Bout No. 14

Aminishiki versus Kotoeko

Now we see

Aminishiki.

He has been instructed to fight with a   regular intensity.

He has been matched today with

Kotoeko.

Kotoeko

 has been told that he should show a  regular intensity.

Aminishiki is taller and heavier than Kotoeko.

The best chance for

Aminishiki

 may be his excellent

balance.

The rikishi take their positions…

Nokotta!

the rikishi collide in an awesome crash!

Kotoeko

has the advantage from the tachiai.

Kotoeko

more or less stood up

whereas

Aminishiki

stayed very low.

Kotoeko

exchanges slaps while improving his dohyo position over

Aminishiki

was trying to grapple.

They immediately come together once more…

Kotoeko

circles back, pulling at a leading arm and gains the advantage.

Aminishiki

can't keep his balance!

Graceful movement of both feet and hands by

Kotoeko

who wins by

Oshidashi

JASON'S REVIEW

Let's go back to how Kotoeko won the tachiai.

Kotoeko benefitted from his tachiai height relative to Aminishiki

Kotoeko showed the greater application in what he was trying to do.

Aminishiki expected his opponent to do that.

The tachiai is all about weight, speed and intensity or in a word, momentum.  Who can bring the most, or can you use your opponent's momentum against him? The relative momentum more or less cancelled each other out this time.

Phase 2
After the tachiai the fighters were still apart.

This is where Kotoeko made his winning move.

Kotoeko executed well to back off and pull.

Aminishiki attempted to find the mawashi.

This combination of actions  was good for Aminishiki

Kotoeko had momentum from the previous phase.  This was limited by the  combined intensity of the two rikishi.

At this point Aminishiki had significantly worse balance which greatly limited his ability to act.

Kotoeko was significantly more skilled in his ability to execute his intended action.

Aminishiki maintained a small  weight advantage through the bout.

Aminishiki used the rope in this phase.

The kimarite was Oshidashi  - Pushing the opponent out of the ring

Aminishiki fought with moderate intensity. The same could be said for Kotoeko

Aminishiki didn't concentrate on preventing his opponent from acting. Kotoeko did a little to prevent his opponent's actions.

 

Bout No. 13

Takekaze versus Kyokushuho

Slapping his mawashi like a drum is

Takekaze.

He is from the

Oguruma heya.

His opponent today is

Kyokushuho.

Kyokushuho

 trains at the

Tomozuna stable.

Kyokushuho is taller but Takekazeis the heavier rikishi.

The best chance for

Takekaze

 may be his excellent

balance.

The two stare at each other before the tachiai…

Nokotta!

the rikishi collide in an awesome crash!

Kyokushuho

looks to have the advantage.

Kyokushuho

more or less stood up

whereas

Takekaze

stayed very low.

Kyokushuho

slaps down and retreats, unbalancing

Takekaze

was trying to grapple.

They immediately come together once more…

Kyokushuho

slaps down on his opponent and moves.

Takekaze

loses balance trying to

secure a belt hold.

For a moment there is space between the fighters…

Kyokushuho works his hands to ever better grips and then lifts and slides his giant cargo over the rope!

He wins by Yorikiri

Takekaze wanted to try and close the fight.

JASON'S REVIEW

Let's go back to how Kyokushuho won the tachiai.

Kyokushuho benefitted from his tachiai height relative to Takekaze

Kyokushuho showed the greater application in what he was trying to do.

Takekaze expected his opponent to do that.

The tachiai is all about weight, speed and intensity or in a word, momentum.  Who can bring the most, or can you use your opponent's momentum against him? The relative momentum more or less cancelled each other out this time.

Phase 2
After the tachiai the fighters were still apart.

Kyokushuho got the better of this phase.

Kyokushuho unbalanced him further by trying to pull him forward and down.

Takekaze tried to get a belt hold.

This combination of actions  was good for Takekaze

Kyokushuho had momentum from the previous phase.  This was limited by the  combined intensity of the two rikishi.

At this point Takekaze had less balance than his opponent which put him at a small disadvantage.

Kyokushuho was significantly more skilled in his ability to execute his intended action.

Takekaze maintained a small  weight advantage through the bout.

Neither rikishi  used the rope in this phase. Kyokushuho slipped badly.

Phase 3
At this point the fighters were still apart.

Kyokushuho won the bout when he was able to back off and pull.

Kyokushuho was clinical in managing to make his opponent over-reach.

Takekaze was looking to get a belt grip.

This combination of actions  was good for Takekaze

Kyokushuho had momentum from the previous phase.  This was limited by the  combined intensity of the two rikishi.

At this point Takekaze had significantly worse balance which greatly limited his ability to act.

Kyokushuho was significantly more skilled in his ability to execute his intended action.

Takekaze maintained a small  weight advantage through the bout.

Takekaze used the rope in this phase.

It was classed as a win by Yorikiri  - frontal force out

Takekaze showed great intensity in this bout. Kyokushuho did not commit himself.

Takekaze didn't concentrate on preventing his opponent from acting. Kyokushuho did a little to prevent his opponent's actions.

 

Bout No. 12

Yamaguchi versus Tenei

On our left is the formidable

Yamaguchi.

