Bout No. 14

Matsuoka versus Wakaseiun

Slapping his mawashi like a drum is

Matsuoka.

He has been instructed to fight with a   regular intensity.

Facing him is

Wakaseiun.

Wakaseiun

 has been told that he should show a  regular intensity.

Wakaseiun is taller but Matsuokais the heavier rikishi.

The best chance for

Wakaseiun

 may be his excellent

balance.

The ceremony is over, we are about to begin…

Nokotta!

a deafening slap of flesh as they collide!

Wakaseiun

looks to have the advantage.

Wakaseiun

stepped forward

whereas

Matsuoka

stayed very low.

Wakaseiun

works a right-arm inside grip on

Matsuoka

who gets an inferior hold.

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

The rikishi lean into each other securing their holds.

Matsuoka tries for a sideways throw but was unable to get enough leverage.

Wakaseiun was trying to trip his opponent.

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

Matsuoka is not short of finishing it with that throw.

Wakaseiun went to throw and was caught off balance.

He is very close to going down!

The two giants remain locked together.

Matsuoka has his head down and those great leg get to work.  He pushes him out!

A win by Oshidashi

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

JASON'S REVIEW

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

Matsuoka gained an advantage from a better tachiai height.

There was not much too choose between them in terms of skill.

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 locked together.

Matsuoka got the better of this phase.

Matsuoka was partially successful in his attempt  to throw him.

Wakaseiun wanted  to throw him down.

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 Matsuoka had a small advantage acting with the better balance.

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

Matsuoka maintained a negligible weight advantage through the bout.

Neither rikishi  used the rope in this phase.

Phase 3
At this point the fighters were locked together.

Matsuoka made progress by trying  to throw him.

Matsuoka made progress by trying  to twist and topple him.

Wakaseiun tried to twist and topple him.

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.

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

Matsuoka maintained a negligible weight advantage through the bout.

Neither rikishi  used the rope in this phase.

Phase 4
At this point the fighters were locked together.

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

Matsuoka improved his position by attempting to throw him.

Wakaseiun wanted  to twist and topple him.

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 much better balance which gave him a significant advantage in acting.

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

Matsuoka maintained a negligible weight advantage through the bout.

Neither rikishi  used the rope in this phase.

Phase 5
At this point the fighters were locked together.

Matsuoka executed well to throw him.

Matsuoka was clinical in managing to twist and topple him.

Wakaseiun was looking to throw him.

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 much better balance which gave him a significant advantage in acting.

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

Matsuoka maintained a negligible weight advantage through the bout.

Wakaseiun used the rope in this phase.

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

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

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

 

Bout No. 13

Kyokushuho versus Toyohibiki

Now we see

Kyokushuho.

He is ranked as

Juryo(3w)

Opposite him will be

Toyohibiki.

Toyohibiki

 is ranked as

Juryo(6w)

Kyokushuho is taller than Toyohibiki but Toyohibiki is heavier.

The best chance for

Toyohibiki

 may be his excellent

balance.

The two stare at each other before the tachiai…

Nokotta!

a gigantic collision as the rikishi meet!

Kyokushuho

starts better.

Kyokushuho

more or less stood up

whereas

Toyohibiki

stayed very low.

Kyokushuho

exchanges slaps while improving his dohyo position over

Toyohibiki

whose thrusts lacked direction.

They immediately come together once more…

Toyohibiki

gets an excellent rear belt hold with his left hand.

Kyokushuho

is knocked back

he was trying to avoid this contact.

Now they are clasping each other.

Kyokushuho goes for brute force but his opponent uses the rope to hold him up.

Toyohibiki couldn't get enough behind the throw.

They are both waiting for the other to tire.

Toyohibiki has the better position and shoulders his opponent towards the edge.

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

They are leaning upon one another like rival walrus.

Kyokushuho muscles his opponents away from the centre of the dohyo.

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

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

Toyohibiki tries to use his superior hold to get his opponent to the doho.

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

He seems powerless in the face of this lift.

They are both waiting for the other to tire.

Kyokushuho has the better position but is making only slow progress.

