association gets some, etc.). For a more complete explanation see the Introductory Post. The higher ranked the Rikishi, for the most part, the more prize money that is put up.  

Terunofuji (Y1e) (11-4) finished with the most envelopes, 288, for an average of 26.2 envelopes per win.

Mitakeumi (S1e) (13-2) finished 2nd with 187 (including the 55 he earned by beating Terunofuji on Day 15), for an average of 14.4.

Abi (M6w) (12-3) finished 3rd with 93, for an average of 7.7. 

Kotonowaka (M14e) (11-4), the fourth contender on Day 15, finished with 52 envelopes, for an average of 4.7.  Abi took the 12 envelopes in their elimination match on Day 15. Kotonowaka finished 7th.

Kimarite (Finishing Move) Statistics for all Divisions (Sumo Forum--Forthcoming) 

Kimarite (Finishing Moves) Statistics for all Divisions (Sumo Reference)

To sort by Division, modify the query and check the Division(s) you are interested in. For Individual results, click on "expand). Note that each Kirmarite is counted twice, once for the winner and once for the loser. Simply divide all cumulative totals by 2.

It isn't as elegant as the Sumo Forum source, but is workable. 

13 finishing moves were used only once in the Tournament (11 winning and 2 non-winning (losing). One of those occurred in Makuuchi (Top Division). Ishiura used a Susoharai (Rear Foot Sweep) on Day 7.

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Number of winning Finishing Moves as a percent of all winning finishing moves (November Basho--10 wins or more)

Day 15 Contenders

Mitakeumi (S1e): 13-2

Winning: 3 of 13 (.231): Oshidashi 7; Yorikiri 5; Okuridashi 1

Losing: 2: Oshidashi 1; Hikiotoshi 1 

Abi (M6w): 12-3 

Winning: 5 of 12 (.416): Oshidashi 6; Hatakikomi 2; Hikiotoshi 2; Uwatenage 1; Tsukidashi 1

Losing: 3: Tsukiotoshi 1; Yorikiri 1; Oshidashi 1 

Terunofuji (Y1e): 11-4

Winning: 6 of 11 (.546): Hatakikomi 1; Kotenage 1; Uwatenage 2;  Tsukitaoshi 1; Yorikiri 5; Shitatenage 1

Losing: 4: Tsukiotoshi 1; Katasukashi 1; Oshidashi 1; Yorikiri 1 

Kotonowaka (M14e): 11-4

Winning: 7 of 11 (.636): Hikiotoshi 1; Hatakikomi 1; Yoritaoshi 1; Oshitaoshi 1; Katasukashi 1;  Oshidashi 4;  Uwatenage 2

Losing: 4: Yorikiri 2; Shitatenage 1; Hikiotoshi 1

Other 10+ Winners

Hoshoryu (M6e) 11-4

Winning: 8 of 11 (.727): Sotogake 1; Hikiotoshi 1; Hatakikomi 1; Shitatenage 2; Yorikiri 2; 

Oshidashi 2; Uwatedashinage 1; Uwatenage 1

Losing: 4: Oshidashi 1; Yoritaoshi 1; Uwatenage 1; Sukuinage 1 

Ishiura (M11e) 11-4

Winning: 6 of 11 (.545):  Yorikiri 3; Shitatenage 2; Oshidashi 2; Susoharai 1; Shitatehineri 2; Hikiotoshi 1

Losing 4: Oshidashi 1; Hatakikomi 2; Tsukidashi 1

Onosho (M5e) 10-5

Winning: 7 of 10 (.700):  Hatakikomi 1; Hikiotoshi 2; Oshidashi 3; Yoritaoshi 1;  Tsukiotoshi 1; Okuritaoshi 1; Kubinage 1

Losing 5: Tsukiotoshi 1; Yoritaoshi 1; Oshidashi ; Yorikiri; Katasukashi 1

++++

Finishing Moves (291 TOTAL--there were four Fusen--Forfeit) Note: finishing move links below link to short NHK videos demonstrating the technique.

Key: Finishing Move: #(January 2022--29, 27 winning and 2 non-winning; (losing);  #November 2021--30, plus 1 Fusen and 1 Hansuko (disqualification)

Source: Sumo Reference Bout Queries (divide by 2): 

January---November

Frontal Push Out (Oshidashi).................76--71

Frontal Force Out (Yorikiri).................73--70

Slap Down (Hatakikomi).......................18--29

Thrust Down (Tsukiotoshi)....................15--22

Hand Pull Down (Hikiotoshi)..................14--14

Rear Push Out (Okuridashi)...................12--11

Over Arm Throw (Uwatenage)...................12---8

Frontal Crush Out (Yoritaoshi)...............11---7

Frontal Push Down (Oshitaoshi)................9---6

Frontal Thrust Out (Tsukidashi)...............9--18

Under Arm Throw (Shitatenage).................7---5

Under Shoulder Swing Down (Katasukashi).......6---5

Pulling Over Arm Throw (Uwatedashinage).......5---5

Beltless Arm Throw (Sukuinage)................4---2

Arm Lock Throw (Kotenage).....................3---2

Rear Push Down (Okuritaoshi)..................2---0

Twisting Under Arm Throw (Shitatehineri)......2---1

Frontal Lift Out (Tsuridashi).................2---2

Leg Pick (Ashitori)...........................1---2

Minor Inner Foot Sweep (Kekaeshi).............1---1

Twisting Backward Knee Trip (Kirikaeshi)......1---1

Head Lock Throw (Kubinage)....................1---0

Twist Down (Makiotoshi).......................1---0

Outside Leg Trip (Sotogake)...................1---0

Rear Foot Sweep (Susoharai)...................1---1

Frontal Thrust Down (Tsukitaoshi).............1---2

Thigh Grabbing Push Down (Watashikomi)........1---1

Hooking Inner Thigh Throw (Kakenage)..........0---3

Arm Bar Throw (Tottari).......................0---3

Arm Barring Force Out (Kimedashi).............0---2

The Fisherman's Throw (Amiuchi)...............0---1

Over Thigh Scooping Body Drop (Komatasukui)...0---1

Pulling Under Arm Throw (Shitatedashinage)....0---1

Two Handed Head Twist Down (Tokkurinage)......0---1

Non-Technique (Losing Technique)