He has been instructed to fight with a   very measured intensity.

He has been matched today with

Tenei.

Tenei

 has been told that he should show a  regular intensity.

Tenei is taller but Yamaguchiis the heavier rikishi.

The best chance for

Yamaguchi

 may be his excellent

technique.

The rikishi take their positions…

Nokotta!

a deafening slap of flesh as they collide!

Yamaguchi

starts best.

Yamaguchi

sprung up

as did his opponent.

Yamaguchi

lets loose harite, a fury of slaps against the face of

Tenei

was trying to grapple.

They immediately come together once more…

Yamaguchi

demonstrates sharp de-ashi-bayn - fast forward feet movement during an oshi attack.

Tenei

isn't strong enough to stop him!

A great combination of force and technique by

Yamaguchi

who wins by

Yorikiri

JASON'S REVIEW

Let's go back to how Yamaguchi won the tachiai.

Neither fighter gained a significant advantage from their tachiai height.

Tenei showed the greater application in what he was trying to do.

Yamaguchi expected his opponent to do that.

The tachiai is all about weight, speed and intensity or in a word, momentum.  Who can bring the most, or can you use your opponent's momentum against him? Yamaguchi definitely created more momentum.

Phase 2
After the tachiai the fighters were still apart.

This is where Yamaguchi made his winning move.

Yamaguchi was able to force him back with an oshi attack.

Tenei was looking to hold him off.

This combination of actions didn't give either an advantage.

Yamaguchi had momentum from the previous phase.  This was limited by the  combined intensity of the two rikishi.

At this point Yamaguchi had much better balance which gave him a significant advantage in acting.

Tenei was slightly more skilled in his ability to execute his intended action.

Yamaguchi maintained a small  weight advantage through the bout.

Tenei used the rope in this phase.

The finish was Yorikiri  - frontal force out

Yamaguchi fought quite carefully. Tenei held back a little.

Yamaguchi didn't concentrate on preventing his opponent from acting. Tenei did not do much to prevent his opponent's actions.

 

Bout No. 11

Matsuoka versus Takanoiwa

Slapping his mawashi like a drum is

Matsuoka.

He has been instructed to fight with a   regular intensity.

Opposite him will be

Takanoiwa.

Takanoiwa

 has been told that he should show a  very measured intensity.

Takanoiwa is taller and heavier than Matsuoka.

The best chance for

Takanoiwa

 may be his excellent

technique.

The rikishi take their positions…

Nokotta!

the rikishi smash into each other!

Takanoiwa

wins the tachiai.

Takanoiwa

more or less stood up

whereas

Matsuoka

stayed very low.

Takanoiwa

shows nice inashi, outmanoeuvring

Matsuoka

was trying to grapple.

They immediately come together once more…

Matsuoka

uses quick feet to gain a superior angle.

Takanoiwa

loses balance trying to

get into position.

They bounce off each other and prepare to launch their next attacks.

Takanoiwa slams in low and secures the best hold.

Matsuoka never got a lasting hold.

Both pairs of hands frantically search for the opponent's mawashi.

Takanoiwa is trying to throw his opponent but can quite execute.

Matsuoka was trying a throw but didn't have the strength.

This is turning into an epic bout. Sweat is oozing from both men!

Takanoiwa goes for a trip but it doesn’t work this time.

Matsuoka twisted to try and throw his opponent but got caught out.

The crowd applaud warmly at this prolonged effort!

Matsuoka fails with the throw but is still in change.

Takanoiwa looked like he was trying to throw him down.

They are leaning upon one another like rival walrus.

Takanoiwa gains a better hold on his opponents mawashi.

Matsuoka looked like he was trying to throw him down.

Neither man can demonstrate a telling advantage.  Only their hands move.

Takanoiwa fails with the throw but is still in change.

Matsuoka couldn't get the position he needed to execute the throw.

The crowd applaud warmly at this prolonged effort!

Takanoiwa blasts his opponent from the ring with a rally of nasty slaps and pushes!

A win by Tsukidashi

Matsuoka decided to go for a throw and it proved a costly mistake.

JASON'S REVIEW

Let's go back to how Takanoiwa won the tachiai.

Takanoiwa benefitted from his tachiai height relative to Matsuoka

Takanoiwa showed the greater application in what he was trying to do.

Matsuoka expected his opponent to do that.

The tachiai is all about weight, speed and intensity or in a word, momentum.  Who can bring the most, or can you use your opponent's momentum against him? The relative momentum more or less cancelled each other out this time.

Phase 2
After the tachiai the fighters were still apart.

Matsuoka got the better of this phase.

Matsuoka improved his position by attempting to make his opponent over-reach.

Takanoiwa attempted to make his opponent over-reach.

This combination of actions didn't give either an advantage.

Takanoiwa had momentum from the previous phase.  This was limited by the  combined intensity of the two rikishi.

At this point Matsuoka had a small advantage acting with the better balance.

Matsuoka was slightly more skilled in his ability to execute his intended action.

Takanoiwa maintained a small  weight advantage through the bout.

Neither rikishi  used the rope in this phase.

Phase 3
At this point the fighters were still apart.

Takanoiwa improved his position by attempting to get a belt grip.

