On March 18, 2025, the Grand Sumo Spring Tournament held its 10th day at the Edion Arena in Osaka, and the spotlight was firmly on Hironaga Takayasu. The sekitori, competing outside the top division ranks, faced Daenokuni and emerged victorious by yori-kiri, which means he pushed his opponent out, securing his place at the top of the tournament standings with 9 wins and just 1 loss.
This victory placed Takayasu alone at the helm, as he now leads the tournament, significantly raising the stakes for his competitors. Among those chasing him are Daenokuni, Shonanzakura, and Minaminoumi, each with 2 losses. These wrestlers are prepared to battle it out as the tournament progresses, hoping to close the gap.
Meanwhile, Kotoshokiku, who was also contending for the top ranks, faced Ichiyamamoto earlier on the same day. Unfortunately for Kotoshokiku, the match did not go as planned. He was defeated and now has recorded 5 wins against 5 losses, putting him at risk of falling out of contention.
Adding to the day’s events was the announcement of Hoshoryu, the new Yokozuna, who withdrew from the tournament due to right elbow pain. His absence is felt strongly by fans and competitors alike, as the excitement of his debut was anticipated throughout the tournament. The fit of top athletes like Hoshoryu is always under scrutiny, especially at such prominent events.
On another noteworthy match, Mitakeumi faced off against Osho, clinching his 7th win of the tournament. With this win, Mitakeumi’s record stands impressive at 7 wins to 3 losses, solidifying his standing among the top wrestlers of the tournament. Osho, on the other hand, is now struggling at 4 wins and 6 losses, putting him at risk of relegation if he doesn't improve quickly.
Kotoshokiku's defeat can be seen as particularly disheartening, especially since he is ranked as Ozeki—a designation requiring him to perform at the highest levels consistently. Now, he must recover quickly to maintain his rank as he approaches the latter days of the tournament.
Further down the ranks, Kusanono, the new Juryo wrestler, is making waves with his unparalleled performance. He continues to lead with 10 consecutive wins, which makes him the standout of the Juryo division. Currently, he leads his competitors by 3 games, leaving viewers intrigued to see if he can sustain this remarkable streak.
The atmosphere at the Edion Arena is electric this year, filled with avid fans who are witnessing thrilling displays of sportsmanship, athleticism, and tradition. Each match tells its own story, filled with drama and high stakes, and as the tournament progresses toward the finale, excitement continues to build.
The performances seen on this day set the tone for what will come next, with every competitor striving to maintain or improve their standing. Each victory is more than just points on the board; it's about pride, the weight of tradition, and the relentless pursuit of greatness.
With Takayasu leading the tournament and all eyes watching closely, the next matches will be pivotal. Wrestlers like Daenokuni, Mitakeumi, and Kotoshokiku have the skill and determination to shift the dynamics of the standings. Fans can expect fierce competition as the next few days will determine who remains at the top and who may falter under the pressure.
Details of future matches will be eagerly anticipated as wrestlers prepare for the challenge. Will Takayasu maintain his lead, or will one of his opponents overtake him as the tournament nears its conclusion? For now, all eyes remain fixed on the mat as the Grand Sumo Spring Tournament continues to deliver thrilling moments, prominent wins, and heart-felt stories of resilience and rivalry.
