Yokozuna Hoshoryu Withdraws From Spring Sumo Tournament Due To Injury
New Yokozuna's absence marks the first since Futahaguro's withdrawal 39 years ago
Yokozuna Hoshoryu, 25, has officially withdrawn from the Spring Grand Sumo Tournament, starting from the 10th day of the event on March 18, 2025. The announcement was made to the Japan Sumo Association after Hoshoryu submitted his medical certificate, which indicated he requires approximately two weeks of treatment for injuries sustained to his right elbow and cervical spine.
Hoshoryu injured his elbow during his match against Takayasu on the eighth day of the tournament. Prior to his withdrawal, he was struggling with a record of 5 wins and 4 losses, having suffered defeats to Maegashira-ranked opponents on multiple occasions. Notably, as of the ninth day, he had already allowed three kinboshi, or gold stars, to his opponents, matching the worst record for any new Yokozuna since Tochinoshin Umi back during the 1964 Spring tournament.
The withdrawal is especially significant as it marks the first time since 1986, when Futahaguro withdrew during the Autumn tournament, for any new Yokozuna to drop out of competition so early. Hoshoryu's stablemaster, Tatsunami, expressed regret over the situation, stating, “I didn’t want to let him continue to fight with inadequate strength.” He mentioned Hoshoryu had claimed earlier, before the tournament, his determination not to withdraw, stating, “No matter what happened, I won't withdraw, even if I lose.”
Despite his ambitions, Hoshoryu could not perform at the level he wished. By the time he reached the ninth day, he struggled to find his footing, stating, “My stance just isn’t solid. This tournament is tough, but it’s all part of the learning experience.” Fans and officials alike are disappointed, as this absence leaves the tournament without any reigning Yokozuna due to the previous withdrawal of Terunofuji during the last tournament.
Tatsunami summarized Hoshoryu’s emotions, saying, “He was trying hard to fulfill everyone’s expectations, and he feels the pressure of being the first new Yokozuna since Terunofuji. It’s unfortunate because he really wanted to perform well this time.” Hoshoryu, born as Sugalagchaa Biyambasuren from Mongolia, ascended to the rank of Yokozuna earlier this year after winning the January tournament.
His quick rise to the top of the sport has garnered both excitement and expectations, making the absence even more pronounced. Now, with Hoshoryu sidelined for at least two weeks, the question remains as to how he will rebound from this setback upon his return. For the time being, Ura, Hoshoryu's opponent who was scheduled for the 10th day of competition, will win by default.
Looking to the future, fans and commentators are left speculating about Hoshoryu’s potential return and whether he can live up to the legacy of previous champions. With this unexpected hiatus, aspirations to mirror the success of past Yokozunas are temporarily shelved, allowing Hoshoryu to focus on recovery instead.
Officials say they continue to monitor the situation closely, and as fans express concern, the essence of sumo remains as stories of determination and resilience. Hoshoryu's efforts, even though currently impeded by injury, will undoubtedly continue to inspire discussions within sumo circles for the seasons to come.
For fans wondering about the future of the sport, there remains hope. Hoshoryu's ambitions and dedication reflect the heart of sumo, and as he recovers, all eyes will be on his progress to return stronger than before, reminding everyone of the unwavering spirit intrinsic to the sport.