Forward Step Out (Isamiashi)..................1---0

Hand Touch Down (Tsukite).....................1---0

Honsoku (Disqualification)....................0---1

Fusen (Forfeit)...............................4---1

++++

Cumulative Match Times (January 2022--291 matches)

Total Time:  52 minutes 7.6 seconds (3127.6)

Longest Match: 178.4 s (Ichinojo v Takarafuji) (Day 12)

Shortest Match: 0.8 s (Hoshoryu v Takanosho) (Day 11)

Average (291 matches): 10.7 s 

Key: Time(number of matches)

Cumulative Average Per Day: D1-8.8(20); D2-6.5(20); D3-9.9(20); D4-11.4(19); D5-10.9(20); D6-7.5(20); D7-10.0(20); D8-13.3(20); D9-11.8(20); D10-11.1(20); D11-12.7(18); D12-17.8(18); D13-12.8(18); D14-7.7(19); D15-9.1(19)

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Cumulative Match Times (November--299 matches)

Total Time: 1 hour 37.3 seconds (3637.3)

Longest Match: 212.6 s (Takayasu v Shimanoumi) (Day 4)

Shortest Match: 0.4 s (Kotoeko v Terutsuyoshi) (Day 8)

Average (299 matches): 12.2 s 

Cumulative Average Per Day: D1-8.6; D2-13.1; D3-13.5; D4-15.7; D5-14.7; D6-14.3; D7-13.6; D8-13.7; D9-13.3; D10-12.8; D11-12.6; D12-12.9; D13-12.5; D14-12.4; D15-12.2

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Cumulative Match Times (September--283 matches)

Total Match Time: 59 minutes 36.7 seconds (3576.7) 

Longest Match: 203.4 s (Ichinojo v Takarafuji) (Day 11)

Shortest Match: 0.2 s (Meisei v Onosho (Day 14)

Average (283 matches): 12.6 s

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Cumulative Match Times (July--299 matches) 

Total Time: 57 minutes, 50.9 seconds (3470.9)

Longest Match: 179.3 s (2 minutes, 59.3 s) (Kiribayama v Takayasu) (Day 12)

Shortest Match: 0.7 s (Aoiyama v Daieisho)  (Day 14)

Average Time (299 matches): 11.6 s

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Time/Matches 

January 2022(291)--November 2021(299)--September(283)--July(299)

                 

                    January     November            September    July

0-4.9 seconds:    98(.337)------117(.391)----------114(.403)---100(.334)

5-9.9 seconds:    99(.340)------93(.311)-----------79(.279)----93(.311)

10-19.9 seconds:  60(.206)------52(.174)-----------50(.177)----70(.234)

20-29.9 seconds:  20(.068)------20(.067)-----------13(.046)----17(.056)

30-39.9 seconds:   5(.017)-------4(.013)-----------14(.049)----10(.033)

40-49.9 seconds:   5(.017)-------4(.013)------------2(.007)-----0

50-59.9 seconds:   2(.006)-------2(.007)------------3(.011)-----3(.010)

60-69.9 seconds:   0-------------1(.003)------------1(.004)-----2(.007)

70-79.9 seconds:   0-------------0------------------1(.004)-----2(.007) 

80-89.9 seconds:   0-------------1(.003)------------1(.004)-----1(.003)

90-99.9 seconds:   1(.003)-------0------------------1(.004)-----0  

100-109.9 seconds: 0-------------1(.003)------------1(.004)-----0

140-149.9 seconds: 0-------------1(.003)------------0-----------0

150-159.9 seconds: 0-------------0------------------1(.004)-----0

160-169.9 seconds: 0-------------1(.003)------------0-----------0

170-179.9 seconds: 1(.003)-------0------------------0-----------1(.003

180-189.9 seconds: 0-------------1(.003)------------0-----------0 

190-199.9 seconds: 0-------------0------------------1(.004)-----0 

200-209.9 seconds: 0-------------0------------------1(.004)-----0

210-219.9 seconds: 0-------------1(.003)------------0-----------0    

Match time information is archived at Honbasho Talk Discussion at Sumo Forum. (See Bout Length and scroll the Discussion for previous Basho).

++++

Kachi-koshi/Make-koshi (8 or more wins--promotion in rank/8 or more losses--demotion)

Key: Basho Day on which the minimum record was achieved; Rikishi; Rank; Current Record

Kachi-koshi: 16 Rikishi: 154 wins; 86 losses

Day 8: Mitakeumi (S1e) 13-2

Day 9: Terunofuji (Y1e) 11-4

Day 10: Abi (M6w) 12-3; Takarafuji (M7w) 9-6

Day 11: Kotonowaka (M14e) 11-4; Kotoeko (M17e) 8-7

Day 12: Onosho (M5e) 10-5; Hoshoru (M6e) 11-4; Ishiura (M12e) 11-4

Day 13: Aoiyama (M16e) 8-7

Day 14: Waktakakage (M1e) 9-6; Tamawashi (M3e) 8-7; Wakamotoharu (M15e) 9-6

Day 15: Ura (M2e) 8-7; Ichinojo (M2w) 8-7; Sadanoumi (M11e) 8-7

Make-koshi: 26 Rikishi: 134 wins; 206 losses; 48 absences

Day 8: Chiyonokuni (M9e) 4-11; Takakeisho (O1e) 1-3-11; Takayasu (M7e) 0-0-15; Hidenoumi (M8e) 0-0-15 

Day 9: Akua (M10w) 4-11

Day 10: Okinoumi (M4e) 4-11

Day 11: Daieisho (K1w) 7-8; Shimanoumi (M9w) 5-6-4 

Day 12: Chiyoshoma (M5w) 4-11; Chiyotairyu (M12w) 7-8; Yutakayama (M13w) 6-9; Ichiyamamoto (M14w) 5-10; Kaisei (M17w) 5-7-3