Takanoiwa was partially successful in his attempt  to find the mawashi.

Matsuoka wanted  to get a belt grip.

This combination of actions didn't give either an advantage.

Matsuoka had momentum from the previous phase.  This was limited by the  combined intensity of the two rikishi.

At this point Matsuoka had a small advantage acting with the better balance.

Takanoiwa was slightly more skilled in his ability to execute his intended action.

Takanoiwa maintained a small  weight advantage through the bout.

Neither rikishi  used the rope in this phase.

Phase 4
At this point the fighters were locked together.

Takanoiwa was partially successful in his attempt  to throw him down.

Takanoiwa unbalanced him further by trying to twist and topple him.

Matsuoka wanted  to twist and topple him.

This combination of actions didn't give either an advantage.

Takanoiwa had momentum from the previous phase.  This was limited by the  combined intensity of the two rikishi.

At this point Matsuoka had a small advantage acting with the better balance.

Takanoiwa was slightly more skilled in his ability to execute his intended action.

Takanoiwa maintained a small  weight advantage through the bout.

Neither rikishi  used the rope in this phase.

Phase 5
At this point the fighters were locked together.

Takanoiwa was partially successful in his attempt  to throw him down.

Takanoiwa unbalanced him further by trying to twist and topple him.

Matsuoka wanted  to throw him down.

This combination of actions didn't give either an advantage.

Takanoiwa had momentum from the previous phase.  This was limited by the  combined intensity of the two rikishi.

At this point Matsuoka had a small advantage acting with the better balance.

Takanoiwa was slightly more skilled in his ability to execute his intended action.

Takanoiwa maintained a small  weight advantage through the bout.

Neither rikishi  used the rope in this phase.

Phase 6
At this point the fighters were locked together.

Matsuoka made progress by trying  to twist and topple him.

Matsuoka made progress by trying  to unbalance and throw him.

Takanoiwa wanted  to throw him down.

This combination of actions didn't give either an advantage.

Takanoiwa had momentum from the previous phase.  This was limited by the  combined intensity of the two rikishi.

At this point Matsuoka had less balance than his opponent which put him at a small disadvantage.

Takanoiwa was slightly more skilled in his ability to execute his intended action.

Takanoiwa maintained a small  weight advantage through the bout.

Neither rikishi  used the rope in this phase.

Phase 7
At this point the fighters were locked together.

Takanoiwa was partially successful in his attempt  to lean on him.

Takanoiwa improved his position by attempting to wait for an opening.

Matsuoka was looking to throw him down.

This combination of actions  was good for Matsuoka

Matsuoka had momentum from the previous phase.  This was limited by the  combined intensity of the two rikishi.

At this point Matsuoka had less balance than his opponent which put him at a small disadvantage.

Takanoiwa was significantly more skilled in his ability to execute his intended action.

Takanoiwa maintained a small  weight advantage through the bout.

Neither rikishi  used the rope in this phase.

Phase 8
At this point the fighters were locked together.

Takanoiwa was partially successful in his attempt  to twist and topple him.

Takanoiwa made progress by trying  to twist and topple him.

Matsuoka was looking to twist and topple him.

This combination of actions didn't give either an advantage.

Takanoiwa had momentum from the previous phase.  This was limited by the  combined intensity of the two rikishi.

At this point Matsuoka had less balance than his opponent which put him at a small disadvantage.

Takanoiwa was slightly more skilled in his ability to execute his intended action.

Takanoiwa maintained a small  weight advantage through the bout.

Neither rikishi  used the rope in this phase.

Phase 9
At this point the fighters were locked together.

Takanoiwa won the bout when he was able to twist and topple him.

Takanoiwa was clinical in managing to throw him.

Matsuoka was looking to throw him.

This combination of actions didn't give either an advantage.

Takanoiwa had momentum from the previous phase.  This was limited by the  combined intensity of the two rikishi.

At this point Matsuoka had less balance than his opponent which put him at a small disadvantage.

Takanoiwa was slightly more skilled in his ability to execute his intended action.

Takanoiwa maintained a small  weight advantage through the bout.

Neither rikishi  used the rope in this phase.

A win by Tsukidashi  - frontal thrust out

Matsuoka fought with moderate intensity. Takanoiwa did not commit himself.

Matsuoka had some success in preventing his opponent's actions. Takanoiwa did a little to prevent his opponent's actions.

 

Bout No. 10

Onozuna versus Wakaseiun

On the east side we have

Onozuna.

He has been instructed to fight with a   regular intensity.

On the western side of the dohyo is 

Wakaseiun.

Wakaseiun

 has been told that he should show a  regular intensity.

Wakaseiun is taller but Onozunais the heavier rikishi.

The best chance for

Wakaseiun

 may be his excellent

balance.

The referee calls them to the centre of the dohyo…

Nokotta!

and bang!  They come together like trains!

Wakaseiun

wins the tachiai.

Wakaseiun

stepped forward

whereas

Onozuna

stayed very low.

Wakaseiun

shows speed and technique to secure a hold on the belt of

Onozuna

whose blows did not land as intended

The wrestlers search for good holds and positions in the yotsu-zumo.

We are definitely into the grappling phase now.