Toyohibiki went to throw and was caught off balance.

He is toppling over!

The stalemate is unbroken.  They remain with faces pressed sideways into shoulders.

Toyohibiki rests on his opponent and then bursts into action, lifting him clean out!

Toyohibiki wins by Yorikiri

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

JASON'S REVIEW

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

Kyokushuho gained an advantage from a better tachiai height.

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

Kyokushuho 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? Toyohibiki put more behind his tachiai than Kyokushuho

Phase 2
After the tachiai the fighters were still apart.

Toyohibiki got the better of this phase.

Toyohibiki unbalanced him further by trying to get a belt grip.

Kyokushuho was looking to outmanoeuvre him.

This combination of actions  was good for Toyohibiki

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

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

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

Toyohibiki 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.

Kyokushuho unbalanced him further by trying to use his hold to carry him out.

Kyokushuho unbalanced him further by trying to lift him out.

Toyohibiki attempted to throw him.

This combination of actions  was good for Kyokushuho

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

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

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

Toyohibiki 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.

Toyohibiki was partially successful in his attempt  to lift him out.

Toyohibiki was partially successful in his attempt  to lift him out.

Kyokushuho was looking to throw him down.

This combination of actions  was good for Toyohibiki

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

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

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

Toyohibiki 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.

Kyokushuho made progress by trying  to use his hold to carry him out.

Kyokushuho unbalanced him further by trying to use his hold to carry him out.

Toyohibiki was looking to twist and topple him.

This combination of actions  was good for Kyokushuho

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

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

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

Toyohibiki 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.

Toyohibiki was partially successful in his attempt  to use his hold to carry him out.

Toyohibiki made progress by trying  to power him out.

Kyokushuho was looking to throw him down.

This combination of actions  was good for Toyohibiki

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

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

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

Toyohibiki 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.

Kyokushuho was partially successful in his attempt  to lift him out.

Kyokushuho was partially successful in his attempt  to carry him out.

Toyohibiki attempted to unbalance and throw him.

This combination of actions  was good for Kyokushuho

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

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

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

Toyohibiki 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.

Toyohibiki was able to power him out.

Toyohibiki was clinical in managing to power him out.

Kyokushuho attempted to unbalance and throw him.

This combination of actions  was good for Toyohibiki

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

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

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

Toyohibiki maintained a small  weight advantage through the bout.

Neither rikishi  used the rope in this phase.

The finish was Yorikiri  - frontal force out

Kyokushuho fought quite carefully. Toyohibiki was totally committed to his actions.

Kyokushuho had some success in preventing his opponent's actions. Toyohibiki did not do much to prevent his opponent's actions.

 

Bout No. 12

Aminishiki versus Onozuna

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

Aminishiki.

He is ranked as

Juryo(1e)

On the western side of the dohyo is 

Onozuna.

Onozuna

 is ranked as

Juryo(12e)

Aminishiki is taller than Onozuna but Onozuna is heavier.

The best chance for

Aminishiki

 may be his excellent

technique.

The wrestlers squat, eying one another…

The rikishi smash together, their heads meeting like rams!

and bang!  They come together like trains!

Onozuna

has the advantage from the tachiai.

Onozuna

stayed very low

as did his opponent.

Onozuna

delivered his shoulder to the throat of

Aminishiki

Its all over!  That was quick!

Aminishiki

never got going!

Onozuna

was angry today!  What force!

A win by Oshidashi.

JASON'S REVIEW

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

Neither fighter gained a significant advantage from their tachiai height.

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

Onozuna out thought his opponent and gained an advantage over Aminishiki

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.

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

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

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

 

Bout No. 11

Takekaze versus Chiyonoo

On our left is the formidable

Takekaze.

He is from the

Oguruma heya.

His opponent today is

Chiyonoo.

Chiyonoo

 trains at the

Senkoho stable.

Chiyonoo is taller but Takekazeis the heavier rikishi.

The best chance for

Takekaze

 may be his excellent

balance.

The rikishi move into tachiai position…

Nokotta!

Oh what a violent tachiai!

Chiyonoo

starts better.