Day 13: Shodai (O1w) 6-9; Meisei (K1e) 5-10; Kiribayama (M1w) 6-9; Endo (M3w) 7-8; Hokutofuji (M4w) 6-9; Myogiryu (M10e) 5-8-2; Tsurugisho (M16w) 6-9

Day 14: Takanosho (S1w) 7-8; Tobizaru (M8w) 6-9; Terutsuyoshi (M11w) 7-8

Day 15: Chiyomaru (M13e) 7-8; Tochinoshin (M15w) 7-8; Oho (M18e) 7-8 

++++

Top Rank Wins (san'yaku--Yokozuna, Ozeki, Sekiwake, Komusubi)

Maegashira v san'yaku Standings (Rank and File [M1-18] v san'yaku [Yokozuna, Ozeki, Sekiwake, Komusubi])

Rookie

Juryo Substitute Standings

-----

Top Rank Wins

13-2: Mitakeumi (S1e)

11-4: Terunofuji (Y1e)  

7-8: Takanosho (S1w); Daieisho (K1w)

6-9: Shodai (O1w)

5-10: Meisei (K1e)

1-3-10: Takakeisho (O1e) (including 1 forfeit loss) 

Day 15 Total: 50--44--11 (.532)  In November they were 65-40.

Day 14 Total: 46--42--10 (.523)

Day 13 Total: 44--38---9 (.537)

Day 12 Total: 41--35---8 (.539)

Day 11 Total: 38--32---7 (.543)

Day 10 Total: 36--28---6 (.563)

Day  9 Total: 34--24---5 (.586)

Day  8 Total: 30--22---4 (.577)

Day  7 Total: 27--19---3 (.587)

Day  6 Total: 23--17---2 (.575)

Day  5 Total: 21--13---1 (.618)

Day  4 Total: 17--11 (.607)

Day  3 Total: 14---7 (.667)

Day  2 Total:  9---5 (.643) 

Day  1 Total:  4---3 (.571)

----

G2. Maegashira v san'yaku (defined as Komusubi, Sekiwake, Ozeki, and Yokozuna for these purposes) 

*=Kinboshi--Gold Star Win over Yokozuna

Tomawashi beat Terunofuji on Day 6

Abi beat Terunofuji on Day 14

Hoshoryu (M6e)      2-0

Kotonowaka (M14e)   1-0

Tamawashi* (M3e)    4-2

Onosho (M5e)        4-2

Abi (M6w)*          2-1

Ichinojo (M2w)      3-3

Kiribayama (M1w)    3-4(including 1 forfeit win)

Ura (M2e)           3-4  

Endo (M3w)          2-3 

Hokutofuji (M4w)    2-3

Takarafuji (M7w)    1-2 

Wakatakakage (M1e)  2-5

Okinoumi (M4e)      1-3

Myogiryu (M10e)     0-1

Chiyoshoma (M5w)    0-3

Win and Loss by Days 

Maegashira 5, san'yaku 7, 3 tied. In November they were 2-13. 

Day  15 Total 30-36 (.455) In November they were 21-46 (.358).

Day  14 Total 30-34 (.469)

Day  13 Total 26-32 (.448)

Day  12 Total 24-30 (.444)

Day  11 Total 22-28 (.440)

Day  10 Total 19-27 (.413)

Day   9 Total 16-26 (.381)

Day   8 Total 15-23 (.395)

Day   7 Total 13-21 (.382)

Day   6 Total 12-18 (.400)

Day   5 Total  9-17 (.346)

Day   4 Total  7-13 (.350)

Day   3 Total  4-11 (.267)

Day   2 Total  3--7 (.300)

Day   1 Total  2--3 (.400)

----

Rookies

F=fusen (forfeit)

Wakamotoharu (M15e) (1-0; 1-1; 2-1; 2-2; 2-3; 2-4; 3-4; 4-4; 5-4; 5-5; 6-5F; 7-5; 7-6; 8-6, 9-6)

Oho (M18e) (1-0; 2-0; 3-0; 3-1; 3-2; 4-2; 4-3; 5-3; 6-3; 7-3; 7-4; 7-5; 7-6; 7-7; 7-8)

----

Juryo (2nd Division) Substitutes

Day 1: None

Day 2: None

Day 3: None

Day 4: None

Day 5: Kagayaki (J1e) (1-0; 3-2) defeated Oho (M18e) (3-2) 

Day 6: Kaisei (M17w) (4-2) defeated Bushozan (J1w) (0-1; 0-6)

Day 7: Kotoeko (M17e) (5-2) defeated Nishikigi (J2e) (0-1; 3-4)

Day 8: Kotoshoho (J2w) (1-0; 7-1) defeated Tsurugisho (M16w) (3-5) 

Day 9: Daiamami (J3e) (1-0; 5-4) defeated Aoiyama (M16e) (4-5)

Day 10: Tochinoshin (M15w) (5-5) defeated Shohozan (J3w) (0-1;3-7)

Day 11: Kotokuzan (J4w) (1-0; 7-4) defeated Oho (M18e) (7-4)

Day 12: Kagayaki (J1e) (2-0; 8-4) defeated Kaisei (M17w) (5-6-4) by forfeit

Day 13: None

Day 14: Nishikigi (J2e) (1-1; 8-6) defeated  Ichiamamoto (M14w) (4-10)

Day 15: Kotokuzan (J4w) (2-0; 10-5) defeated Tsurugisho (M16w) (6-9)

Total:

Juryo Substitutes7; Makuuchi (Top Division) 3 (including 1 forfeit win) In November they were 1-2.

=======================

=======================

INDEX TO VIDEOS AND PHOTOS

Note: NHK videos will be available on demand through February 6, 2022.  After that, they will be removed from the site. There is a 27 minute video highlights package for each Day. It consists of full match videos of all Top Division matches for that day. In addition, for Day 1, Day 8, and Day 15, there is a 90 minute "live" telecast that covers the last 6-8 matches of the Day in real time.

