Bout No. 10

Chiyotairyu versus Daiamami

On the east side we have

Chiyotairyu.

He has been instructed to fight with a   regular intensity.

He has been matched today with

Daiamami.

Daiamami

 has been told that he should show a  regular intensity.

Daiamami is taller but Chiyotairyuis the heavier rikishi.

The best chance for

Daiamami

 may be his excellent

speed.

We are ready for the tachiai…

Nokotta!

Oh what a violent tachiai!

Chiyotairyu

has the upper hand.

Chiyotairyu

more or less stood up

whereas

Daiamami

stepped forward.

Chiyotairyu

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

Daiamami

whose oshi-zumo was not very effective.

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

Both wrestlers are trying to improve their grips while preventing their opponents from doing the same.

Chiyotairyu stretches to improve his grip on the mawashi.

Daiamami couldn't move his opponent.

The rikishi rest upon one another, breathing hard.

Chiyotairyu uses great funbari - standing firm - and improves his situation despite his opponents efforts to move him.

Daiamami lost trying to muscle him out by his belt.

The crowd applaud warmly at this prolonged effort!

Chiyotairyu definitely has the better hold now.   Suceeds in working his hand right inside his opponents mawashi.

Daiamami couldn't budge his opponent.

What a bout!  Still no breakthrough!

Chiyotairyu certainly seems to have the best belt hold.

Daiamami did not have the momentum to shift his opponent.

The two giants remain locked together.

Chiyotairyu seems to be the best placed here.

Daiamami didn't have the strength to shift him

He lost his footing there!

They are leaning upon one another like rival walrus.

Chiyotairyu has the better hold now.

Daiamami will wonder if he had a good enough grip to try lifting him out.

He lost his footing there!

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

Chiyotairyu will add a new kimarite to his collection.  Ok, he was on top, but his opponent was not forced out there!  Erroneous step out!

Chiyotairyu wins by Isamiashi

Daiamami was not strong enough today.

JASON'S REVIEW

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

Daiamami benefitted from his tachiai height relative to Chiyotairyu

Chiyotairyu looks better skilled at that form of tachiai.

Daiamami out thought his opponent and gained an advantage over Chiyotairyu

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? Chiyotairyu definitely created more momentum.

Phase 2
After the tachiai the fighters were locked together.

Chiyotairyu got the better of this phase.

Chiyotairyu improved his position by attempting to lean on him.

Daiamami was looking to use his hold to carry him out.

This combination of actions  was good for Chiyotairyu

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

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

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

Chiyotairyu 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.

Chiyotairyu unbalanced him further by trying to wait for an opening.

Chiyotairyu improved his position by attempting to make his opponent move.

Daiamami tried to use his hold to carry him out.

This combination of actions  was good for Chiyotairyu

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

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

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

Chiyotairyu 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.

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

Chiyotairyu made progress by trying  to improve his grip.

Daiamami tried to carry him out.

This combination of actions  was good for Chiyotairyu

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

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

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

Chiyotairyu maintained a small  weight advantage through the bout.

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

Phase 5
At this point the fighters were locked together.

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

Chiyotairyu made progress by trying  to improve his grip.

Daiamami wanted  to carry him out.

This combination of actions  was good for Chiyotairyu

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

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

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

Chiyotairyu 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.

Chiyotairyu improved his position by attempting to lean on him.

Chiyotairyu was partially successful in his attempt  to improve his grip.

Daiamami wanted  to carry him out.

This combination of actions  was good for Chiyotairyu

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

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

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

Chiyotairyu 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.

Chiyotairyu made progress by trying  to improve his grip.

Chiyotairyu unbalanced him further by trying to wait for an opening.

Daiamami attempted to power him out.

This combination of actions  was good for Chiyotairyu

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

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

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

Chiyotairyu 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.

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

Chiyotairyu was partially successful in his attempt  to make his opponent move.

Daiamami wanted  to power him out.

This combination of actions  was good for Chiyotairyu

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

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

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

Chiyotairyu 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.