Chiyonoo

more or less stood up

whereas

Takekaze

stayed very low.

Chiyonoo

exchanges slaps while improving his dohyo position over

Takekaze

attempted a belt hold.

They immediately come together once more…

Chiyonoo

shows fine kumi skills, gaining the best position.

Takekaze

has been outmanoeuvred!

Graceful movement of both feet and hands by

Chiyonoo

who wins by

Oshidashi

JASON'S REVIEW

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

Chiyonoo benefitted from his tachiai height relative to Takekaze

Chiyonoo 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? Takekaze definitely created more momentum.

Phase 2
After the tachiai the fighters were still apart.

This is where Chiyonoo made his winning move.

Chiyonoo was clinical in managing to pull him forward and down.

Takekaze wanted  to find the mawashi.

This combination of actions  was good for Takekaze

Chiyonoo 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.

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

Takekaze maintained a negligible weight advantage through the bout.

Takekaze used the rope in this phase.

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

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

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

 

Bout No. 10

Homarefuji versus Kotoeko

On the east side we have

Homarefuji.

He is from the

Isegahama heya.

On the western side of the dohyo is 

Kotoeko.

Kotoeko

 trains at the

Sadogatake stable.

Homarefuji is taller and heavier than Kotoeko.

The best chance for

Homarefuji

 may be his excellent

technique.

The rikishi take their positions…

Nokotta!

the rikishi collide in an awesome crash!

Homarefuji

gets the better of the tachiai.

Homarefuji

stayed very low

whereas

Kotoeko

more or less stood up.

Homarefuji

works a right-arm inside grip on

Kotoeko

who tried to evade.

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

Both men are committed to grappling now.

Homarefuji saw and opportunity to get his arms across his opponents back and quickly throws him down!

Homarefuji wins by Sukuinage

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

JASON'S REVIEW

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

Kotoeko benefitted from his tachiai height relative to Homarefuji

Homarefuji looks better skilled at that form of tachiai.

Homarefuji 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? Homarefuji definitely created more momentum.

Phase 2
After the tachiai the fighters were locked together.

Homarefuji got the better of this phase.

Homarefuji made progress by trying  to unbalance and throw him.

Kotoeko wanted  to unbalance and throw him.

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

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

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

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

Homarefuji 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.

Homarefuji executed well to throw him down.

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

Kotoeko wanted  to twist and topple him.

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

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

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

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

Homarefuji maintained a small  weight advantage through the bout.

Neither rikishi  used the rope in this phase.

A win by Sukuinage  - beltless arm throw

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

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

 

Bout No. 9

Asanoyama versus Mitoryu

On the east side we have

Asanoyama.

He is ranked as

Juryo(4e)

His opponent today is

Mitoryu.

Mitoryu

 is ranked as

Juryo(13e)

Mitoryu is taller and heavier than Asanoyama.

The best chance for

Mitoryu

 may be his excellent

balance.

We are ready for the tachiai…

The rikishi smash together, their heads meeting like rams!

and bang!  They come together like trains!

Asanoyama

has the upper hand.

Asanoyama

stayed very low

as did his opponent.

Asanoyama

uses hazuoshi (lifting push under armpit) technique to push back

Mitoryu

whose thrusts lacked direction.

They immediately come together once more…

Mitoryu

is forcing his way forward.

Asanoyama

is knocked back

as he tried to push.

If either man wanted a hold they have failed.

Mitoryu makes progress with some hefty forearm pushes.

Asanoyama was unable to get in a telling shove.

Neither man has secured any sort of grip.

Mitoryu powers into his opponent, knocking him back.

Asanoyama failed to make an effective thrust.

He is using the tawara to stop himself going out!

The bout remains at distance.

Mitoryu gains gasps from the crowd with a clinical force out!  His opponent has ended face down in the lap of waiting wrestlers!

He wins by Oshitaoshi

Asanoyama failed to make his thrusts tell.

JASON'S REVIEW

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

Neither fighter gained a significant advantage from their tachiai height.

There was not much too choose between them in terms of skill.

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? Mitoryu put more behind his tachiai than Asanoyama

Phase 2
After the tachiai the fighters were still apart.