NHK Highlights from one link.

Japanese Sumo Association provided between three and five videos per day, most in Makuuchi (Top Division). They also provided a few Juryo (2nd Division) bouts. JSA videos have sound but no commentary. Tachiai.org provided video coverage of the Jonokuchi (Division 6), mostly Jonokuchi, but also a smattering of Jonidan (Division 5) and Sandamne (Division 4). (See Daily Index Below)

Chris Sumo provided Daily coverage with video and commentary from that Day's action. He also provided several episodes of Lower Division highlights, again with commentary.

He has put all of his January Baso videos into a Playlist that is arranged in chronological order. Videos are usually between 5 and 10 minutes in length and are an excellent way to follow the Basho.

Chris Sumo January (Hatsu--New Year) Basho) Playlist--The Full 15!

Tachiai.org coverage of the Jonokuchi (Division 6--non salaried, lowest division) Basho. Note: The Japan Sumo Association links to all Jonokuchi Rikishi in its daily accounting of the Basho. (Under Banzuke, arrow to Jonokuchi). The Jonokuchi Basho, as with all Division 3-6 Basho, consist of 7 matches over the 15 Day Tournament. (See Daily Index Below).

Nikkan Sports and Sumo Forum provided all of the photo links. 

Day 1: 

Video: Japan Sumo Association

1. Terunofuji (Y1e) (0-0--1-0) v Daieisho (K1w) (0-0---0-1) (Match Video) Terunofuji is on the left.

2. Takakeisho (O1e) (0-0--1-0) v Wakatakakage (M1e) (0-0--0-1) (Match Video) Takakeisho is on the left

3. Shodai (O1w) (0-0--1-0) v Kiribayama (M1w) (0-0--0-1) (Match Video) Shodai is on the right.

4. Wakamotoharu (M15e) (0-0--1-0) v Ichiyamamoto (M14w) (0-0--1-0)

(Match Video) Wakamotoharu is on the left. This was Wakamotoharu's (28 year old older brother of Wakatakage--see above) debut match in Makuuchi (Top Division). 

5. Oho (M18e) (0-0--1-0) v Kaisei (M17w) (0-0--0-1) (Match Video)

Oho is on the left. This was 21 year old Oho's (grandson of 48th Yokozuna Taiho) debut match in Makuuchi.

Photos

Nikkan Sports Day 1 Photo Feature: There are photos today's Makuuchi matches, with selected Rikishi quotes. (Japanese)

Sumo Forum Day 1 Photo Feature

----

Day 2: 

Video: JSA

1. Terunofuji (Y1e) (1-0--2-0) v  Wakatakakage (M1e) (0-1---0-2) (Match Video) Terunofuji is on the left.

2. Takakeisho (O1e) (1-0--1-1) v Meisei (K1e) (0-1--1-1) (Match Video) Takakeisho is on the left

3.  Chiyoshoma (M5w) (0-1--0-2) v Abi (M6w) (1-0--2-0) (Match Video) Chiyoshoma is on the right.

4. (Juryo--2nd Division) 

Tokushoryu (J10e) (1-0--1-1) v Enho (J10w) (0-1--1-1) (Match Video)

Tokushoryu is on the left. Tokushoryu won the Makuuchi (Top Division) Yusho (Championship) in January 2020 from M17w with a 14-1 record and two Special Prizes. Enho was promoted to Top Division in May 2019 and climbed all the way to M4e (including one Special Prize). Since then they have both fallen out of the Top Division and this Basho (Tournament) could see one or both of them possibly falling out of the salaried ranks altogether with a particularly poor showing. 

Enho, at 168 cm (5 ft 6 inches), 97 kg (214 pounds) is 14 cm (6 inches) shorter and 94 kg (207 pounds) lighter than Tokushoryu.

Jonokuchi Match Day 1 (consisting of Day 1 and Day 2 matches). Nine matches are featured. Also some of the Yobidashi (ring announcer) introductions. The page also links to an excellent explanatory post on what goes on before a match. (Tachiai.org)

Photos

Nikkan Sports Day 2 Photo Feature: There are photos today's Makuuchi matches, with selected Rikishi quotes. Today there is an excellent set of photos of Ura's crash off the Dohyo (ring).

Sumo Forum Day 2 Photo Feature

----

Day 3: 

Video: JSA

1. Terunofuji (Y1e) (2-0--3-0) v  Kiribayama (M12) (0-2---0-3) (Match Video) Terunofuji is on the left.

2. Takakeisho (O1e) (1-1--1-2) v Ura (M2e) (0-2--1-2) (Match Video) Takakeisho is on the left. Note that both the match and the rematch are shown. 

3.  Shodai (O1w) (2-0--2-1) v Daieisho (K1w) (0-2--1-2) (Match Video) 

Shodai is on the right.

4. Meisei (K1e) (1-1--2-1) v Ichinojo (M2w) (1-1--1-2) (Match Video) 

Meisei is on the left.

5. Abi (M6w) (2-0--3-0) v Tobizaru (M8w) (2-0--2-1)  (Match Video)

Abi is on the right.

Photos

Nikkan Sports Day 3 Photo Feature

Sumo Forum Day 3 Photo Feature

----

Day 4: 

Video: JSA

1. Terunofuji (Y1e) (3-0--4-0) v Ura (M2e) (1-2--1-3) (Match Video) Terunofuji is on the left.

2. Shodai (O1w) (2-1--3-1) v Wakatakakage (M1e) (0-2--1-2) (Match Video) 

Shodai is on the right. While Wakatakakage was judged the winner by the Gyogi (referee), a mono-ii (Judges Conference) reversed the decision. Watch Wakatakage's feet closely as he pushes Shodai out. He stepped out before Shodai was pushed out. This is a non-technique charged to Wakatakage. It is called Isamiashi (see below for a NHK video explanation of the non-technique), literally, according to the NHK highlights, "jumping the gun."