Chiyotairyu executed well to wait for an opening.

Chiyotairyu was able to improve his grip.

Daiamami attempted to power him out.

This combination of actions  was good for Chiyotairyu

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

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

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

Chiyotairyu maintained a small  weight advantage through the bout.

Daiamami used the rope in this phase.

The finish was Isamiashi  - forward step out, one of five situations in which a rikishi can win a torikumi without actually initiating a kimarite

Chiyotairyu fought with moderate intensity. The same could be said for Daiamami

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

 

Bout No. 9

Chiyomaru versus Aoiyama

Preparing to fight now is

Chiyomaru.

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

He has been matched today with

Aoiyama.

Aoiyama

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

Aoiyama is taller but Chiyomaruis the heavier rikishi.

The best chance for

Aoiyama

 may be his excellent

technique.

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!

Aoiyama

has the upper hand.

Aoiyama

stayed very low

as did his opponent.

Aoiyama

body charge forces back

Chiyomaru

was trying to grapple.

They immediately come together once more…

Aoiyama

is forcing his way forward.

Chiyomaru

rocks back and tries to hold

as he tried to push.

The thrusting tactics have dominated the start of this bout.

Chiyomaru makes progress with some hefty forearm pushes.

Aoiyama was flailing away but it didn't achieve much.

The thrusting tactics have dominated the start of this bout.

Chiyomaru slams in low and secures the best hold.

Aoiyama was a little off target today with his hands.

Now they are caught together !

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

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

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

Chiyomaru heaves his opponent to the tawara - but not quite over.

Aoiyama couldn't lift his opponent.

A feint foothold on the tawara is all that’s saving him!

The rikishi rest upon one another, breathing hard.

Aoiyama lifts his opponent but is unable to move him far.

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

He is toppling over!

The crowd applaud warmly at this prolonged effort!

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

Aoiyama couldn't shift his opponent.

A feint foothold on the tawara is all that’s saving him!

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

Aoiyama works him to the edge and then mercilessly dispatches him over the rope and into the judges!

Aoiyama wins by Oshitaoshi

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

JASON'S REVIEW

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

Chiyomaru gained an advantage from a better tachiai height.

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

Aoiyama out thought his opponent and gained an advantage over Chiyomaru

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? Chiyomaru definitely created more momentum.

Phase 2
After the tachiai the fighters were still apart.

Aoiyama got the better of this phase.

Aoiyama made progress by trying  to push him back.

Chiyomaru tried to push him back.

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

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

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

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

Chiyomaru 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.

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

Chiyomaru made progress by trying  to hold him off.

Aoiyama tried to push him back.

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

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

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

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

Chiyomaru 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.

Chiyomaru unbalanced him further by trying to secure the belt.

Chiyomaru made progress by trying  to secure the belt.

Aoiyama was looking to push and shove.

This combination of actions  was good for Aoiyama

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

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

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

Chiyomaru 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.

Aoiyama improved his position by attempting to lift him out.

Aoiyama improved his position by attempting to lift him out.

Chiyomaru attempted to throw him down.

This combination of actions  was good for Aoiyama

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

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

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

Chiyomaru 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.

Chiyomaru unbalanced him further by trying to power him out.

Chiyomaru made progress by trying  to power him out.

Aoiyama attempted to power him out.

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

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

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

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

Chiyomaru 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.

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

Aoiyama unbalanced him further by trying to carry him out.

Chiyomaru wanted  to throw him down.

This combination of actions  was good for Aoiyama

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

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

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

Chiyomaru maintained a small  weight advantage through the bout.

Aoiyama used the rope in this phase.

Phase 8
At this point the fighters were locked together.

Chiyomaru improved his position by attempting to use his hold to carry him out.

Chiyomaru improved his position by attempting to lift him out.

Aoiyama was looking to use his hold to carry him out.

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

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

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

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

Chiyomaru maintained a small  weight advantage through the bout.

Chiyomaru used the rope in this phase.

Phase 9
At this point the fighters were locked together.