Mitoryu got the better of this phase.

Mitoryu made progress by trying  to push and shove.

Asanoyama wanted  to force him back with an oshi attack.

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

Asanoyama 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.

Mitoryu was slightly 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. Asanoyama lost his footing.

Phase 3
At this point the fighters were still apart.

Mitoryu made progress by trying  to force him back with an oshi attack.

Mitoryu made progress by trying  to push him back.

Asanoyama attempted to hold him off.

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

Mitoryu 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.

Mitoryu was slightly 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 4
At this point the fighters were still apart.

Mitoryu was partially successful in his attempt  to push and shove.

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

Asanoyama tried to hold him off.

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

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

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

Mitoryu was slightly 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 5
At this point the fighters were still apart.

Mitoryu executed well to force him back with an oshi attack.

Mitoryu won the bout when he was able to push and shove.

Asanoyama tried to force him back with an oshi attack.

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

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

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

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

Mitoryu maintained a small  weight advantage through the bout.

Asanoyama used the rope in this phase.

A win by Oshitaoshi  - Pushing the opponent down out of the ring (the opponent falls out of the ring instead of backing out)

Asanoyama showed great intensity in this bout. The same could be said for Mitoryu

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

 

Bout No. 8

Takanoiwa versus Sadanoumi

On the east side we have

Takanoiwa.

He is ranked as

Juryo(3e)

Opposite him will be

Sadanoumi.

Sadanoumi

 is ranked as

Juryo(2w)

Sadanoumi is taller but Takanoiwais the heavier rikishi.

The best chance for

Sadanoumi

 may be his excellent

technique.

The referee calls them to the centre of the dohyo…

Nokotta!

a deafening slap of flesh as they collide!

Sadanoumi

starts best.

Sadanoumi

more or less stood up

as did his opponent.

Sadanoumi

exchanges slaps while improving his dohyo position over

Takanoiwa

who was trying to prevent that.

They immediately come together once more…

Sadanoumi

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

Takanoiwa

isn't quick enough to

secure a belt hold.

Both rikishi come forward again.

Sadanoumi gets some momentum and keeps going with it!  Great push out!

He wins by Oshidashi

Takanoiwa literally never got to grips with his opponent.

JASON'S REVIEW

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

Neither fighter gained a significant advantage from their tachiai height.

There was not much too choose between them in terms of skill.

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.

Sadanoumi got the better of this phase.

Sadanoumi made progress by trying  to make his opponent over-reach.

Takanoiwa wanted  to get a belt hold.

This combination of actions  was good for Takanoiwa

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

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

Sadanoumi 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.

Sadanoumi executed well to make his opponent over-reach.

Sadanoumi was able to back off and pull.

Takanoiwa was looking to get a belt grip.

This combination of actions  was good for Takanoiwa

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

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

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

Takanoiwa maintained a small  weight advantage through the bout.

Takanoiwa used the rope in this phase.

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

Takanoiwa fought quite carefully. The same could be said for Sadanoumi

Takanoiwa had some success in preventing his opponent's actions. Sadanoumi was effective in preventing his opponent from acting.

 

Bout No. 7

Meisei versus Osunaarashi

Slapping his mawashi like a drum is

Meisei.

He is ranked as

Juryo(7w)

He has been matched today with

Osunaarashi.

Osunaarashi

 is ranked as

Juryo(10e)

Osunaarashi is taller and heavier than Meisei.

The best chance for

Osunaarashi

 may be his excellent

technique.

The crowd fall silent as the rikishi crouch…

The rikishi smash together, their heads meeting like rams!

Oh what a violent tachiai!

Meisei

unbalances his opponent.

Meisei

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

as did his opponent.

Meisei

makes a series of effective shoves on

Osunaarashi

whose thrusts lacked direction.

They immediately come together once more…

Meisei

is forcing his way forward.

Osunaarashi

is taken back

as he tries to pull his opponent's arm.

Both rikishi come forward again.

Meisei comes forward in a hanare whirlwind (various pushing techniques).

Osunaarashi took too long to decide what to do.

