Asa in hot water again?

[ilovesumo]

The point is if Kyokai takes a more embracing stance towards the media it can only increase the popularity. Like the saying gos all publicity is good publicity. People need to know backgrounds and speial thing about rikishi that they can relate to or admire. A photo of Hakuho playing soccer or baseball would do wonders for his PR. It will make the youth relate more to him as another young men who through hard work and determination is now at the top of his sport.

Perhaps this was all the Kyokai engineering to gain even more interest for the Jungyo. Many will now want to see the soccer ball kicking Yokozuna. This is just my opinion and many will disagree but such is the nature of humans.

I do agree what you say about the young people. But what I have seen, people at the Kokugikan- most of them were between 2 and 3-times my age- and those don't want to see the Yokozuna playing soccer (for the thing itself-soccer as a game,a foreign one,not a national diamond like Sumo etcetc) + that the whole story looks like that he doesn't bow his head like he should.

To me it feels like misunderstandings on both sides. I am sure he wanted to do a good thing, someting "nations hand in hand for friendship" but hurted feelings with something he did not expect/think about.

He want's to be the strong man all the time- sure he don't want to seem (don't wanna be seen) injured-isn't the body of a Yokozuna like a stone?- wrong again...

From what I recived in Japan- big shout after a mistake to make you think and learn about how wrong you've done and what your own position in the family (work place) is, but the other day the guy who shouted like hell yesterday was as friendly as before and had his arm around your shoulder saying "ganbarimashou" -let's do our best (together).

Let's hope this story will end like that.

Roho should have been kicked out for what he had done, not Asa for something like this.

[Ruziklao]

Roho should have been kicked out for what he had done, not Asa for something like this.

That last sentence made me think of ... what were the worst things makuuchi riskishi or even sanyaku rikishi or even champions have ever done?

While I do not want to turn this topic into tabloid, I think this might help some of us to put this Asashoruy's mistake into wider picture. As a complete foreigner I am fascinated by sumo world and its etiquette. I do remember only a few such bad things done that were frowned upon and in the moment I can only write a very few:

Roho vs. Chiyotaikai

Asashoryu taking kensho with left hand

Asashoryu somewhere in Mongolia (Takasago oyakata had no idea where and when he returns)

Mage pulling in the bout

...

What is worse and why?

[BuBa]

It's not a "bashing all of a sudden". Asashouryuu actually did something (or didn't do, depends on your point of view..) so it's news now. And when I said decline in Sumo interest, it was not only because of his behavior, but simply because of his total dominance. Of course it's not his fault that he's so dominant. but it's just a fact. As Nishi pointed out, a die hard sumo fan may have lost some interest, but kids and "light" sumo fans would be thrilled just to see him live, and that is the whole point.

As for the "Vanila yokozuna who married a Japanese ( and consequently sold out all Mongolians??)", that is not a nice thing to say and totally irrelevant to this discussion.

"Man has kicked a ball for a good cause"? Like it or not, Asa is king of Japan's national sport. His obligation to Japan and Sumo are way ahead of any obligation to his home country and any local "cause", for the moment at least. If you don't understand that and can't see beyond your patriotic cloud, that is wrong.

I don't want to see Asa punished or whatever. He was and is my favorite rikishi. Still, sometimes I don't understand (does he?) his priorities..

How die hard one fan is if one loses interest in the sport because one athlete is so dominant? (Ooh I don't like tennis anymore because Federer is sooo dominant.) Or may be there are other reasons, like oh-uh .... xenophobia? As for married to Japanese woman, it is not my position to have any opinion as it is Hakuho personal matter. And from what I have read it seems like the girl is a really nice person. The point is that the japanese themselves ( Kyokai, media, public etc) make a big deal out of who one is married to, hence my reference to hakuho's japanese wife. And what patriotic cloud are you talking about? As I recall both Yokozunas are still Mongolians, although one of them is vanilla, aren't they?

[Asashosakari]

While I do not want to turn this topic into tabloid, I think this might help some of us to put this Asashoruy's mistake into wider picture. As a complete foreigner I am fascinated by sumo world and its etiquette. I do remember only a few such bad things done that were frowned upon and in the moment I can only write a very few:

Roho vs. Chiyotaikai

Asashoryu taking kensho with left hand

Asashoryu somewhere in Mongolia (Takasago oyakata had no idea where and when he returns)

Mage pulling in the bout

...

What is worse and why?