3. Mitakeumi (S1e) (3-0--4-0) v Meisei (K1e) (2-1--2-2) (Match Video) Mitakeumi is on the left. Here the Gyoji adjudged Mitakeumi the winner but another mono--ii determined that both men went out simultaneously. An immediate rematch was ordered. The video shows both matches 

4. Abi (M6w) (3-0--4-0) v Chiyonokuni (M9e) (0-3--0-4) (Match Video)

Abi is on the right.

Photos:

Nikkan Sports Day 4 Photo Feature

Sumo Forum Day 4 Photo Feature

----

Day 5: 

Video: JSA

1. Terunofuji (Y1e) (4-0--5-0) v Ichinojo (M2e) (2-2--2-3) (Match Video) 

Terunofuji is on the left.

2. Shodai (O1w) (3-1--3-2) v Tamawashi (M3e) (3-1--4-1) (Match Video) 

Shodai is on the right.

3. Meisei (K1e) (2-2--3-2) v Ura (M2e) (1-3--1-4) (Match Video) 

Meisei  is on the left. 

4. Hokutofuji (M4w) (2-2--2-3) v Abi (M6w) (4-0--5-0) (Match Video) 

Abi is on the left.

5. Hoshoryu (M6e) (2-2--3-2) v Tobizaru (M8w) (2-2--2-3) (Match Video) 

Hoshoryu is on the left.

Jonokuchi Match Day 2  (consisting of Day 3, 4, and 5 matches). Six matches are featured.  (Tachiai.org)

Photos:

Photo of the day: Tochinoshin (M15w), an ex-Ozeki with almost 16 years experience, shows his power with an amazing tsuridashi (Frontal Lift out--the move is linked to a video below) of 134 kg (295 pound) Kotoeko (M17e). (Nikkan Sports)

Nikkan Sports Day 5 Photo Feature

Sumo Forum Day 5 Photo Feature

----

Day 6: 

Video: JSA

1. Terunofuji (Y1e) (5-0--5-1) v Tamawashi (M3e) (4-1--5-1) (Match Video) Terunofuji is on the left.

2. Shodai (O1w) (3-2--3-3) v Ichinojo (M2w) (2-3--3-3) (Match Video) 

Shodai is on the right. 

3. Mitakeumi (S1e) (5-0--6-0) v Endo (M3w) (2-3--2-4) (Match Video) 

Mitakeumi is on the left. 

4. Takanosho (S1w) (2-3--3-3) v Daieisho (K1w) (2-3--2-4) (Match Video)

Takanosho is on the right.

5. Kiribayama (M1w) (1-4--1-5) v Ura (M2e) (1-4--2-4) (Match Video)

Kiribayama is on the right. 

Jonokuchi Match Day 3 (consisting of Day 5 and Day 6 matches). Four matches (all with Yusho [Championship] implications)--note Rikishi records on the top left of the screen--are featured.  (Tachiai.org)

Photos:

Photo of the day: The instant Tamawashi stops Terunofuji's winning streak at 23. (Nikkan Sports)

Nikkan Sports Day 6 Photo Feature

Sumo Forum Day 6 Photo Feature

----

Day 7: 

Video: JSA

1. Terunofuji (Y1e) (5-1--6-1) v Endo (M3w) (2-4--2-5) (Match Video) Terunofuji is on the left.

2. Shodai (O1w) (3-3--3-4) v Okinoumi (M4e) (1-5--2-5) (Match Video) 

Shodai is on the right. 

3. Mitakeumi (S1e) (6-0--7-0) v Tamawashi (M3e) (5-1--5-2) (Match Video) 

Mitakeumi is on the left. 

4. Ura (M2e) (2-4--3-4) v Hakutofuji (M4w) (3-3--3-4) (Match Video)

Ura is on the left.

5. Onosho (M5e) (4-2--5-2) v Abi (M6w) (6-0--6-1) (Match Video)

Onosho is on the left. 

6. Kotonowaka (M14e) (4-2--5-2) v Oho (M18e) (4-2--4-3) (Links to Rikishi information [JSA] are available from the link) (Match Video)

Kotonowaka is on the left.

Photos:

Photo of the day: Ishiura (M12e--172 cm [5 feet 8 inches], 118 kg [260 pounds]) (4-3) executes a beautiful Susoharai (Rear Foot Sweep--see below for link to the technique) , to beat Akua (M10w--184 cm [6 feet 0 inches], 167 kg [368 pounds]) (1-6). This bout marks the first use of this Kimarite (winning technique) in any of the 6 Division Basho so far. (Nikkan Sports)

Nikkan Sports Day 7 Photo Feature

Sumo Forum Day 7 Photo Feature

----

Day 8: 

Video: JSA

1. Terunofuji (Y1e) (6-1--7-1) v Okinoumi (M4e) (2-5--2-6) (Match Video) 

Terunofuji is on the left.

2. Shodai (O1w) (3-4--4-4) v Endo (M3w) (2-5--2-6) (Match Video) 

Shodai is on the right. 

3. Mitakeumi (S1e) (7-0--8-0) v Daieisho (K1w) (3-4--3-5) (Match Video) 

Mitakeumi is on the left. 

4. Takanosho (S1w) (4-3--4-4) v Ura (M2e) (3-4--4-4)  (Match Video)

Takanosho is on the right.

5. Akua (M10w) (1-6--1-7) v Chiyomaru (M13e) (4-3--5-3) (Match Video)

Akua is on the right.

Jonokuchi Match Day 4   (consisting of Day 7 and Day 8 matches). Two matches with Yusho (Championship) implications are featured. (Tachiai.org)

Photos:

Photo of the day: Tamawashi, about to slam into the tawara after having beaten Hokutofuji. (Nikkan Sports)

Tamawashi goes down (a different angle) (Jiji.com)

Note: that is 166 kg (366 pounds) of already defeated Hokutofuji on the other end of that thrust. But it didn't keep didn't keep Tamawashi from participating in his 1,400th consecutive bout on Day 9.