He is really up against it now!

Neither man has secured any sort of grip.

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

Osunaarashi showed poor instincts and got caught.

There can't be a way back from here!

For a moment there is space between the fighters…

Meisei forces him back by his shoulder, back and out!

He wins by Oshidashi

Osunaarashi was trying to get to the side.

JASON'S REVIEW

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

Meisei gained an advantage from a better tachiai height.

Osunaarashi 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? Meisei definitely created more momentum.

Phase 2
After the tachiai the fighters were still apart.

Meisei got the better of this phase.

Meisei improved his position by attempting to push him back.

Osunaarashi wanted  to outmanoeuvre him.

This combination of actions  was good for Osunaarashi

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

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

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

Osunaarashi 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.

Meisei unbalanced him further by trying to hold him off.

Meisei unbalanced him further by trying to hold him off.

Osunaarashi attempted to outmanoeuvre him.

This combination of actions  was good for Osunaarashi

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

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

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

Osunaarashi maintained a small  weight advantage through the bout.

Neither rikishi  used the rope in this phase.

Phase 4
At this point the fighters were still apart.

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

Meisei improved his position by attempting to push him back.

Osunaarashi tried to pull him forward and down.

This combination of actions  was good for Osunaarashi

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

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

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

Osunaarashi maintained a small  weight advantage through the bout.

Osunaarashi used the rope in this phase.

Phase 5
At this point the fighters were still apart.

Meisei was clinical in managing to hold him off.

Meisei was clinical in managing to push him back.

Osunaarashi tried to back off and pull.

This combination of actions  was good for Osunaarashi

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

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

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

Osunaarashi maintained a small  weight advantage through the bout.

Osunaarashi used the rope in this phase. Osunaarashi slipped badly.

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

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

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

 

Bout No. 6

Seiro versus Yamaguchi

On our left is the formidable

Seiro.

He is ranked as

Juryo(8e)

His opponent today is

Yamaguchi.

Yamaguchi

 is ranked as

Juryo(9w)

Seiro is taller than Yamaguchi but Yamaguchi is heavier.

The best chance for

Yamaguchi

 may be his excellent

technique.

The rikishi move into tachiai position…

Nokotta!

a gigantic collision as the rikishi meet!

Yamaguchi

looks to have the advantage.

Yamaguchi

sprung up

as did his opponent.

Yamaguchi

delivered his shoulder to the throat of

Seiro

who wasn't quick enough to avoid getting caught.

They immediately come together once more…

Seiro

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

Yamaguchi

is knocked back

he tried to push him away.

The rikishi mesh, each clasping for some sort of grip.

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

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

What a bout!  Still no breakthrough!

Seiro is unable to pull of the throw but still holds the best cards here.

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

What a bout!  Still no breakthrough!

Seiro twists sharply trying to fling his opponent over his back but he was wise to it.

Yamaguchi couldn't get enough motion into his attempted throw.

He just does enough to stay up.

The wrestlers continue to seek a telling grip on the other's belt.

Seiro knows how to use an overarm hold alright!  His has left a hollow in the clay with that throw down!

A win by Uwatenage

Yamaguchi went to throw and was caught off balance.

JASON'S REVIEW

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

Neither fighter gained a significant advantage from their tachiai height.

There was not much too choose between them in terms of skill.

Seiro 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.

Seiro got the better of this phase.

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

Yamaguchi attempted to push and shove.

This combination of actions  was good for Yamaguchi

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

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

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

Yamaguchi 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.

Seiro improved his position by attempting to unbalance and throw him.

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

Yamaguchi attempted to throw him down.

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

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

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

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

Yamaguchi 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.

Seiro unbalanced him further by trying to unbalance and throw him.

Seiro improved his position by attempting to twist and topple him.

Yamaguchi was looking to unbalance and throw him.

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

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

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

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

Yamaguchi 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.

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

Seiro improved his position by attempting to unbalance and throw him.

Yamaguchi was looking to throw him down.

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

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

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

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

Yamaguchi 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.

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

Seiro was able to twist and topple him.

Yamaguchi wanted  to twist and topple him.

