East Yokozuna Hoshoryu, known by his real name Sugarragchaa Tuvshintor, has officially withdrawn from the Spring Grand Sumo Tournament on March 18, 2025, due to medical concerns. The 25-year-old Mongolian wrestler, who competes from Tatsunami stable, submitted documentation to the Japan Sumo Association indicating he will need approximately two weeks of treatment for injuries including 'right elbow joint intra-articular loose body and cervical spine sprain.'
This withdrawal is particularly significant as it marks the first time since the 1986 autumn tournament, when Futahaguro was absent, for a new Yokozuna to sit out of competition due to health issues. Hoshoryu’s performance prior to his withdrawal has been less than stellar; up to the ninth day of the tournament, he had recorded five wins against four losses, allowing for significant room for improvement.
Adding to the drama, Hoshoryu, who ascended to the rank of Yokozuna after winning his second championship last season, had been facing difficulties with his right elbow prior to the tournament. He began the event on shaky ground, losing to Komusubi Abi on the first day. This was followed by consecutive defeats against opponents Takayasu and Ichiyamamoto on the eighth and ninth days, respectively.
Despite his recent struggles, Hoshoryu stands out as one of the prominent figures within Sumo, with the highest number of kinboshi—three—awarded to him since the Showa era. This designation is particularly prestigious, reflecting significant victories against Yokozuna-level opponents.
Fans and experts alike are now left to speculate on how Hoshoryu’s absence will affect the overall excitement of the tournament’s final days. The lack of the newly appointed Yokozuna is expected to reduce the competitive energy, which typically peaks during the last rounds of the Grand Sumo Tournament.
Hoshoryu's current health concerns have raised questions about his long-term career, particularly at such an elite level where physical condition is pivotal. Team doctors and Hoshoryu himself maintain hope for a swift recovery.
While Hoshoryu's immediate focus will be rehabilitation, the Sumo Association and his team will undoubtedly strategize on how to reintegrate him back to full competition strength once he has cleared the injuries he is currently facing. With each passing tournament, the pressure accumulates for wrestlers at the pinnacle of Sumo, and absences like Hoshoryu’s serve as hard reminders of the physical toll the sport exacts.
Looking forward, Hoshoryu's road to reclaiming his place among the elite will be closely monitored as the wrestling community rallies for his swift return. The Spring Grand Sumo Tournament continues, albeit with one major star out of the ring, emphasizing the unpredictable nature of the sport where any wrestler can quickly become unable to compete.