Wakaseiun is first to move from the locked position and easily carries him out!

A win by Yorikiri

Onozuna went to throw and was caught off balance.

JASON'S REVIEW

Let's go back to how Wakaseiun won the tachiai.

Onozuna gained an advantage from a better tachiai height.

Wakaseiun showed the greater application in what he was trying to do.

Onozuna expected his opponent to do that.

The tachiai is all about weight, speed and intensity or in a word, momentum.  Who can bring the most, or can you use your opponent's momentum against him? The relative momentum more or less cancelled each other out this time.

Phase 2
After the tachiai the fighters were locked together.

Wakaseiun got the better of this phase.

Wakaseiun unbalanced him further by trying to twist and topple him.

Onozuna tried to twist and topple him.

This combination of actions didn't give either an advantage.

Wakaseiun had momentum from the previous phase.  This was limited by the  combined intensity of the two rikishi.

At this point Onozuna had less balance than his opponent which put him at a small disadvantage.

Wakaseiun was significantly more skilled in his ability to execute his intended action.

Onozuna maintained a small  weight advantage through the bout.

Neither rikishi  used the rope in this phase.

Phase 3
At this point the fighters were locked together.

Wakaseiun was able to throw him down.

Wakaseiun was able to unbalance and throw him.

Onozuna tried to throw him.

This combination of actions didn't give either an advantage.

Wakaseiun had momentum from the previous phase.  This was limited by the  combined intensity of the two rikishi.

At this point Onozuna had significantly worse balance which greatly limited his ability to act.

Wakaseiun was significantly more skilled in his ability to execute his intended action.

Onozuna maintained a small  weight advantage through the bout.

Neither rikishi  used the rope in this phase.

It was classed as a win by Yorikiri  - frontal force out

Onozuna fought with moderate intensity. The same could be said for Wakaseiun

Onozuna didn't concentrate on preventing his opponent from acting. Wakaseiun did a little to prevent his opponent's actions.

 

Bout No. 9

Abi versus Toyohibiki

On our left is the formidable

Abi.

He is from the

Benihana heya.

He has been matched today with

Toyohibiki.

Toyohibiki

 trains at the

Sakaigawa stable.

Abi is taller than Toyohibiki but Toyohibiki is heavier.

The best chance for

Toyohibiki

 may be his excellent

technique.

The ceremony is over, we are about to begin…

The rikishi smash together, their heads meeting like rams!

Oh what a violent tachiai!

Toyohibiki

immediately gains momentum.

Toyohibiki

stayed very low

as did his opponent.

Toyohibiki

body charge forces back

Abi

was trying to grapple.

They immediately come together once more…

Toyohibiki

shows fine yotsu-zumo skills, gaining the best position.

Abi

is making the best of it but

he was trying to avoid this contact.

Now they become locked.

Toyohibiki seems very at home in these close quarter contests, finishing here with a rapid overarm throw!

He wins by Uwatenage

Abi couldn't get enough behind the throw.

JASON'S REVIEW

Let's go back to how Toyohibiki won the tachiai.

Neither fighter gained a significant advantage from their tachiai height.

Toyohibiki showed the greater application in what he was trying to do.

Toyohibiki out thought his opponent and gained an advantage over Abi

The tachiai is all about weight, speed and intensity or in a word, momentum.  Who can bring the most, or can you use your opponent's momentum against him? Toyohibiki put more behind his tachiai than Abi

Phase 2
After the tachiai the fighters were still apart.

Toyohibiki got the better of this phase.

Toyohibiki was partially successful in his attempt  to secure the belt.

Abi tried to pull him forward and down.

This combination of actions  was good for Toyohibiki

Toyohibiki had momentum from the previous phase.  This was multiplied by combined intensity of the two rikishi.

At this point Abi had less balance than his opponent which put him at a small disadvantage.

Abi was slightly more skilled in his ability to execute his intended action.

Toyohibiki maintained a noticeable  weight advantage through the bout.

Neither rikishi  used the rope in this phase.

Phase 3
At this point the fighters were locked together.

Toyohibiki won the bout when he was able to unbalance and throw him.

Toyohibiki was able to unbalance and throw him.

Abi was looking to unbalance and throw him.

This combination of actions didn't give either an advantage.

Toyohibiki had momentum from the previous phase.  This was multiplied by combined intensity of the two rikishi.

At this point Abi had significantly worse balance which greatly limited his ability to act.

Toyohibiki was slightly more skilled in his ability to execute his intended action.

Toyohibiki maintained a noticeable  weight advantage through the bout.

Abi used the rope in this phase.

The finish was Uwatenage  -  overarm throw,

Abi showed great intensity in this bout. The same could be said for Toyohibiki

Abi didn't concentrate on preventing his opponent from acting. Toyohibiki did not do much to prevent his opponent's actions.

 

Bout No. 8

Hidenoumi versus Daigonishiki

Slapping his mawashi like a drum is

Hidenoumi.

He is from the

Kise heya.

His challenger today is

Daigonishiki.

Daigonishiki

 trains at the

unplaced stable.

Daigonishiki is taller but Hidenoumiis the heavier rikishi.

The best chance for

Hidenoumi

 may be his excellent

technique.