Aoiyama was able to power him out.

Aoiyama won the bout when he was able to power him out.

Chiyomaru tried to twist and topple him.

This combination of actions  was good for Aoiyama

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

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

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

Chiyomaru maintained a small  weight advantage through the bout.

Aoiyama 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)

Chiyomaru showed great intensity in this bout. Aoiyama did not commit himself.

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

 

Bout No. 8

Yoshikaze versus Ikioi

Now we see

Yoshikaze.

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

Facing him is

Ikioi.

Ikioi

 has been told that he should show a  regular intensity.

Ikioi is taller and heavier than Yoshikaze.

The best chance for

Ikioi

 may be his excellent

technique.

The ceremony is over, we are about to begin…

Nokotta!

both rikishi launch forwards!

Ikioi

unbalances his opponent.

Ikioi

sprung up

whereas

Yoshikaze

stepped forward.

Ikioi

has a better belt hold than

Yoshikaze

who was trying to prevent that.

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

Ikioi

capitalises on his better hold and

upsets his opponent to secure victory!

He showed tremendous strength!

Yoshikaze

wasn't able to

get a better belt position.

Ikioi wins by

Yorikiri

JASON'S REVIEW

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

Ikioi benefitted from his tachiai height relative to Yoshikaze

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

Ikioi out thought his opponent and gained an advantage over Yoshikaze

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? Ikioi put more behind his tachiai than Yoshikaze

Phase 2
After the tachiai the fighters were locked together.

This is where Ikioi made his winning move.

Ikioi was able to throw him.

Yoshikaze was looking to make his opponent move.

This combination of actions  was good for Ikioi

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

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

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

Ikioi maintained a noticeable  weight advantage through the bout.

Neither rikishi  used the rope in this phase.

The finish was Yorikiri  - frontal force out

Yoshikaze fought quite carefully. Ikioi held back a little.

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

 

Bout No. 7

Mitakeumi versus Okinoumi

Preparing to fight now is

Mitakeumi.

He is ranked as

Sekiwake(1w)

His challenger today is

Okinoumi.

Okinoumi

 is ranked as

Maegashira(7w)

Okinoumi is taller and heavier than Mitakeumi.

The best chance for

Okinoumi

 may be his excellent

technique.

The wrestlers squat, eying one another…

Nokotta!

a huge crash fills the arena as their bodies meet!

Okinoumi

has the upper hand.

Okinoumi

stepped forward

whereas

Mitakeumi

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

Okinoumi

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

Mitakeumi

whose thrusts lacked direction.

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

The rikishi lean into each other securing their holds.

Okinoumi lifts his opponent but is unable to move him far.

Mitakeumi went to throw and was caught off balance.

He has his heel on the rope in desperation!

They are leaning upon one another like rival walrus.

Okinoumi knocks his opponent way off balance and then just pokes him out!

He wins by Okuridashi

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

JASON'S REVIEW

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

Neither fighter gained a significant advantage from their tachiai height.

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

Mitakeumi 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? Mitakeumi definitely created more momentum.

Phase 2
After the tachiai the fighters were locked together.

Okinoumi got the better of this phase.

Okinoumi unbalanced him further by trying to carry him out.

Mitakeumi tried to unbalance and throw him.

This combination of actions  was good for Okinoumi

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

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

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

Okinoumi 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.

Okinoumi unbalanced him further by trying to power him out.

Okinoumi was partially successful in his attempt  to power him out.

Mitakeumi wanted  to unbalance and throw him.

This combination of actions  was good for Okinoumi

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

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

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

Okinoumi 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.

Okinoumi executed well to lift him out.

Okinoumi won the bout when he was able to power him out.

Mitakeumi tried to twist and topple him.

This combination of actions  was good for Okinoumi

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

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

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

Okinoumi maintained a negligible weight advantage through the bout.

Mitakeumi used the rope in this phase.

A win by Okuridashi  - rear push out

Mitakeumi showed great intensity in this bout. Okinoumi held back a little.