Nikkan Sports Day 8 Photo Feature

Sumo Forum Day 8 Photo Feature

----

Day 9: 

Video: JSA

1. Terunofuji (Y1e) (7-1--8-1) v Hakutofuji (M4w) (3-5--3-6) (Match Video) 

Terunofuji is on the left.

2. Shodai (O1w) (4-4--4-5) v Meisei (K1e) (3-5--4-5) (Match Video) 

Shodai is on the right. 

3. Mitakeumi (S1e) (7-0--8-0) v Okinoumi (M4e) (2-6--2-7) (Match Video) 

Mitakeumi is on the left. 

4. Daieisho (K1w) (3-5--3-6) v Kiribayama (M1w) (2-6--3-6) (Match Video)

Daieisho is on the right.

5. Wakakaktage (M1e) (3-5--4-5) v Tamawashi (6-2--6-3) (Links to Rikishi information [JSA] are available from the link) (Match Video)

Wakatakage is on the left.

6. Terutsuyoshi (M11w) (3-5--3-6) v Wakamotoharu (M15e) (4-4--5-4) (Match Video)

Terutsuyoshi is on the right

Photos:

Photo of the day: Ishiura (M12e--172 cm [5 feet 8 inches, 118 kg [260 pounds) (5-4) executes a beautiful Shitatehineri (Twisting Under Arm Throw) , to beat Tsurugisho (M16w--184 cm [6 feet 0 inches], 200 kg, [440 pounds]) 3-6 . On Day 7 Ishiura used a Susoharai (Rear Foot Sweep--see below for link to the technique), to beat Akua (M10w--184 cm [6 feet 0 inches], 167 kg [368 pounds]).  The Shitatehineri was only the second one executed in any of the 6 Division Basho so far. This Susoharai was and still is the first use of this Kimarite (winning technique) in any of the 6 Divisions Basho so far.  Which shows that a Rikishi (wrestler) with a repertoire can not only pull of some of the most exciting moves in the sport, but also use that repertoire to beat Rikishi who have large height and tremendous weight advantages over him. (Nikkan Sports).

Match video (Chris Sumo Youtube)

Nikkan Sports Day 9 Photo Feature

Sumo Forum Day 9 Photo Feature

----

Day 10: 

Video: JSA

1. Terunofuji (Y1e) (8-1--9-1) v Onosho (M5e) (6-3--6-4)  (Match Video) 

Terunofuji is on the left.

2. Mitakeumi (S1e) (9-0--9-1) v Hokutofuji (M4w) (3-6--4-6)  (Match Video) 

Mitakeumi is on the left. 

3. Daieisho (K1w) (3-6--3-7) v Ura (M2e) (4-5--5-5) (Match Video)

Daieisho is on the right.

4. Ishiura (M12e) (5-4--64) v Kotonowaka (M14e) (7-2--7-3) (Match Video)

Ishiura is on the left. 

5. Chiyaorashi (J13w) (2-7--?) v Atamifuji (Ms1w--Makushita Substitute) (2-3--?). (Match Video)

 (Chyoaorashi is on the right). You can tell he is a salaried Rikishi by observing his silk mawashi (belt), a beautiful dark blue, with ritual sagari (silk "sticks" that represent the aprons-- see the beginning of any NHK highlights to see what these aprons actually look like--that Rikishi traditionally wore centuries ago while fighting). As for Atamifuji, he is in the drab olive green cotton mawashi with drab, hardly visible sagari, that all lower division Rikishi wear.

This was a Juryo (2nd Division--salaried) match. Atamifuji, age 19, began his career in January 2021. He is in the same Stable as Yokozuna Terunofuji. He has rocketed up the Banzuke (rankings) from Jonokuchi (6th Division--non-salaried) to Makushita 1w (highest Division 3 ranking--non-salaried). He has passed somewhere around 300 Rikishi to get there this fast. Going into this Basho he had a career record of 36-6, with 2 lower division Yusho (Championships). A winning score (4-3 or better) from this rank will guarantee him a promotion to Juryo, a remarkable achievement for one so young and with so little experience. He easily won his first two matches in this Basho and seemed to be cruising to another Yusho and promotion. But then the wheels came off in a hurry and he lost his next 3 bouts. He had to win this match for a chance at promotion and a salary. 

Chiyoarashi is a 30 year old 14 and 1/2 year Sumo veteran who reached Juryo in September 2011, was injured in his 2nd Juryo Basho, was demoted, and then again in May 2013, was injured again in his 2nd Juryo Basho, missed 3 Basho, and was demoted back to the lower ranks again. He fought in the non-salaried ranks from March 2014, progressing from Sandamne (Division 4) 87e to Ms2e (May 2015). At that time he was injured again, missed 3 more Basho and was demoted to Jonidan (Division 5) 32w in January 2016. He fought his way all the way back and finally was promoted to Juryo 13w for this Basho. At that rank, he must achieve Kachi-koshi (a winning record--8-7 or better) or he will be demoted back to Makushita. Going into this match, he was 2-7, and so needed to win his last 6 consecutive matches. So for Chiyoarashi, this was also a crucial match. If he lost, he and his opponent would switch places, with the loser losing his salary after working 8 1/2 years since his last salaried bout , while the winner would have a chance to get a salary after one year in Sumo.

Matches like these happen all the time in Sumo in the lower divisions and carry just as much drama, exhilaration, and heartbreak, as any crucial Top Division match. Which is probably why JSA decided to film this one.  

Jonokuchi Match Days 5 and 6 (consisting of Day 9 and Day 10 matches). 

Match Day 5 (three matches between contenders--see scoreboard at top left of the video)

Match Day 6 (includes three matches, including matches between contenders--see scoreboard at top left of the video) (Tachiai.org)

Photos:

Photo of the day: Mitakeumi's (S1e) first defeat after 9 consecutive wins. (Nikkan Sports)

Nikkan Sports Day 10 Photo Feature

Sumo Forum Day 10 Photo Feature

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Day 11: 

Video: JSA

1. Terunofuji (Y1e) (9-1--10-1) v Chiyoshoma (M5w) (4-6--4-7) (Match Video) 

Terunofuji is on the left.