The referee calls them to the centre of the dohyo…

Nokotta!

Oh what a violent tachiai!

Daigonishiki

starts best.

Daigonishiki

more or less stood up

whereas

Hidenoumi

stayed close to the ground - what might be called "hira-gumo" or "low spider" technique .

Daigonishiki

exchanges slaps while improving his dohyo position over

Hidenoumi

Its all over!  That was quick!

Hidenoumi

was out of his depth today!

Daigonishiki

finished with a forceful shoulder slap down.

A win by Hatukikomi.

JASON'S REVIEW

The fight didn’t get past the tachiai.  Lets take a look how it was won by Daigonishiki

Daigonishiki benefitted from his tachiai height relative to Hidenoumi

Daigonishiki showed the greater application in what he was trying to do.

Daigonishiki out thought his opponent and gained an advantage over Hidenoumi

The tachiai is all about weight, speed and intensity or in a word, momentum.  Who can bring the most, or can you use your opponent's momentum against him? Daigonishiki put more behind his tachiai than Hidenoumi

A win by Hatukikomi  - slap down

Hidenoumi showed great intensity in this bout. Daigonishiki held back a little.

Hidenoumi didn't concentrate on preventing his opponent from acting. Daigonishiki did a little to prevent his opponent's actions.

 

Bout No. 7

Asanoyama versus Osunaarashi

On our left is the formidable

Asanoyama.

He has been instructed to fight with a   very high intensity.

On the western side of the dohyo is 

Osunaarashi.

Osunaarashi

 has been told that he should show a  regular intensity.

Osunaarashi is taller but Asanoyamais the heavier rikishi.

The best chance for

Osunaarashi

 may be his excellent

speed.

The rikishi take their positions…

Nokotta!

The rikishi move their great frames to the starting lines…

Osunaarashi

has the upper hand.

Osunaarashi

stayed close to the ground - what might be called "hira-gumo" or "low spider" technique

whereas

Asanoyama

stayed very low.

Osunaarashi

lets loose harite, a fury of slaps against the face of

Asanoyama

whose oshi-zumo was not very effective.

They immediately come together once more…

Asanoyama

drives his way forward.

Osunaarashi

rocks back and tries to hold

as he tries to pull his opponent's arm.

Both rikishi come forward again.

Asanoyama forces him back and out with straight arms to shoulder and neck!

Asanoyama wins by Oshidashi

Osunaarashi couldn't match the speed of the attack.

JASON'S REVIEW

Let's go back to how Osunaarashi won the tachiai.

Osunaarashi benefitted from his tachiai height relative to Asanoyama

Asanoyama looks better skilled at that form of tachiai.

The tachiai tactics more or less cancelled each other out.

The tachiai is all about weight, speed and intensity or in a word, momentum.  Who can bring the most, or can you use your opponent's momentum against him? Asanoyama definitely created more momentum.

Phase 2
After the tachiai the fighters were still apart.

Asanoyama got the better of this phase.

Asanoyama was partially successful in his attempt  to force him back with an oshi attack.

Osunaarashi tried to outmanoeuvre him.

This combination of actions  was good for Osunaarashi

Osunaarashi had momentum from the previous phase.  This was multiplied by combined intensity of the two rikishi.

At this point Asanoyama had a small advantage acting with the better balance.

Asanoyama was significantly more skilled in his ability to execute his intended action.

Asanoyama maintained a small  weight advantage through the bout.

Neither rikishi  used the rope in this phase.

Phase 3
At this point the fighters were still apart.

Asanoyama executed well to hold him off.

Asanoyama executed well to push and shove.

Osunaarashi was looking to back off and pull.

This combination of actions  was good for Osunaarashi

Asanoyama had momentum from the previous phase.  This was multiplied by combined intensity of the two rikishi.

At this point Asanoyama had much better balance which gave him a significant advantage in acting.

Asanoyama was significantly more skilled in his ability to execute his intended action.

Asanoyama maintained a small  weight advantage through the bout.

Osunaarashi used the rope in this phase.

It was classed as a win by Oshidashi  - Pushing the opponent out of the ring

Asanoyama showed great intensity in this bout. Osunaarashi held back a little.

Asanoyama didn't concentrate on preventing his opponent from acting. Osunaarashi did not do much to prevent his opponent's actions.

 

Bout No. 6

Homarefuji versus Mitoryu

Slapping his mawashi like a drum is

Homarefuji.

He is ranked as

Juryo(5w)

Opposite him will be

Mitoryu.

Mitoryu

 is ranked as

Juryo(13e)

Mitoryu is taller and heavier than Homarefuji.

The best chance for

Mitoryu

 may be his excellent

balance.

The crowd fall silent as the rikishi crouch…

The rikishi smash together, their heads meeting like rams!

only the screams of the referee match the energy of the tachiai!

Mitoryu

gets the better of the tachiai.

Mitoryu

stayed very low

as did his opponent.

Mitoryu

makes a series of effective shoves on

Homarefuji

was trying to reach his opponent's belt.

They immediately come together once more…

Mitoryu

drives his way forward.

Homarefuji

rocks back and tries to hold

as he tries to pull his opponent's arm.