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

 

Bout No. 6

Tochinoshin versus Daieisho

On the east side we have

Tochinoshin.

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

His challenger today is

Daieisho.

Daieisho

 has been told that he should show a  regular intensity.

Tochinoshin is taller and heavier than Daieisho.

The best chance for

Daieisho

 may be his excellent

speed.

The rikishi move into tachiai position…

Nokotta!

the rikishi collide in an awesome crash!

Tochinoshin

gets the better of the tachiai.

Tochinoshin

more or less stood up

as did his opponent.

Tochinoshin

delivered his shoulder to the throat of

Daieisho

who tried to evade.

They immediately come together once more…

Tochinoshin

gains a strong outer arm grip on the mawashi.

Daieisho

is making the best of it but

he was wanting a better belt grip.

The rikishi's bodies are pressed together searching for an advantage.

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

He wins by Sukuinage

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

JASON'S REVIEW

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

Tochinoshin gained an advantage from a better tachiai height.

Tochinoshin looks better skilled at that form of tachiai.

Daieisho out thought his opponent and gained an advantage over Tochinoshin

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? Tochinoshin definitely created more momentum.

Phase 2
After the tachiai the fighters were still apart.

Tochinoshin got the better of this phase.

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

Daieisho tried to get a belt hold.

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

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

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

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

Tochinoshin 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.

Tochinoshin won the bout when he was able to use his hold to carry him out.

Tochinoshin was able to lift him out.

Daieisho was looking to unbalance and throw him.

This combination of actions  was good for Tochinoshin

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

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

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

Tochinoshin maintained a small  weight advantage through the bout.

Neither rikishi  used the rope in this phase.

A win by Sukuinage  - beltless arm throw

Tochinoshin showed great intensity in this bout. Daieisho held back a little.

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

 

Bout No. 5

Takayasu versus Kaisei

On our left is the formidable

Takayasu.

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

Facing him is

Kaisei.

Kaisei

 has been told that he should show a  regular intensity.

Kaisei is taller and heavier than Takayasu.

The best chance for

Kaisei

 may be his excellent

technique.

The rikishi take their positions…

Nokotta!

and bang!  They come together like trains!

Kaisei

starts better.

Kaisei

stepped forward

whereas

Takayasu

stayed very low.

Kaisei

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

Takayasu

was trying to grapple.

They immediately come together once more…

Kaisei

gets and excellent over arm hold

Takayasu

is in the weaker yotsu position although

he was wanting a better belt grip.

The rikishi's bodies are pressed together.

Kaisei seems to have the better yorimi (yori skills) and make progress carrying his opponent to the rope.

Takayasu was not well enough placed to pull off a throw.

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

Kaisei is making progress in small lifts and steps.

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

He has his heel on the rope in desperation!

The rikishi rest upon one another, breathing hard.

Kaisei lifts and waddles him out on his belly!

He wins by Yorikiri

Takayasu was not well enough placed to pull off a throw.

JASON'S REVIEW

Let's go back to how Kaisei 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.

Kaisei out thought his opponent and gained an advantage over Takayasu

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? Takayasu definitely created more momentum.

Phase 2
After the tachiai the fighters were still apart.

Kaisei got the better of this phase.

Kaisei made progress by trying  to secure the belt.

Takayasu was looking to find the mawashi.

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

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

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

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

Kaisei 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.

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

Kaisei made progress by trying  to lift him out.

Takayasu was looking to throw him down.

This combination of actions  was good for Kaisei

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

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

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

Kaisei 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.

Kaisei unbalanced him further by trying to carry him out.

Kaisei made progress by trying  to carry him out.

Takayasu attempted to throw him down.

This combination of actions  was good for Kaisei

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

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

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

Kaisei 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.

Kaisei was clinical in managing to use his hold to carry him out.

Kaisei was clinical in managing to lift him out.

Takayasu tried to throw him down.

This combination of actions  was good for Kaisei

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

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

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

Kaisei maintained a small  weight advantage through the bout.

Takayasu used the rope in this phase.

