Ozeki Kiryū (30, from Otowayama) secured his second consecutive victory at the summer sumo tournament on Monday with a decisive thrust-down move. At the initial charge, he stepped in sharply, read his opponent Yoshinofuji’s movements, and executed a left-handed pull. In the closing moments, Kiryū lowered his head, timed his opponent’s forward rush perfectly, and sent him to the clay with a thrust-down. Showing composure against Yoshinofuji’s footwork, Kiryū reflected on the bout, saying, “I watched my opponent and let the flow of my body dictate the sumo.” He credited pre-tournament training for his sharp movements, adding with a grin, “I don’t like taking such a chaotic bout,” though he appeared relaxed and in control.
Earlier in the day, it was announced that Yokozuna Hōshōryū would sit out the rest of the tournament, joining fellow Yokozuna Ōnosato and Ōzeki Anjō Nishiki on the sidelines. With several top-ranked wrestlers absent, Kiryū is now set to face Ōzeki Kotozakura in the final match of the day. Still, Kiryū stressed his natural approach: “I don’t really think about that. When I step onto the dohyō, I just focus on taking my own sumo.” He added firmly, “It’s a match. I have no choice but to go for the win,” making clear his determination to pour all his energy into the bout at hand rather than dwelling on responsibility.
【Video】Fierce match ends with Kiryū’s victory as he outmaneuvers Yoshinofuji for a thrust-out
【Full results of the Summer Sumo Tournament】>>
