Kinbozan Approaches First Emperor's Cup as Hoshoryu and Oho Keep Pursuing
No. 14 maegashira Kinbozan is on the verge of claiming his first Emperor's Cup, having secured a crucial victory over title contender Kirishima during the New Year Grand Sumo Tournament held at Tokyo's Ryogoku Kokugikan arena. With this win, Kinbozan is now just one victory away from the championship, leading the tournament as it heads into its final day.
Challenging for promotion to the rank of yokozuna, ozeki Hoshoryu and No. 3 maegashira Oho both achieved victories to maintain pressure on Kinbozan, each holding an 11-3 record as the tournament nears its conclusion.
In his match against Kirishima, Kinbozan (12-2) faced a tough challenge from the No. 1 maegashira, who started aggressively with left-overarm and right-underarm belt grips. Despite the intense pressure, Kinbozan demonstrated impressive resilience, managing to keep his balance against Kirishima's attempts to trip and throw him. Ultimately, Kinbozan executed a decisive beltless arm throw, thwarting Kirishima's 10-match winning streak and putting an end to his title aspirations.
At 27 years old and standing at 195 centimeters tall, Kinbozan returned to the top division after a successful stint in the second-tier juryo division, where he won the championship in November at the Kyushu tournament.
Hoshoryu showcased his skill with a commanding performance against Takerufuji, who is ranked No. 11 maegashira. Hoshoryu initiated the match with a quick slap to the face, swiftly gaining underarm belt holds that allowed him to lift Takerufuji and push him out of the ring, eliminating him from title contention. Hoshoryu's victory marks his fifth consecutive win, putting him in a strong position to secure both a championship and promotion, following a 13-2 record in the previous tournament.
Oho, a promising contender and the grandson of former yokozuna Taiho, also remains in contention for his first Emperor's Cup. He narrowly defeated No. 1 maegashira Takanosho, who initially had the upper hand. After a balanced exchange, Oho was forced to retreat but managed to counter with a left armlock throw that destabilized Takanosho, ultimately leading to a decisive thrust down at the edge.
In contrast, former Kyushu tournament champion Kotozakura faced another setback, falling to ozeki Onosato. Kotozakura, who had started the year aiming for yokozuna promotion, now finds himself in a precarious position as he prepares for the upcoming Spring meet in Osaka, where he will need at least eight wins to maintain his rank as a kadoban ozeki.
The final day of the New Year Grand Sumo Tournament promises to be a thrilling culmination, with Kinbozan positioned to secure his first title and Hoshoryu and Oho eager to capitalize on any opportunity.