The rikishi remain separated.

Mitoryu uses all his weight to force out his opponent!

Mitoryu wins by Oshidashi

Homarefuji took too long to decide what to do.

JASON'S REVIEW

Let's go back to how Mitoryu won the tachiai.

Neither fighter gained a significant advantage from their tachiai height.

Mitoryu showed the greater application in what he was trying to do.

Mitoryu out thought his opponent and gained an advantage over Homarefuji

The tachiai is all about weight, speed and intensity or in a word, momentum.  Who can bring the most, or can you use your opponent's momentum against him? Mitoryu put more behind his tachiai than Homarefuji

Phase 2
After the tachiai the fighters were still apart.

Mitoryu got the better of this phase.

Mitoryu made progress by trying  to push him back.

Homarefuji wanted  to back off and pull.

This combination of actions  was good for Homarefuji

Mitoryu had momentum from the previous phase.  This was multiplied by combined intensity of the two rikishi.

At this point Homarefuji had less balance than his opponent which put him at a small disadvantage.

Mitoryu was significantly more skilled in his ability to execute his intended action.

Mitoryu maintained a small  weight advantage through the bout.

Neither rikishi  used the rope in this phase.

Phase 3
At this point the fighters were still apart.

Mitoryu won the bout when he was able to push him back.

Mitoryu was clinical in managing to push and shove.

Homarefuji attempted to make his opponent over-reach.

This combination of actions  was good for Homarefuji

Mitoryu had momentum from the previous phase.  This was multiplied by combined intensity of the two rikishi.

At this point Homarefuji had significantly worse balance which greatly limited his ability to act.

Mitoryu was significantly more skilled in his ability to execute his intended action.

Mitoryu maintained a small  weight advantage through the bout.

Homarefuji used the rope in this phase.

A win by Oshidashi  - Pushing the opponent out of the ring

Homarefuji fought with moderate intensity. Mitoryu was totally committed to his actions.

Homarefuji didn't concentrate on preventing his opponent from acting. Mitoryu did not do much to prevent his opponent's actions.

 

Bout No. 5

Meisei versus Chiyonoo

In higashi-kata (the eastern side of the dohyo) is

Meisei.

He is from the

Tenshinhan heya.

Facing him is

Chiyonoo.

Chiyonoo

 trains at the

Senkoho stable.

Chiyonoo is taller and heavier than Meisei.

The best chance for

Meisei

 may be his excellent

balance.

We are ready for the tachiai…

Nokotta!

both rikishi launch forwards!

Chiyonoo

immediately gains momentum.

Chiyonoo

more or less stood up

whereas

Meisei

stayed close to the ground - what might be called "hira-gumo" or "low spider" technique .

Chiyonoo

manages passing dasinage (a belt pulling move without body contact), unsettling

Meisei

whose blows did not land as intended

They immediately come together once more…

Chiyonoo

uses quick feet to gain a superior angle.

Meisei

isn't quick enough to

get into position.

For a moment there is space between the fighters…

Chiyonoo wasn't letting up there!  He crashed him out of the dohyo like he wanted to hurt him!

Chiyonoo wins by Oshitaoshi

Meisei simply wasn't fast enough at the end.

JASON'S REVIEW

Let's go back to how Chiyonoo won the tachiai.

Chiyonoo benefitted from his tachiai height relative to Meisei

Chiyonoo showed the greater application in what he was trying to do.

Chiyonoo out thought his opponent and gained an advantage over Meisei

The tachiai is all about weight, speed and intensity or in a word, momentum.  Who can bring the most, or can you use your opponent's momentum against him? The relative momentum more or less cancelled each other out this time.

Phase 2
After the tachiai the fighters were still apart.

Chiyonoo got the better of this phase.

Chiyonoo unbalanced him further by trying to back off and pull.

Meisei attempted to pull him forward and down.

This combination of actions didn't give either an advantage.

Chiyonoo had momentum from the previous phase.  This was limited by the  combined intensity of the two rikishi.

At this point Meisei had less balance than his opponent which put him at a small disadvantage.

Chiyonoo was slightly more skilled in his ability to execute his intended action.

Chiyonoo maintained a negligible weight advantage through the bout.

Neither rikishi  used the rope in this phase.

Phase 3
At this point the fighters were still apart.

Chiyonoo executed well to outmanoeuvre him.

Chiyonoo won the bout when he was able to pull him forward and down.

Meisei wanted  to pull him forward and down.

This combination of actions didn't give either an advantage.

Chiyonoo had momentum from the previous phase.  This was limited by the  combined intensity of the two rikishi.

At this point Meisei had less balance than his opponent which put him at a small disadvantage.

Chiyonoo was slightly more skilled in his ability to execute his intended action.

Chiyonoo maintained a negligible weight advantage through the bout.

Neither rikishi  used the rope in this phase. Meisei lost his footing.

The kimarite was Oshitaoshi  - Pushing the opponent down out of the ring (the opponent falls out of the ring instead of backing out)

Meisei showed great intensity in this bout. Chiyonoo did not commit himself.

Meisei didn't concentrate on preventing his opponent from acting. Chiyonoo did a little to prevent his opponent's actions.

