Historic moments unfolded at the Tohoku regional sumo tournament as Kusanono, the new Juryo-level wrestler, made waves by achieving the unprecedented milestone of 10 consecutive wins. Competing at the Edion Arena Osaka on March 18, 2025, Kusanono faced Chiyonoumi and, after much anticipation, won the bout with his signature push-out technique.
From the outset, Kusanono quickly seized the advantage at the initial charge, thrusting his right hand inward, rapidly moving forward to pressure Chiyonoumi. Although Chiyonoumi initially appeared to win the match, the judges intervened. After reviewing the match, they awarded the win to Kusanono due to his foot placement remaining within the ring during the decisive moment, marking his victory as notable even before the official call.
This victory is notable not only for its immediate impact but also for its historical significance. With this 10-match streak, Kusanono eclipsed prior record holders, including Daikirin and Takamisugi, who previously held the record for nine consecutive victories. This achievement sets Kusanono apart as the record holder for the longest winning streak by any new Juryo wrestler since the current 15-day tournament system was established back during the summer of 1949.
Kusanono expressed his exhilaration post-match, noting, “I’m happy, but since tomorrow is another day, I’ll keep striving and not get complacent.” This mature reflection highlights his awareness of the challenges yet to come as he aims for continued success on the dohyo.
The 23-year-old wrestler’s accomplishment has broader implications for the sumo community, especially as he continues competing fiercely. With only three opponents trailing closely behind him, including veterans and rising talents alike, Kusanono's path forward remains intriguingly competitive. Notably, he maintains three wins over his competitors, who are engaged closely in the standings—making each match pivotal as the tournament progresses.
The significance of Kusanono’s victories cannot be overstated. Winning all 15 matches could potentially propel him to the next level and earn him promotion to the Makuuchi division by the summer tournament. This path reflects the pressures and expectations of rising athletes within the sport, with many eyes on Kusanono, as he’s now considered among the elite of the newcomers.
With his debut season still underway, Kusanono remains committed to his strategy of focusing on sumo, relegated to the background the personal accolades and records. He mentioned, “I’ve not been focused on the records as much as just doing my best on the dohyo.” His level-headedness serves him well as he contemplates the bright future possibilities within competitive sumo.
Looking toward his next match on March 19, Kusanono is set on maintaining his performance. “I just focus on my sumo and do my best,” he reiterated. The wrestling prodigy’s continued resilience mirrors the spirit needed to thrive at the top level—suggesting Kusanono’s approach will be key to his sustained success.
Kusanono’s emergence within the sumo world is emblematic of the new generation of wrestlers, indicating potential shifts across divisions as established competitors find themselves challenged by the youth. For sumo enthusiasts, Kusanono's ascent symbolizes renewal and hope for the sport’s future.
With such invigorated performances and indelible records already established, the stage looks set for Kusanono to continue on this track, building not only on his early successes but also carrying considerable momentum as he moves through the tournament.
Fans and analysts eagerly await to see how far his remarkable 10-game winning streak will take him—while the excitement mounts for the upcoming bouts where Kusanono looks to preserve his impressive streak against equally determined opponents.
