*This content was translated by AI.
Hoshoryu (27), who reached the highest rank of yokozuna in Japanese sumo but has failed to stand atop the podium even once in nine consecutive tournaments, now faces the prospect of missing the autumn tournament (Aki Basho) due to complications from knee surgery. As injuries and poor form have dragged on, local media are even mentioning wrestlers who retired in disgrace in the past.
Japanese outlet 'Post Seven' reported on the 10th that "it is highly likely that yokozuna Hoshoryu will withdraw from the upcoming Grand Sumo Autumn Tournament on the 13th," adding that "voices are rising questioning whether he is following in the footsteps of Kitao, who was expelled without ever winning a title after promotion."
Hoshoryu suffered six losses at the July Nagoya tournament and then withdrew starting from the 14th day, immediately undergoing surgery on his right knee's medial collateral ligament. According to local reports, during a press conference held before the tournament, Hoshoryu stated, "I will see if I can compete until the end. My desire to participate is as strong as ever." However, he remains at an early training stage in his current stable, making participation practically difficult.
His coach, Tatsunami Oyakata, admitted the dire situation by saying, "I told Hoshoryu that when he competes next, he must win unconditionally for everyone to accept it."
The problem lies in Hoshoryu's relatively slender physique on a sand court filled with giants. Compared to another yokozuna, Onosato, who stands 192cm tall and weighs 188kg, Hoshoryu is only 188cm tall and weighs around 148kg. His frame does not even reach the first division average weight of 157.8kg, leading to constant injuries in his elbows, knees, and hamstrings as he engages in strength contests with larger opponents.
Hoshoryu has suffered no fewer than 17 defeats across nine tournaments since being promoted to yokozuna, failing to win a single title. In response, some within the sumo world are citing Kitao, who was also from Hoshoryu's stable. Kitao was promoted to yokozuna at age 22 in 1986 without ever winning a tournament and was expelled at age 24 after falling out with his mentor, having never secured a championship.
Nine consecutive tournaments without a title since promotion to yokozuna marks the second-longest humiliating record in history, following Wakanohana III, who retired after nine consecutive tournaments without a title at the end of the Heisei era (1989). To avoid meeting the same fate as Wakanohana, who was forced into early retirement due to his slender build and injuries, Hoshoryu's comeback is urgently needed.
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*This content was translated by AI.