 

Bout No. 4

Seiro versus Tochihiryu

Slapping his mawashi like a drum is

Seiro.

He is ranked as

Juryo(8e)

Opposite him will be

Tochihiryu.

Tochihiryu

 is ranked as

Juryo(8w)

Seiro is taller than Tochihiryu but Tochihiryu is heavier.

The best chance for

Seiro

 may be his excellent

speed.

The wrestlers squat, eying one another…

Nokotta!

gasps from the crowd as they slam together!

Tochihiryu

has the upper hand.

Tochihiryu

more or less stood up

whereas

Seiro

sprung up.

Tochihiryu

shows nice inashi, outmanoeuvring

Seiro

who wasn't quick enough to avoid getting caught.

They immediately come together once more…

Tochihiryu

uses quick feet to gain a superior angle.

Seiro

can't keep his balance!

Graceful movement of both feet and hands by

Tochihiryu

who wins by

Yorikiri

JASON'S REVIEW

Let's go back to how Tochihiryu won the tachiai.

Neither fighter gained a significant advantage from their tachiai height.

Tochihiryu showed the greater application in what he was trying to do.

The tachiai tactics more or less cancelled each other out.

The tachiai is all about weight, speed and intensity or in a word, momentum.  Who can bring the most, or can you use your opponent's momentum against him? The relative momentum more or less cancelled each other out this time.

Phase 2
After the tachiai the fighters were still apart.

This is where Tochihiryu made his winning move.

Tochihiryu executed well to pull him forward and down.

Seiro was looking to secure the belt.

This combination of actions  was good for Seiro

Tochihiryu had momentum from the previous phase.  This was limited by the  combined intensity of the two rikishi.

At this point Seiro had significantly worse balance which greatly limited his ability to act.

Tochihiryu was slightly more skilled in his ability to execute his intended action.

Tochihiryu maintained a negligible weight advantage through the bout.

Neither rikishi  used the rope in this phase.

The finish was Yorikiri  - frontal force out

Seiro fought quite carefully. The same could be said for Tochihiryu

Seiro had some success in preventing his opponent's actions. Tochihiryu was effective in preventing his opponent from acting.

 

Bout No. 3

Tokushoryu versus Ura

Now we see

Tokushoryu.

He is from the

Kise heya.

His opponent today is

Ura.

Ura

 trains at the

Kise stable.

Tokushoryu is taller and heavier than Ura.

The best chance for

Tokushoryu

 may be his excellent

technique.

The crowd fall silent as the rikishi crouch…

Nokotta!

a deafening slap of flesh as they collide!

Tokushoryu

has the upper hand.

Tokushoryu

sprung up

whereas

Ura

stayed close to the ground - what might be called "hira-gumo" or "low spider" technique .

Tokushoryu

body charge forces back

Ura

was trying to grapple.

They immediately come together once more…

Tokushoryu

comes forward with a great thrusting attack.

Ura

can't do enough to stop the attack!

A great combination of force and technique by

Tokushoryu

who wins by

Oshidashi

JASON'S REVIEW

Let's go back to how Tokushoryu won the tachiai.

Ura benefitted from his tachiai height relative to Tokushoryu

Tokushoryu looks better skilled at that form of tachiai.

Tokushoryu expected his opponent to do that.

The tachiai is all about weight, speed and intensity or in a word, momentum.  Who can bring the most, or can you use your opponent's momentum against him? The relative momentum more or less cancelled each other out this time.

Phase 2
After the tachiai the fighters were still apart.

This is where Tokushoryu made his winning move.

Tokushoryu was able to push and shove.

Ura wanted  to back off and pull.

This combination of actions  was good for Ura

Tokushoryu had momentum from the previous phase.  This was limited by the  combined intensity of the two rikishi.

At this point Tokushoryu had much better balance which gave him a significant advantage in acting.

Tokushoryu was slightly more skilled in his ability to execute his intended action.

Tokushoryu maintained a noticeable  weight advantage through the bout.

Ura used the rope in this phase.

A win by Oshidashi  - Pushing the opponent out of the ring

Tokushoryu fought quite carefully. Ura was totally committed to his actions.

Tokushoryu didn't concentrate on preventing his opponent from acting. Ura did a little to prevent his opponent's actions.

 

Bout No. 2

Gagamaru versus Sadanoumi

In higashi-kata (the eastern side of the dohyo) is

Gagamaru.

He has been instructed to fight with a   very high intensity.

His challenger today is

Sadanoumi.

Sadanoumi

 has been told that he should show a  very measured intensity.

Gagamaru is taller and heavier than Sadanoumi.

The best chance for

Gagamaru

 may be his excellent

technique.

The crowd fall silent as the rikishi crouch…

Nokotta!

gasps from the crowd as they slam together!

Sadanoumi

unbalances his opponent.

Sadanoumi

more or less stood up

whereas

Gagamaru

stayed very low.

Sadanoumi

shows nice inashi, outmanoeuvring

Gagamaru

whose blows did not land as intended

They immediately come together once more…

Gagamaru

is forcing his way forward.

Sadanoumi

rocks back and tries to hold

as he tries to pull his opponent's arm.

The thrusting tactics have dominated the start of this bout.