2. Shodai (O1w) (4-6--4-7) v Mitakeumi (S1e) (9-1--10-1) (Match Video) 

Shodai is on the right. 

3. Wakatakakage (M1e) (4-6---5-6) Ura (M2e) (4-6--5-6) (Match Video)

Wakatakakage is on the left

4. Takarafuji (M7w) (8-2--8-3) v Kotonowaka (M14e) (7-3--8-3) (Links to Rikishi information [JSA] are available from the link) (Match Video)

Takarafuji is on the right.

5. Kotoyusho (J13e) (6-4--6-5) v Shimazuumi (Ms2w) (3-2--4-2) (Match Video)

Kotoyosho is on the left.

This was a Juryo (2nd Division) match which included a high ranking Makushita (3rd Division) participant. The significance is that Shimazuumi, with his now guaranteed Kachi-koshi (4 wins or more of the 7 he fights), has, from this rank, guaranteed himself a promotion to Juryo and the salary that goes with it, after toiling in the lower divisions for 10 years, from the time he began his career, at age 15. Kotoyusho needs 2 wins in his last 4 matches to avoid losing his salary.

Photos:

Photo of the day: Terutsuyoshi (M11w) begins his Tachiai (initial charge) with a "playing with the cat" move (clapping his hands together in order to disorient his opponent. The time it bought him allowed him to get inside and, inside of 5 seconds, demolish Yutakayama (M13w) with a Makiotoshi (Twist Down).  It was one of only 2 Makiotoshi executed in all 6 Division Basho so far. Here is how it ended. (Nikkan Sports)

After playing "with the cat" the ending twist (Chris Sumo Youtube).

Nikkan Sports Day 11 Photo Feature

Sumo Forum Day 11 Photo Feature

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Day 12: 

Video: JSA

1. Terunofuji (Y1e) (10-1--10-2) v Meisei (K1e) (4-7--5-7) (Match Video) 

Terunofuji is on the left.

2. Mitakeumi (S1e) (10-1--10-2) v Onosho (M5e) (7-4--8-4) (Match Video) 

Mitakeumi is on the left. 

3. Takanosho (S1w) (6-5--6-6) v Abi (M6w) (9-2--10-2) (Match Video)

Abi is on the left. 

4. Kiribayama (M1w) (5-6--5-7) v Endo (M3w) (4-7--5-7) (Match Video)

Kiribayama is on the right.

Photos:

Photo of the day: Meisei employing a nodawa (throat) attack to keep Terunofuji at bay and off his mawashi (belt). The move also put the Yokozuna off balance and set up the the win via Katasukashi (Under Shoulder Swing Down) that sent the Yokozuna out of the dohyo (ring) to his 2nd loss. (Nikkan Sports)

Nikkan Sports Day 12 Photo Feature

Sumo Forum Day 12 Photo Feature

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Day 13: 

Video: JSA

1. Terunofuji (Y1e) (10-2--11-2) v Takanosho (S1w) (6-6--6-7)  (Match Video) 

Terunofuji is on the left.

2. Mitakeumi (S1e) (10-2--11-2) v Abi (M6w) (10-2--10-3) (Match Video) 

Mitakeumi is on the left. 

3. Daiamami (J3e) (7-5--7-6) v Kitanowaka (J12w) (7-5--8-5) (Match Video)

Daiamami is on the left. This Juryo (2nd Division--salaried) match, while having no impact on the Yusho (Championship) race, did have implications for the March Banzuke (Rankings). Diamami, at his Rank, and with the situation in the lower Maegashira ranks in Makuuchi (Top Division), might have earned a promotion back to Makuuchi had he won today. He was demoted to Juryo after the July 2021 Basho. So he had great motivation to win, earn his Kachi-koshi (8 or more wins), and let the chips fall where they may. But he was derailed by 21 year old Kitanowaka, who earned his Kachi-koshi. However, even if he wins out (10-5), he will not be promoted to Top Division because his rank in Juryo (12 out of 14) is too low. Even if he had gone 15-0 and won the Yusho, he still would not have been promoted to Top Division. If he does win out, it may promote him to the top half of the Juryo Division, but he is probably at least two excellent Basho away from Makuuchi. Daimami lost his last 3 matches.  At 7-8 he stays in Juryo. 

SPECIAL SECTION ON LOWER DIVISION CHAMPIONSHIPS 

3 Lower Division Championships and and 1 Playoff were made available today. 

MAKUSHITA--DIVISION 3 YUSHO: NISHIKAWA (M35e) (7-0)

Nishikawa defeated Ryuden (Ms5e) (6-1) by Hikiotoshi (Hand Pull Down).

Direct link to full match video (Chris Sumo Youtube)

Full match video from another angle (OneLoveLulit Twitter)

Ryuden has a top knot.

Ryuden earned Juryo (2nd Division--salaried)  promotion even though he lost this Yusho match. His rank was high enough (barely) to get the promotion on his record alone. He is a long time ex-Makuuchi (Top Division) Rikishi and one time Komusubi (one of the Top Ranks) who is making his way back up after Covid restriction violations caused a 6 month suspension and demotion to M47w). This was Ryuden's only loss in two Makushita Basho.

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SANDANME--DIVISION 4 YUSHO: THERE WILL BE A PLAYOFF BETWEEN Mukainakano (Sd81w) (7-0) and Osani (Sd19e).