Just as a quick note, I don't think ilovesumo was thinking about the Roho/Taikai thing, but rather Roho hitting the photographer afterwards. Anyway, Roho/Taikai or mage pulling or various other on-dohyo stuff is "only" a matter of lacking hinkaku...hitting non-Kyokai people/having car crashes/skipping obligations towards fans is arguably worse in the Kyokai's eyes, I suspect, because it affects the public perception of sumo to a much greater degree, rather than mostly the perception of the rikishi involved. And of course it's not good for business.

That said, I don't think this newest caper by Asashoryu is all that bad in itself (Roho certainly rated much higher), but the fact that his non-appearance at the jungyo cheats fans directly makes it worse. Maybe he really was sort-of pressured into taking part in that soccer game for publicity reasons, but that's exactly why injured yokozuna really aren't supposed to be out in public in the first place. (Or at least that was still the standard operating procedure not so long ago.)

[Washuyama]

It might surprise some here but most Japanese people don't have a clue who half the rikishi in makuuchi are.

I can add credence to this statement. I've only been back in Japan for a couple months and the Japanese I work with know I am a big sumo fan. Anyway, one of me Japanese coworkers starting up a conversation asking If I'd heard that Yokozuna Asashoryu is in some trouble. After we talked for a few minutes he also asked if I'd heard about "some old guy" getting promoted to Ozeki...

I didn't pick up on it until I read Nishinoshima's post, but his knowledge of sumo wrestlers ends with the Yokozuna.

Kinda like me before I started playing golf.... The only pro golfer I knew was Tiger Woods.

[Kintamayama]

And what patriotic cloud are you talking about? As I recall both Yokozunas are still Mongolians, although one of them is vanilla, aren't they?

You are right. It is useless to try to explain something to you without you getting all tied up in the "xenophobia" issue. And yes, die hard fans sometimes lose interest in their sport when it becomes boring to them. Like Sumo fans. There is a sharp decline in them lately. But you are right. The Yokozuna are both Mongolians. I guess I forgot.

I will move on to a better seat.

[Ikh Mongol Dagvadorj]

What is real reason of this Asa bashing?

It is true that he has diagnosis by Japanese doctors. Some injury is ok playing soccer with kids, isn't it.

I think some reason of Asa bashing is dissappointed media which has lost in previous anti-Asashoryu scandal and some unhappy "xenophobic" individuals who needed any reason to vent their suppressed attitude against Asashoryu. And now Jungyo has one more reason to blame someone for its poor job of attracting Japanese public to sumo.With yokozuna or without him, frankly say majority of Japanese public don't interest sumo at all.

Actually thanks to Asashoryus' genuine manner, many foreign audience is attracted to Sumo. Everyone is waiting more success from Asashoryu, although Japanese managed to put another Mongolian Yokozuna against him to slow down Asa. Why against him? Because he just can not be Japanese. Asashoryu do not learn japanese formality, although he try very hard, he has zero japanese manner. Everything about him ( pride, stupidity, naivity, emotional outburst) is Mongolian.

And Mongolians are proud of him. His demeanour fits to Champion

As a Mongolian he is also obligated to serve Mongolian public too. He can promote Japanese Soccer Star to Mongolian kids to encourage them in soccer, can't he. At the same time he is doing better job promoting Japanese Sumo to Mongolian public :). There are thousands of mongolian boys who are eager and capable of becoming next Asashoryu.

This kid of 1980, Dolgorsurengiing Dagvadorj, Dai Yokozuna Asashoryu Akinori has deep respect to Sumo and japanese people according to his interviews in mongolian media. He is not imaginable without his demeanour which makes Sumo more interesting.

Off topic. picture

Edited July 28, 2007 by Ikh Mongol Dagvadorj

[Takemi]

Nice pic, thank you!

[Jakusotsu]

...a yokozuna is supposed to be the living embodiment of sumo.

Him, and Hokutoriki of course! (Chucking salt...)

[madorosumaru]

Nikkansports.com reported that Takasago Oyakata, the yokozuna's shisho, went to Kitanoumi Beya on Saturday night to explain Asashoryu's actions. Unfortunately, the rijicho was not in, so an appointment was made for Sunday.

As we all know by now, the jungyo department has already issued a statement that Ryu's presence is neither needed nor wanted for the upcoming tour. However, Takasago said, "Asashoryu will be returning on the 30th. When he does, we would like to go visit the rijicho and the jungyo department and "bow our heads" [in apology]. As for the jungyo, it would depend on his condition, but as long as he can move, I would want him to participate."