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

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

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

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

Yamaguchi maintained a small  weight advantage through the bout.

Yamaguchi used the rope in this phase.

It was classed as a win by Uwatenage  -  overarm throw,

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

Seiro had some success in preventing his opponent's actions. Yamaguchi did not do much to prevent his opponent's actions.

 

Bout No. 5

Abi versus Gagamaru

Now we see

Abi.

He is from the

Benihana heya.

He has been matched today with

Gagamaru.

Gagamaru

 trains at the

Kise stable.

Abi is taller than Gagamaru but Gagamaru is heavier.

The best chance for

Gagamaru

 may be his excellent

technique.

The referee calls them to the centre of the dohyo…

The rikishi smash together, their heads meeting like rams!

both rikishi launch forwards!

Gagamaru

has the upper hand.

Gagamaru

stayed very low

as did his opponent.

Gagamaru

body charge forces back

Abi

was trying to reach his opponent's belt.

They immediately come together once more…

Abi

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

Gagamaru

loses balance trying to

connect cleanly with his thrust.

The rikishi remain separated.

Gagamaru pushes him out with extended arms!

He wins by Oshidashi

Abi landed ineffective slaps.

JASON'S REVIEW

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

Neither fighter gained a significant advantage from their tachiai height.

There was not much too choose between them in terms of skill.

Gagamaru 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? Gagamaru put more behind his tachiai than Abi

Phase 2
After the tachiai the fighters were still apart.

Abi got the better of this phase.

Abi made progress by trying  to make his opponent over-reach.

Gagamaru tried to push him back.

This combination of actions  was good for Abi

Gagamaru 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.

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

Gagamaru maintained a significant  weight advantage through the bout.

Abi used the rope in this phase.

Phase 3
At this point the fighters were still apart.

Gagamaru was clinical in managing to force him back with an oshi attack.

Gagamaru executed well to force him back with an oshi attack.

Abi wanted  to force him back with an oshi attack.

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

Abi 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.

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.

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

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

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

 

Bout No. 4

Ura versus Tenei

On the east side we have

Ura.

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

On the western side of the dohyo is 

Tenei.

Tenei

 has been told that he should show a  regular intensity.

Tenei is taller and heavier than Ura.

The best chance for

Tenei

 may be his excellent

balance.

The rikishi move into tachiai position…

Nokotta!

The rikishi move their great frames to the starting lines…

Ura

gets the better of the tachiai.

Ura

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

whereas

Tenei

sprung up.

Ura

fixes a good left hand grip on the mawashi of

Tenei

manages an inside grip.

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

The wrestlers continue to seek a telling grip on the other's belt.

Ura disguises a throwing attack - yoru to misete nage o utta- faking yorikiri and trying to throw.  Nearly came off too!

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

What a bout!  Still no breakthrough!

Tenei disguises a throwing attack - yoru to misete nage o utta- faking yorikiri and trying to throw.  Nearly came off too!

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

The wrestlers continue to seek a telling grip on the other's belt.

Ura spins his opponent who only just keeps his footing.

Tenei went to throw and was caught off balance.

The wrestlers continue to seek a telling grip on the other's belt.

Ura tries for a sideways throw but was unable to get enough leverage.

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

The rikishi rest upon one another, breathing hard.

Ura spins his opponent who only just keeps his footing.

Tenei went to throw and was caught off balance.

He just about stay's upright!

What a bout!  Still no breakthrough!

Ura tries for a sideways throw but was unable to get enough leverage.

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

He seems bound to go down!

What a bout!  Still no breakthrough!

Ura from nowhere spins on his feet and twists his opponent to the floor!

He wins by Sukuinage

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

JASON'S REVIEW

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

Ura gained an advantage from a better tachiai height.

Tenei 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? Ura definitely created more momentum.

Phase 2
After the tachiai the fighters were locked together.

Ura got the better of this phase.

Ura improved his position by attempting to throw him.

Tenei wanted  to throw him.

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

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

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

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

Tenei 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.

Ura improved his position by attempting to throw him.

Ura made progress by trying  to twist and topple him.