Mukaiakano defeated Miyagi (Sd59e) (5-2) by Oshidashi (Frontal Push Out) 

Osani defeated Chiyodaigo (Sd73w) by Yorikiri (Frontal Force Out)

Direct link to both full match videos (they run consecutively)

JONIDAN--DIVISION 5 YUSHO: ASAHANSHIN (Jd27w)

Asahanshin defeated Kawamura (Jd69w) (6-1) by Okuritaoshi (Rear Push Down)

Direct link to full match video (Chris Sumo Youtube)

JONOKUCHI--DIVISION 6 YUSHO: NAKASHIMA (Jk16w) (7-0)

Nakashima defeated Nishikimaru (Jk4w) (5-2) by Oshidashi (Frontal Push Out)

Full match video (Tachiai.org) 

Photos:

Photo of the day: Terunofuji breaks Takanosho's attempted Nodawa (throat) attack that Meisei used so effectively to defeat the Yokozuna yesterday. Shortly after this, Terunofuji grasped Takanosho's mawashi (belt) with his left hand. Lights out in 3.3 seconds. (Nikkan Sports) 

 

Nikkan Sports Day 13 Photo Feature

Sumo Forum Day 13 Photo Feature

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Day 14: 

Video: JSA

1. Terunofuji (Y1e) (11-2-11-3) v Abi (M6w) (10-3--11-3) (Match Video) 

Terunofuji is on the left.

2. Mitakeumi (S1e) (11-2--12-2) v Takarafuji (M7w) (9-4--9-5) (Match Video) 

Mitakeumi is on the left. 

3.  Takanosho (S1w) (6-7--6-8) v Kotonowaka (M14e) (10-3--11-3) (Links to Rikishi information [JSA] are available from the link) (Match Video)

Takanosho is on the right

4. Kotoyusho (J13e) (6-7--?) v Atamifuji (Ms1w) (3-3--?) (Match Video)

Kotoyusho is on is on the left. This Juryo (2nd Division--salaried) match, between a low ranking Juryo man and high ranking Makushita (Division 3--non-salaried) substitute, while having no bearing on the outcome of either Division Yusho, was quite significant in the example it shows of some of the interesting sub-plots of a Tournament. Kotoyusho is a 27 year old veteran of  245 matches in 35 Basho. The first 34 were fought in the lower (non-salaried) Divisions. In November 2021, he was 4-3 as a Ms1w. That was his 7th consecutive Kachi-koshi (winning record), and he moved up the Banzuke (Rankings) from Ms44e to Ms1w. He was 30-19 during that time. He was then promoted to J13e for this Basho. The lowest Juryo rank is J14, so a losing record would most likely demote him back to Makushita and he would lose his salary. He came into this match at 6-7 with the knowledge that he needed two wins to keep his salary. This match was the first.

Atamifuji, on the other hand, is a 19 year old up and comer, who has been rocketing up the Banzuke, with a 36-6 record coming into this Basho, including  two Yusho (Championships) in the lower Divisions. He won his first two matches in this Basho and was looking at something special, but then stumbled and lost three in a row. With his back to the wall, needing to win his last two matches for Juryo promotion and salary, he won his 6th match to improve to 3-3. 

So this match was crucial to each Rikishi (wrestler). There was a real possibility that the two could switch places in the Banzuke if Atamifuji won. If Kotoyusho won, he would still have a chance to stay in Juryo, while Atamifuji would drop down in the Makushita ranks, marking his first drop in rank in his career, along with his first Make-Koshi (losing record).

In the Makushita-Juryo divide, these kinds of matches are as crucial as they come.

Photos:

Photo of the day:  Abi uses the Nodawa (throat) attack to keep Terunofuji away from his belt and off balance. This was the prelude to Abi's victory. He beat Teru using the same tactic that Meisei also used to defeat the Yokozuna.  The tactic was successfully pioneered (Chris Sumo Youtube) in this Basho by Tamawashi, and broke the Yokuzuna's 23 match winning streak. (Nikkan Sports)  

Nikkan Sports Day 14 Photo Feature

Sumo Forum Day 14 Photo Feature

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Day 15: 

Video: JSA

1. Terunofuji (Y1e) (11-3--11-4) v Mitakeumi (S1e) (12-2--13-2)  (Match Video) 

Terunofuji is on the left.

2. Abi (M6w) (11-3--12-3) v Kotonowaka (M14e) (11-3--11-4) (Match Video) 

Abi is on the right. 

3. Ura (M2e) 7-7 v Chiyomaru (M13e) 7-7 (Match Video)

Ura is on the left.

SPECIAL SECTION:  Juryo (2nd Division--salaried) and Sandanme (4th Division--non-salaried) Yusho (Campionship) Playoffs.

In these two Divisions, the Basho ended in a tie for Yusho. They were decided by Playoffs on Day 15.

JURYO-DIVISION 2 YUSHO: KOTOSHOHO (J2w)

Kotoshoho (11-4) defeated Yago (11-4) by Yorikiri (Frontal Force Out)

Direct link to full match video (Japan Sumo Association, no commentary)

Kotoshoho is on the left.

Another view: (Chris Sumo Youtube)

SANDANME-DIVISION 4 YUSHO: MUKAINAKANO (Sd81w)

Mukainakano (7-0) defeated Osani (Sd19e)  (7-0) by Yorikiri (Frontal Force Out)

Direct link to full match video (Chris Sumo Youtube)

Photos:

Photo of the day:  Mitakeumi (S1e) (13-2), soon to be Ozeki, receiving the Emporer's Cup as the 2022 Hatsu (New Year) Basho Makuuchi (Top Division) Champion. The presenter is Japan Sumo Association President Hakkaku (who was also the 61st Yokozuna--Hokutoumi) (Nikkan Sports)

Nikkan Sports Day 15 Photo Feature

Sumo Forum Day 15 Photo Feature 

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January 2022 (Hatsu) Basho (Tournament)

Introduction and Previews (including 2 Fred Pinkerton height x weight scatter plots)--links to all player information (ranking, prefecture or country of origin, date of birth, stable height, weight)

Day 1; Day 2; Day 3; Day 4; Day 5

Day 6; Day 7; Day 8; Day 9; Day 10

Day 11; Day 12; Day 13; Day 14; Day 15 

Summary; Cumulative Statistics; Selected Comparisons with November 2021 Basho and Index to all Videos and Photos (Scroll to the bottom of the page)

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