Gagamaru combines timing with fierce power to knock his opponent back.

Sadanoumi couldn’t make any hold stick.

There can't be a way back from here!

Neither man has secured any sort of grip.

Gagamaru gives a fine display of powerful slaps and pushes before hurtling his opponent out of the ring and down!

Gagamaru wins by Oshitaoshi

Sadanoumi never got a lasting hold.

JASON'S REVIEW

Let's go back to how Sadanoumi won the tachiai.

Sadanoumi benefitted from his tachiai height relative to Gagamaru

Gagamaru looks better skilled at that form of tachiai.

Sadanoumi out thought his opponent and gained an advantage over Gagamaru

The tachiai is all about weight, speed and intensity or in a word, momentum.  Who can bring the most, or can you use your opponent's momentum against him? The relative momentum more or less cancelled each other out this time.

Phase 2
After the tachiai the fighters were still apart.

Gagamaru got the better of this phase.

Gagamaru unbalanced him further by trying to push and shove.

Sadanoumi attempted to back off and pull.

This combination of actions  was good for Sadanoumi

Sadanoumi had momentum from the previous phase.  This was limited by the  combined intensity of the two rikishi.

At this point Gagamaru had less balance than his opponent which put him at a small disadvantage.

Gagamaru was significantly more skilled in his ability to execute his intended action.

Gagamaru maintained a significant  weight advantage through the bout.

Neither rikishi  used the rope in this phase. Gagamaru lost his footing.

Phase 3
At this point the fighters were still apart.

Gagamaru made progress by trying  to push him back.

Gagamaru improved his position by attempting to force him back with an oshi attack.

Sadanoumi was looking to secure the belt.

This combination of actions  was good for Gagamaru

Gagamaru had momentum from the previous phase.  This was limited by the  combined intensity of the two rikishi.

At this point Gagamaru had less balance than his opponent which put him at a small disadvantage.

Gagamaru was slightly more skilled in his ability to execute his intended action.

Gagamaru maintained a significant  weight advantage through the bout.

Neither rikishi  used the rope in this phase.

Phase 4
At this point the fighters were still apart.

Gagamaru was able to hold him off.

Gagamaru was clinical in managing to hold him off.

Sadanoumi attempted to get a belt hold.

This combination of actions  was good for Gagamaru

Gagamaru had momentum from the previous phase.  This was limited by the  combined intensity of the two rikishi.

At this point Gagamaru had much better balance which gave him a significant advantage in acting.

Gagamaru was slightly more skilled in his ability to execute his intended action.

Gagamaru maintained a significant  weight advantage through the bout.

Sadanoumi used the rope in this phase. Gagamaru lost his footing.

The kimarite was Oshitaoshi  - Pushing the opponent down out of the ring (the opponent falls out of the ring instead of backing out)

Gagamaru showed great intensity in this bout. Sadanoumi did not commit himself.

Gagamaru didn't concentrate on preventing his opponent from acting. Sadanoumi was effective in preventing his opponent from acting.

 

Bout No. 1

Tsurugisho versus Amakaze

On the east side we have

Tsurugisho.

He has been instructed to fight with a   very high intensity.

He has been matched today with

Amakaze.

Amakaze

 has been told that he should show a  very high intensity.

Amakaze is taller and heavier than Tsurugisho.

The best chance for

Amakaze

 may be his excellent

balance.

The ceremony is over, we are about to begin…

The rikishi smash together, their heads meeting like rams!

the sound of the tachiai echoes through the hall!

Amakaze

has the upper hand.

Amakaze

stayed very low

as did his opponent.

Amakaze

makes a series of effective shoves on

Tsurugisho

was trying to reach his opponent's belt.

They immediately come together once more…

Amakaze

demonstrates sharp de-ashi-bayn - fast forward feet movement during an oshi attack.

Tsurugisho

isn't strong enough to stop him!

What a powerful attack by

Amakaze

who wins by

Yorikiri

JASON'S REVIEW

Let's go back to how Amakaze won the tachiai.

Neither fighter gained a significant advantage from their tachiai height.

Amakaze showed the greater application in what he was trying to do.

Amakaze out thought his opponent and gained an advantage over Tsurugisho

The tachiai is all about weight, speed and intensity or in a word, momentum.  Who can bring the most, or can you use your opponent's momentum against him? Amakaze put more behind his tachiai than Tsurugisho

Phase 2
After the tachiai the fighters were still apart.

This is where Amakaze made his winning move.

Amakaze executed well to push and shove.

Tsurugisho wanted  to hold him off.

This combination of actions didn't give either an advantage.

Amakaze had momentum from the previous phase.  This was multiplied by combined intensity of the two rikishi.

At this point Tsurugisho had less balance than his opponent which put him at a small disadvantage.

Amakaze was slightly more skilled in his ability to execute his intended action.

Amakaze maintained a small  weight advantage through the bout.

Neither rikishi  used the rope in this phase. Tsurugisho lost his footing.

The kimarite was Yorikiri  - frontal force out

Tsurugisho showed great intensity in this bout. The same could be said for Amakaze

Tsurugisho didn't concentrate on preventing his opponent from acting. Amakaze did not do much to prevent his opponent's actions.