Yokozuna Takakeisho announced his withdrawal from the Spring Grand Sumo Tournament on March 18, 2025, after sustaining a right elbow injury that necessitated medical treatment. This announcement came on the 10th day of the tournament, during a season marked by his struggles and controversial records.
According to a diagnosis submitted to the Japan Sumo Association, Takakeisho is dealing with an intra-articular separation of the right elbow and a cervical sprain, which require approximately two weeks of recovery. His right elbow, previously injured during the eighth day's match against Takanosho, worsened significantly during that contest, leading him to consult with his stablemaster, Tatsunami, later that night. The decision was made to withdraw since he was unable to extend his elbow.
Before this tournament, the 25-year-old wrestler boldly asserted, "I will not withdraw no matter what happens. I will not withdraw even if I lose." However, his aspirations clashed with reality as he faced mounting challenges in the ring, eventually suffering his fourth loss against Ichiyamamoto on the ninth day of the tournament.
Notably, Takakeisho's withdrawal marks the sixth instance of a newly promoted Yokozuna stepping back mid-tournament in the last 39 years and the first since Futahaguro withdrew in the 1986 Autumn Tournament. This event has drawn mixed reactions from fans and commentators alike, dividing opinions sharply.
Takakeisho's performance thus far has been less than stellar. By the ninth day, he had given away three kinboshi (gold stars), an occurrence that has not been witnessed since Harunoumi’s record during the 1964 Spring Tournament. Former Ozeki Kotokaze commented on an NHK broadcast, noting, "Takakeisho's sumo was completely different from that of a Yokozuna," highlighting the discrepancy between expectations of a Yokozuna and his actual performance.
Social media platforms, particularly X (formerly Twitter), have been abuzz with commentary regarding Takakeisho's anticipated success and his subsequent withdrawal. Many critiques have questioned the decision to promote him to Yokozuna at this seemingly early stage in his career. Online users have expressed sentiments such as, "Is it too early to make him Yokozuna?" and "He is using his injury as an excuse. It's clear that he might not have been ready for this level of competition."
In contrast, some fans have shown support and reiterated their hope for Takakeisho's recovery and future success. Tatsunami expressed empathy for Takakeisho, indicating that while the commitment to fight without withdrawing was admirable, this withdrawal was ultimately in the best interest of his health. "This decision became a necessity; I genuinely apologize to the association and the fans," Tatsunami remarked, conveying his disappointment yet understanding of the circumstances.
As Takakeisho steps back from the tournament scene, the weight of expectation rests heavily on his shoulders. The road to recovery represents not just a physical challenge but a mental one, as the division within fan sentiments reveals the complex dynamics of being a top competitor in sumo.
Looking ahead, the summer tournament looms on the horizon, and the wrestling community holds its breath for Takakeisho's return. Observers and fans alike wonder if he can recover not only physically but also regain the confidence that his role as a Yokozuna demands. This young competitor will need to harness resilience to overcome both injury and scrutiny, driving into the next tournament with renewed vigor.
Takeda, one of the tournament’s most promising young wrestlers who previously struggled under pressure, made a remarkable turnaround after an initial crisis. If Takakeisho takes inspiration from that journey, there may still be hope for him to rise from this setback.
