𝐍𝐈𝐒𝐇𝐎𝐍𝐎𝐒𝐄𝐊𝐈 𝐨𝐲𝐚𝐤𝐚𝐭𝐚 𝐜𝐨𝐥𝐮𝐦𝐧: 𝐎𝐮𝐭𝐥𝐨𝐨𝐤 𝐨𝐧 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐍𝐞𝐰 𝐘𝐞𝐚𝐫 𝐓𝐨𝐮𝐫𝐧𝐚𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭
The New Year Grand Sumo Tournament kicks off today, January 12 at Tokyo's Ryogoku Kokugikan. Nishonoseki Oyakata (former Yokozuna Kisenosato) analyzes the championship race centered around Terunofuji. He also points out key factors for Kotozakura and Hoshoryu, both vying for Yokozuna promotion for the first time in 55 years.  

With an irregular schedule over the New Year period and the challenges of maintaining physical condition during the cold season, the New Year Tournament is the most difficult to prepare for among the six annual tournaments. In such a demanding environment, Kotozakura and Hoshoryu face a shared theme: (1) performing well in the first five days and (2) the crucial bout against Terunofuji.  

Both wrestlers have previously struggled with early losses that hampered their chances in the championship race. If they can remain undefeated in the opening stages, they’ll gain momentum and approach the latter half of the tournament with confidence. If they stay on track, the decisive match against Terunofuji, likely scheduled for the final days, will be critical. Given their historically poor record against him, securing a win will be essential to cement their case for promotion.  

Kotozakura’s performance in the Kyushu Tournament, where he achieved 14 wins, was particularly noteworthy. His aggressive approach stood out, leaving a fresh impression. The challenge now is whether he can maintain this style of sumo in his first attempt at Yokozuna promotion. Amid increased media attention and events, staying mentally strong will be key to fulfilling his promise to his grandfather.  

Hoshoryu’s mental fortitude could be his greatest weapon. His determined attitude—clearly visible in his comments and demeanor—suggests his unwavering focus on promotion. His ability to transform "pressure" into a "catalyst" and create a positive atmosphere around himself is commendable.  

As for Terunofuji, his decision to compete indicates he sees a realistic chance of victory. While he remains the top contender, his late-stage decline in last year’s Nagoya Tournament raises concerns. Quick matches in the early stages, minimizing strain on his knees and other injuries, will be crucial.  

Onosato, meanwhile, is unlikely to repeat the missteps of the Kyushu Tournament, where he was underprepared. He likely realized last year that opponents are rigorously strategizing against him. He will need to showcase growth and surpass expectations.  

Takerufuji also shows promise. Despite winning 10 bouts in the Kyushu Tournament, he received little recognition, a testament to the high expectations placed on him. I look forward to seeing the rise of young wrestlers as well.

(𝘍𝘰𝘳𝘮𝘦𝘳 𝘠𝘰𝘬𝘰𝘻𝘶𝘯𝘢 𝘒𝘪𝘴𝘦𝘯𝘰𝘴𝘢𝘵𝘰, 𝘵𝘳𝘢𝘯𝘴𝘭𝘢𝘵𝘪𝘰𝘯 𝘣𝘺 𝘐𝘵𝘢𝘭𝘪𝘢𝘯𝘰𝘻𝘦𝘬𝘪)

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