TOKYO (AP) The first Japanese-born wrestler to reach sumo’s highest rank in almost two decades has pulled out of the Summer Grand Sumo Tournament to recover from upper body injuries.
Yokozuna Kisenosato withdrew from the 15-day tournament at Tokyo’s Ryogoku Kokugikan on Wednesday after posting a 6-4 record with a loss to Kotoshogiku on Tuesday.
”After seeing yesterday’s results we decided he should withdraw as he is in no condition to produce decent sumo,” his stablemaster Tagonoura said.
The 30-year-old Kisenosato electrified Japan’s ancient sport by winning his first two tournaments since being promoted to the top-ranked yokozuna in January.