The kimarite was Yorikiri  - frontal force out

Takayasu showed great intensity in this bout. Kaisei held back a little.

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

 

Bout No. 4

Goeido versus Tamawashi

On our left is the formidable

Goeido.

He is from the

Sakaigawa heya.

On the western side of the dohyo is 

Tamawashi.

Tamawashi

 trains at the

Kataonami stable.

Tamawashi is taller and heavier than Goeido.

The best chance for

Tamawashi

 may be his excellent

technique.

The ceremony is over, we are about to begin…

The rikishi smash together, their heads meeting like rams!

a huge crash fills the arena as their bodies meet!

Tamawashi

immediately gains momentum.

Tamawashi

stayed very low

as did his opponent.

Tamawashi

has a better belt hold than

Goeido

manages an inside grip.

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.

Goeido heaves his opponent to the rice  - but not quite over.

Tamawashi couldn't get enough behind the throw.

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

Goeido is not short of finishing it with that throw.

Tamawashi couldn't get on equal terms.

His hand nearly brushes the floor!

What a bout!  Still no breakthrough!

Goeido uses all his weight to force out his opponent!

He wins by Oshidashi

Tamawashi always had the worst hold.

JASON'S REVIEW

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

Goeido 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.

Tamawashi got the better of this phase.

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

Goeido attempted to power him out.

This combination of actions  was good for Goeido

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

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

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

Tamawashi 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.

Goeido unbalanced him further by trying to power him out.

Goeido improved his position by attempting to use his hold to carry him out.

Tamawashi tried to throw him down.

This combination of actions  was good for Goeido

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

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

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

Tamawashi 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.

Goeido was partially successful in his attempt  to throw him.

Goeido improved his position by attempting to throw him down.

Tamawashi attempted to improve his grip.

This combination of actions  was good for Goeido

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

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

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

Tamawashi 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.

Goeido was able to twist and topple him.

Goeido was clinical in managing to unbalance and throw him.

Tamawashi tried to make his opponent move.

This combination of actions  was good for Goeido

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

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

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

Tamawashi maintained a small  weight advantage through the bout.

Neither rikishi  used the rope in this phase.

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

Goeido fought quite carefully. The same could be said for Tamawashi

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

 

Bout No. 3

Hakuho versus Onosho

On our left is the formidable

Hakuho.

He is ranked as

Yokozuna(1e)

On the western side of the dohyo is 

Onosho.

Onosho

 is ranked as

Maegashira(3e)

Hakuho is taller and heavier than Onosho.

The best chance for

Onosho

 may be his excellent

balance.

The wrestlers squat, eying one another…

Nokotta!

a gigantic collision as the rikishi meet!

Hakuho

starts better.

Hakuho

sprung up

whereas

Onosho

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

Hakuho

has a favourable hold on the mawashi of

Onosho

whose oshi-zumo was not very effective.

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

Now we will see who has the superior yotsu-sumo skills.

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

Onosho had a hold but couldn't move him.

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

Hakuho mercilessly slaps his opponent causing him to lose balance, stagger back and out of the dohyo!

He wins by Tsukidashi

Onosho lost trying to muscle him out by his belt.

JASON'S REVIEW

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

Onosho benefitted from his tachiai height relative to Hakuho

Hakuho looks better skilled at that form of tachiai.

Onosho out thought his opponent and gained an advantage over Hakuho

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.

Hakuho got the better of this phase.

Hakuho made progress by trying  to unbalance and throw him.

Onosho tried to lift him out.

This combination of actions  was good for Onosho

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

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

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

Hakuho 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.

Hakuho was partially successful in his attempt  to throw him.

Hakuho improved his position by attempting to throw him.

Onosho attempted to use his hold to carry him out.

This combination of actions  was good for Onosho

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

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

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

Hakuho 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.

Hakuho was clinical in managing to twist and topple him.

Hakuho was clinical in managing to throw him down.

Onosho wanted  to lift him out.

This combination of actions  was good for Onosho

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

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

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

Hakuho maintained a small  weight advantage through the bout.

