CT3*

Well it least gave me an opportunity to talk about and explain Sumo!

Apparently this video has gone a bit viral. In the last week or so, I've had several people ask me if I'd seen it. And these people are NOT sumo fans.

I bought one of the Hakuho towels at the Kokugikan in January. Also picked up a rubber Hakuho mask. LOL! Picked up so much sumo merchandise (tegata, playing cards, magazines, magnets) that I had to buy an additional duffel bag to haul it back home.

I've been watching him in Juryo and have been impressed with his poise. Interested in his Makuuchi debut.

I often use the between basho time to really watch the matches in Juryo and below.

No argument here, brother. I use that same line all the time!

Can't say that I blame you. It's become increasingly hard to take even a little seriously.

Jejima That's exactly how one of the ST guys called it the day before senshuraku. And I'm sure they're not gonna let anyone forget..

LOL!!

Hakuho likely felt disrespected by Kisenosato's tachi-ai antics. He was visibly annoyed. So punishment was delivered.

Great bout between Shohozan and Nishikigi! Two matta and then a loooong and interesting contest between the two. I also enjoyed the Kyokutaisei vs Toyohibiki clash. Kyo's low, attacking style reminds me of Amuuru at times.

The thing I dislike most about henkas? All of the wailing and gnashing of teeth that follows. Would I prefer to see a straight up scrap over a henka? Of course. But I just don't get all the crying about it. I remember Ichinojo pulled a henka on Kakuryu a few basho back. It sucked, but it worked. And I doubt he'll be able to get away with it again. Remember when Terunofuji henka'd Kotoshogiku awhile back? Well the Geekster paid him back last basho. And although he's gotten better, Kisenosato has a bit of a history of dicking around at the tachi ai and sometimes he gets punished for it. It's all part of the game.

Kisenosato's annoyance at Kakuryu's first henka attempt made me chuckle. If looks could kill! But I literally laughed out loud when Kakuryu did it again. I bet NOBODY saw that coming, least of all Kisenosato. In that context, it actually made sense. Nice to see Kise recover somewhat, but by then it was too late.

I think this whole "shame" aspect of using an occasional henka is often overstated. He's not the first Yokozuna to do it..

Perhaps...but I don't see Osu falling for it.

Looked to me like Goeido was trying to pull off his signature kubinage. But Kakuryu was in the better position and denied it.

I didn't say Terunofuji has no technique. However I do think that his size/strength is what often bails him out in instances where his technique is lacking or ineffective. But I think his technique will continue to improve. He's a beast, but still a work in progress, imo.

Yep

I'm impressed with Terunofuji and like the excitement that he brings. But my enthusiasm is a bit tempered because I think some of his success is based on his size/strength moreso than technique; and this current Ozeki crew may be making him look a bit better than he is (at this point). But he's young and has time to improve his technique and will undoubtedly gain more experience. If he remains injury free, he will likely remain a force to be reckoned with for some time.

Gambare, Kinta!

LMAO!!!!!!! (Whatever above, it is funny...)

I too watched Hakuho's bouts multiple times and in slow motion. And I honestly can't see what Yoshikaze did to make Hakuho fall. I really can't. Maybe it was a balance thing. But I certainly didn't see Yoshikaze hand Hakuho his ass. I'm just glad this isn't a basho that I'm attending in person. It'd be pretty disappointing to travel all the way to Japan and have 2 of the 3 Yokozuna sitting out.

And then there are those of us who travel to Japan FOR sumo!

Good first day! Hakuho looked annoyed at the matta and then perhaps lost his focus. Good start for Okinoumi.

Although it's disappointing that we won't get to see him in action, it's probably for the best. Kakuryu sat out 2 consecutive basho and came back looking healthy and strong. I'm hopeful that Harumafuji does the same.