[Takemi]

Noticed the none chonmage Asa, what to the "rules" say about that?

I pressume he have his hair in a ponytail in this pic.

[Kotonosato]

Noticed the none chonmage Asa, what to the "rules" say about that?

I pressume he have his hair in a ponytail in this pic.

No. In the video, it was clear that he had a proper mage. It just sipped down with all the running around.

[Takemi]

Noticed the none chonmage Asa, what to the "rules" say about that?

I pressume he have his hair in a ponytail in this pic.

No. In the video, it was clear that he had a proper mage. It just sipped down with all the running around.

Ok, thanks.

I asked before, but I will ask again. Anyone got any video footage of this "outrageous" game of soccer?

[ilovesumo]

Is there anything (I guess not) like a "weiss book" (the book the MITI writes) with rules for Yokozuna/Rikishi?

I know, there are some rules, the Rikishi have to study like a poem. "I will always respect and speak in keigo (respect language) to Sekitori..." and so on, but those storys Madoro tells to open our eyes are probably also not known by the Yokozuna himself. He should. Everybody should, but such things are hidden under the carpet after a while I guess.

We see, such situations had been there before, so it's not against Asa nor the foreigner he is. (Important to know.)

One more step closer to understanding...

[madorosumaru]

On Sunday, Takasago Oyakata met with Kitanoumi Rijicho to report in detail the events of the past week.

After the meeting, he told the press, "Since [Asashoryu] turned in the doctor's report [to excuse himself from jungyo], the proper course of action would have been to have treatment [for the injuries]. I can fully understand how his recent behavior could be miscontrued." As for the statement from the jungyo department that the yokozuna's participation is not required, he said, "I have not heard anything directly [from them], so there is not much I can say."

Kitanoumi Rijicho was terse: "I have absolutely no comment whatsoever."

As reported earlier, Ryu will be returning to Japan on Monday. After Takasago Oyakata hears his story, the two will meet with Kitanoumi Rijicho on the 31st to explain the yokozuna's actions.

[Edited to add new information]

According to sanspo.com, this recent indiscretion by the yokozuna may be the "last straw" for even Takasago Oyakata, who was quoted as saying, "If he doesn't return tomorrow [as promised], even I may have to 'throw in the towel.'"

Edited July 29, 2007 by madorosumaru

[slt]

Very interesting thread, lots of new information in here, for me at least.

I'm still wondering whether the consequences of this slipup can really be as harsh as some of the ones raised here. I think I've understood the gravity of the problem, but I would be greatly surprised if anything as strong as a suspension were to be decided (I have no reputation to steak on this, to speak of, but I'll put it up there anyway) against the Yokozuna. That said, what kind of other sanctions could the Kyokai impose on him ? Can they fine him ? Place him as YW on the banzuke for next basho ?

[James H]

Well, he's back. Jiji Press had a picture of a very stern looking yokozuna walking out of Narita Airport and a short story.

No questions answered... but speculation is that the apologies will start tomorrow.

[Kotonosato]

Well, he's back. Jiji Press had a picture of a very stern looking yokozuna walking out of Narita Airport and a short story.

I don't know if 'stern' is the right word. On the news he looked subdued. Maybe even worried. That's not something I'd ever expected to see from him.

The closest thing we've seen to it is the shocked look he used to get after some of those rare losses.

[Asojima]

Well, he's back. Jiji Press had a picture of a very stern looking yokozuna walking out of Narita Airport

[madorosumaru]

Although he was scheduled to meet Kitanoumi Rijicho on Tuesday, Asashoryu, upon arriving from Mongolia on Monday, went with shisho Takasago Oyakata to the Kyokai office to explain and apologize for his behavior. He told the rijicho that he is reflecting on his mistake. He will be staying in Japan for treatment and will gambarize next basho. Takasago Oyakata told the press that the yokozuna will be entering a hospital on the 31st, adding, "I don't think he will be able to participate in the jungyo."

The Kyokai released the doctor's statement on Monday. The physician's opinion is "After viewing the X-rays, the injury to the ligament in the left elbow is in such condition that it requires immediate surgery." Additionally, "The opinion for the fracture in the vertebra was the result of an examination and consultation with the patient." Further, "The six weeks of rest and treatment take the surgery into account."

Takasago Oyakata explained the soccer incident by saying, "I heard that he was asked by the Mongolian government to participate. But that is still not excusable. I was remiss in not providing proper supervision and I am reflecting on my mistakes."

