The stage was set at Hotel Nikko Kansai Airport in Izumisano, Osaka, where the excitement of the 83rd Meijin Shogi Championship reached a fever pitch on May 10, 2025. Sota Fujii, the reigning Meijin and holder of seven titles, faced off against challenger Takuya Nagase, 9-dan, in the highly anticipated third game of their seven-match series. What unfolded was a masterclass in strategy and skill, culminating in Fujii's remarkable victory after 102 moves, marking his third consecutive win and putting him just one victory away from securing his third straight championship title.
The championship series, co-sponsored by The Mainichi Newspapers Co. and The Asahi Shimbun, began on May 9, 2025, and has captivated fans with its intensity and high stakes. Fujii, at just 22 years old, is already a legend in the making, while Nagase, 32, is looking to claim his first Meijin title. Their rivalry is not just a contest of skill but also a battle of wits, as both players are known for their deep analytical abilities and strategic foresight.
As the game resumed on the second day, both players entered the room with a palpable sense of tension. Nagase arrived first at 8:41 AM, followed by Fujii at 8:47 AM. The match was set to continue from a critical position established the previous day, where Fujii had sealed his 52nd move. The atmosphere was electric as the spectators eagerly awaited the next developments.
Fujii's strategy unfolded methodically, showcasing his prowess as he maneuvered into a favorable position. By the time they reached the 88th move, Fujii executed a decisive attack with the move △6五歩, applying pressure on Nagase's defenses. The game was characterized by a series of tactical exchanges, with both players demonstrating their mastery of the game. However, it was Fujii who steadily built his advantage, prompting commentators to describe his play as "yokozuna sumo," a term that denotes a dominant and powerful style.
As the clock ticked down, the tension heightened. With both players having less than two hours remaining on their respective time allowances, each move became increasingly critical. Fujii, maintaining his focus, made a series of aggressive moves, including the creation of a "tokin" (promoted pawn), which further solidified his position. Nagase, despite his best efforts to mount a counteroffensive, found himself on the defensive.
At 7:28 PM, after a grueling battle that lasted over eight hours, Nagase ultimately resigned, conceding the match to Fujii. This victory not only marked Fujii's third consecutive win in the series but also placed him on the brink of achieving a remarkable third consecutive Meijin title. Post-game, Fujii expressed his satisfaction with his performance, stating, "I was able to concentrate and play. I want to prepare well for the next game."
Looking ahead, the fourth game of the series is scheduled for May 17 and 18, 2025, at Usa Jingu Shrine in Oita Prefecture. With the stakes higher than ever, fans are eagerly anticipating how this championship will unfold. Will Fujii continue his dominance, or can Nagase find a way to turn the tide in his favor? As the series progresses, the excitement and tension surrounding the matches promise to keep fans on the edge of their seats.
This championship is not just a test of skill but also a reflection of the rich history and tradition of shogi, a game that has been played for over 400 years. The Meijin title, one of the most prestigious in the sport, represents the pinnacle of achievement for shogi players. As Fujii and Nagase continue their battle, they carry the weight of this legacy on their shoulders, making each move a significant part of shogi history.
In conclusion, as the series moves to its next stage, all eyes will be on Fujii to see if he can clinch his third consecutive title, while Nagase will undoubtedly be looking to bounce back and prove his mettle as a formidable challenger. The world of shogi eagerly awaits the next chapter in this thrilling championship.