Tenei was looking to throw him.

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

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

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

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

Tenei 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.

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

Tenei unbalanced him further by trying to throw him.

Ura tried to throw him.

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

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

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

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

Tenei maintained a small  weight advantage through the bout.

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

Phase 5
At this point the fighters were locked together.

Ura made progress by trying  to unbalance and throw him.

Ura unbalanced him further by trying to throw him.

Tenei wanted  to unbalance and throw him.

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

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

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

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

Tenei 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.

Ura made progress by trying  to unbalance and throw him.

Ura made progress by trying  to throw him.

Tenei was looking to throw him down.

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

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

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

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

Tenei 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.

Ura improved his position by attempting to unbalance and throw him.

Ura was partially successful in his attempt  to unbalance and throw him.

Tenei wanted  to throw him down.

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

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

At this point Ura 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.

Tenei 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.

Ura made progress by trying  to twist and topple him.

Ura was partially successful in his attempt  to throw him.

Tenei was looking to twist and topple him.

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

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

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

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

Tenei 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.

Ura was able to throw him.

Ura was clinical in managing to throw him down.

Tenei attempted to throw him down.

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

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

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

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

Tenei maintained a small  weight advantage through the bout.

Tenei used the rope in this phase.

The finish was Sukuinage  - beltless arm throw

Ura showed great intensity in this bout. Tenei held back a little.

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

 

Bout No. 3

Tokushoryu versus Daigonishiki

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

Tokushoryu.

He is from the

Kise heya.

He has been matched today with

Daigonishiki.

Daigonishiki

 trains at the

unplaced stable.

Daigonishiki is taller but Tokushoryuis the heavier rikishi.

The best chance for

Tokushoryu

 may be his excellent

technique.

The ceremony is over, we are about to begin…

Nokotta!

a deafening slap of flesh as they collide!

Tokushoryu

wins the tachiai battle.

Tokushoryu

sprung up

whereas

Daigonishiki

more or less stood up.

Tokushoryu

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

Daigonishiki

who tried to evade.

They immediately come together once more…

Tokushoryu

is forcing his way forward.

Daigonishiki

rocks back and tries to hold

as he tries to pull his opponent's arm.

The rikishi remain separated.

Tokushoryu muscles his oppoent onto the back foot.

Daigonishiki was trying to get to the side.

After that flail of arms the fighters remain apart.

Tokushoryu gains ground with a series of nasty slaps.

Daigonishiki was trying to get to the side.

The rikishi remain separated.

Tokushoryu gets in the more effective thrusts.

Daigonishiki was not quick enough on his feet.

The fight remains at length - will this suit the taller man?

Tokushoryu  shows brutal strength and mentality to crush an opponent face on like that! What a force out!

He wins by Yoritaoshi

Daigonishiki failed to get out of the way.

JASON'S REVIEW

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

Tokushoryu gained an advantage from a better tachiai height.

There was not much too choose between them in terms of skill.

Daigonishiki out thought his opponent and gained an advantage over Tokushoryu

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.

Tokushoryu got the better of this phase.

Tokushoryu made progress by trying  to force him back with an oshi attack.

Daigonishiki was looking to outmanoeuvre him.

This combination of actions  was good for Daigonishiki

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

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

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

Tokushoryu maintained a noticeable  weight advantage through the bout.

Neither rikishi  used the rope in this phase.

Phase 3
At this point the fighters were still apart.

Tokushoryu unbalanced him further by trying to push and shove.

Tokushoryu made progress by trying  to hold him off.

Daigonishiki wanted  to make his opponent over-reach.

This combination of actions  was good for Daigonishiki

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

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

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

Tokushoryu maintained a noticeable  weight advantage through the bout.

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

Phase 4
At this point the fighters were still apart.

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

Tokushoryu made progress by trying  to hold him off.

Daigonishiki tried to pull him forward and down.

This combination of actions  was good for Daigonishiki

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

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

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

Tokushoryu maintained a noticeable  weight advantage through the bout.

Neither rikishi  used the rope in this phase.

Phase 5
At this point the fighters were still apart.