An emergency NSK board meeting will be held on August 1 to determine if action will be taken against Asashoryu and Takasago Oyakata.

Oshima Oyakata, Head of Jungyo Department, said, "We are proceeding with the idea that Asashoryu will be kyujo. As for disciplinary measures, the higher-ups will determine that at the board meeting."

[madorosumaru]

Here are some some summarized details from sanspo.com.

Asashoryu knew how serious the situation was. He had no comments for the assembled media at the airport. Within an hour and half, he was at the Kyokai office. On the way, he stopped briefly at his house to change from the yukata (casual kimono) he wore for the trip to a more formal kimono.

Throughout, he was in a "kowtow" posture. Led by his shisho, he entered the rijicho's office, where he spent approximately 20 minutes explaining his actions and apologizing deeply. Upon exiting the office, his eyes were bloodshot and the two of them went into another room for several minutes of discussion before emerging to meet the press.

The media recognizes that all this is "damage control." Asashoryu and Takasago are accepting the responsibilty for their mistakes. They are apologizing profusely and presenting mitigating factors. They are asking the board to be lenient in disciplining them. At this point, it looks like, at minimum, it would be fines and reduction in pay. There are plenty of voices seeking suspension from honbasho.

When Asashoryu first turned in the doctor's report, the elbow injury was presented as a pre-existing condition and the stress fracture was the main reason for his kyujo from jungyo. Now, it is the reverse--with the elbow requiring immediate surgery and the six weeks of recovery. By making light of the bad back, it makes it more reasonable for Ryu to have participated in the soccer event. The whole brouhaha started with the accusation of "faked injury" and a yokozuna's integrity. Would this be enough to wipe away the doubts and accusations?

[James H]

Asashoryu returns, apologizes

The Daily Yomiuri

Yokozuna Asashoryu returned from Mongolia on Monday and immediately apologized to the Japan Sumo Association for playing soccer in his homeland while he was reportedly unable to participate in a tour due to injury.

The 26-year-old met association chairman Kitanoumi to explain why he was playing soccer days after handing in a sick note to excuse him from this month's tour of Tohoku and Hokkaido.

"I am reflecting on what I have done," said Asashoryu, who was joined by his stablemaster, Takasago, in the meeting at Tokyo's Ryogoku Kokugikan. "I will receive treatment in Japan and do my best at the next grand sumo tournament."

Takasago explained that Asashoryu was requested to appear in the friendly soccer match by the Mongolian government.

"He said the government asked him, but even so, what he did is unacceptable," Takasago said.

Kitanoumi made no comment to reporters, and Takasago would not reveal what the chairman said during their meeting.

[Ikh Mongol Dagvadorj]

So "bad boy" Dagvaa who just happened to be "Yokozuna- supposedly semi-god" is back to his "golden cage"

Surgery sounds weird and suspectible that might worsen his physical condition to win. Next basho is not favorable to Asa, but he has to win only.

Also Asa should retire before being poisoned by unhappy Japanese media/ yakuzas similar those who also forced Shu to retire

http://asia.news.yahoo.com/070725/kyodo/d8qjgdfg0.html

Sumo is not as sacred as it seems like.

Somebody (from Pro-Asa side.) should start investigating about who is behind the story/ what is the driving force.

Edited July 31, 2007 by Ikh Mongol Dagvadorj

[Ikh Mongol Dagvadorj]

Asashoryu is an employee of the kyokai.

is it really legally correct term " Yokozuno is Employee of kyokai" ?

Do they have employment contract?

What is the monthly income of Yokozuno?

Edited July 31, 2007 by Ikh Mongol Dagvadorj

[Sashohitowa]

Isn't this all about playing SOCCER? Hey, didn't ya know that you use your feet and not your elbows in soccer. If fact you not even allowed to use your elbow.

I think that it is more about not participating in the jungyo. Beside, didn't ya know that the dohyo-iri can be much more relaxing for an injured shoulder than a football game?

Not you're saying that an apology is the same as an admission of guilt. Guilty or not, in this situation he is forced to apologize because his penalty will be much more severe if he does not.

Guilty or not, in the same situation, the penalty would be even non-existing if he hadn't play football at first place. And if someone says that he didn't realize what would be the reaction of the Kyokai on his behavior - well - it speaks just bad about Asashoryu...

This is just another case of Kyokai officials whining. What do they think, they are bigger then the government of Mongolia?

I hope after some time you will realize how does this sentence sound.

All the best, take care.