Tokushoryu improved his position by attempting to push him back.

Tokushoryu was partially successful in his attempt  to hold him off.

Daigonishiki was looking to outmanoeuvre him.

This combination of actions  was good for Daigonishiki

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

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

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

Tokushoryu maintained a noticeable  weight advantage through the bout.

Neither rikishi  used the rope in this phase.

Phase 6
At this point the fighters were still apart.

Tokushoryu was clinical in managing to force him back with an oshi attack.

Tokushoryu was able to hold him off.

Daigonishiki was looking to outmanoeuvre him.

This combination of actions  was good for Daigonishiki

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

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

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

Tokushoryu maintained a noticeable  weight advantage through the bout.

Neither rikishi  used the rope in this phase.

It was classed as a win by Yoritaoshi  - frontal crush out

Tokushoryu fought quite carefully. Daigonishiki held back a little.

Tokushoryu didn't concentrate on preventing his opponent from acting. Daigonishiki was effective in preventing his opponent from acting.

 

Bout No. 2

Hidenoumi versus Amakaze

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

Hidenoumi.

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

His opponent today is

Amakaze.

Amakaze

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

Hidenoumi is taller than Amakaze but Amakaze is heavier.

The best chance for

Amakaze

 may be his excellent

balance.

The referee calls them to the centre of the dohyo…

Nokotta!

a gigantic collision as the rikishi meet!

Amakaze

starts best.

Amakaze

stayed very low

whereas

Hidenoumi

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

Amakaze

makes a series of effective shoves on

Hidenoumi

whose oshi-zumo was not very effective.

They immediately come together once more…

Amakaze

shows top oshi-zumo skills, forcing his opponent back.

Hidenoumi

is forced backwards and out!

Wonderful oshi-zumo by

Amakaze

who wins by

Oshidashi

JASON'S REVIEW

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

Hidenoumi gained an advantage from a better tachiai height.

Amakaze 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? Amakaze put more behind his tachiai than Hidenoumi

Phase 2
After the tachiai the fighters were still apart.

This is where Amakaze made his winning move.

Amakaze won the bout when he was able to force him back with an oshi attack.

Hidenoumi was looking to secure the belt.

This combination of actions  was good for Amakaze

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

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

Amakaze was significantly 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.

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

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

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

 

Bout No. 1

Tsurugisho versus Tochihiryu

On the east side we have

Tsurugisho.

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

On the western side of the dohyo is 

Tochihiryu.

Tochihiryu

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

Tsurugisho is taller and heavier than Tochihiryu.

The best chance for

Tsurugisho

 may be his excellent

technique.

The referee calls them to the centre of the dohyo…

Nokotta!

a deafening slap of flesh as they collide!

Tsurugisho

starts best.

Tsurugisho

stayed very low

whereas

Tochihiryu

more or less stood up.

Tsurugisho

works a right-arm inside grip on

Tochihiryu

who tried to evade.

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

The shoving is over for now and we are into full wrestling mode.

Tsurugisho whirls his opponent round like a hammer thrower before releasing him into the clay!

Tsurugisho wins by Uwatenage

Tochihiryu struggled in the grapple.

JASON'S REVIEW

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

Tochihiryu benefitted from his tachiai height relative to Tsurugisho

There was not much too choose between them in terms of skill.

Tsurugisho 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? Tsurugisho definitely created more momentum.

Phase 2
After the tachiai the fighters were locked together.

Tsurugisho got the better of this phase.

Tsurugisho unbalanced him further by trying to unbalance and throw him.

Tochihiryu attempted to improve his grip.

This combination of actions  was good for Tsurugisho

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

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

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

Tsurugisho 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.

Tsurugisho executed well to throw him.

Tsurugisho was clinical in managing to unbalance and throw him.

Tochihiryu attempted to make his opponent move.

This combination of actions  was good for Tsurugisho

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

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

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

Tsurugisho maintained a small  weight advantage through the bout.

Neither rikishi  used the rope in this phase.

It was classed as a win by Uwatenage  -  overarm throw,

Tsurugisho showed great intensity in this bout. Tochihiryu did not commit himself.

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