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

The finish was Tsukidashi  - frontal thrust out

Hakuho fought quite carefully. Onosho was totally committed to his actions.

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

 

Bout No. 2

Kisenosato versus Hokutofuji

Now we see

Kisenosato.

He is from the

Tagonoura heya.

He has been matched today with

Hokutofuji.

Hokutofuji

 trains at the

Honekawa stable.

Kisenosato is taller and heavier than Hokutofuji.

The best chance for

Hokutofuji

 may be his excellent

speed.

The rikishi take their positions…

Nokotta!

a deafening slap of flesh as they collide!

Hokutofuji

gets the better of the tachiai.

Hokutofuji

more or less stood up

whereas

Kisenosato

stayed very low.

Hokutofuji

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

Kisenosato

whose thrusts lacked direction.

They immediately come together once more…

Hokutofuji

pulls his opponent off balance.

Kisenosato

over committed trying to

get into position.

For a moment there is space between the fighters…

Hokutofuji is using a slap and  move policy to good effect.

Kisenosato looked like a deer in headlights there!

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

Kisenosato somehow gets around his opponent to push and unbalance him (mawari-komi).

Hokutofuji took too long to decide what to do.

Both rikishi come forward again.

Kisenosato has the best position with a shoulder and a nudge on his opponent.

Hokutofuji failed to get out of the way.

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

Kisenosato smartly pulls his opponent off balance.

Hokutofuji was too slow.

For a moment there is space between the fighters…

Kisenosato wins with a well put together cameo of getting to the mawashi, turning to uplift his opponent and throwing him down!

He wins by Shitatenage

Hokutofuji simply wasn't fast enough at the end.

JASON'S REVIEW

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

Hokutofuji benefitted from his tachiai height relative to Kisenosato

Kisenosato looks better skilled at that form of tachiai.

Hokutofuji out thought his opponent and gained an advantage over Kisenosato

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? Kisenosato definitely created more momentum.

Phase 2
After the tachiai the fighters were still apart.

Hokutofuji got the better of this phase.

Hokutofuji was partially successful in his attempt  to outmanoeuvre him.

Kisenosato wanted  to outmanoeuvre him.

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

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

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

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

Kisenosato 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.

Hokutofuji was partially successful in his attempt  to make his opponent over-reach.

Hokutofuji improved his position by attempting to outmanoeuvre him.

Kisenosato tried to back off and pull.

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

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

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

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

Kisenosato 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.

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

Kisenosato improved his position by attempting to outmanoeuvre him.

Hokutofuji was looking to make his opponent over-reach.

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

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

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

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

Kisenosato 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.

Kisenosato was partially successful in his attempt  to outmanoeuvre him.

Kisenosato was partially successful in his attempt  to outmanoeuvre him.

Hokutofuji attempted to pull him forward and down.

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

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

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

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

Kisenosato maintained a small  weight advantage through the bout.

Neither rikishi  used the rope in this phase.

Phase 6
At this point the fighters were still apart.

Kisenosato was partially successful in his attempt  to make his opponent over-reach.

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

Hokutofuji attempted to back off and pull.

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

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

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

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

Kisenosato maintained a small  weight advantage through the bout.

Neither rikishi  used the rope in this phase.

Phase 7
At this point the fighters were still apart.

Kisenosato was able to outmanoeuvre him.

Kisenosato was able to make his opponent over-reach.

Hokutofuji was looking to back off and pull.

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

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

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

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

Kisenosato maintained a small  weight advantage through the bout.

Neither rikishi  used the rope in this phase.

The finish was Shitatenage  - underarm throw

Kisenosato fought with moderate intensity. Hokutofuji was totally committed to his actions.

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

 

Bout No. 1

Kakuryu versus Kotoshogiku

Slapping his mawashi like a drum is

Kakuryu.

He is ranked as

Yokozuna(2e)

On the western side of the dohyo is 

Kotoshogiku.

Kotoshogiku

 is ranked as

Komusubi(1e)

Kakuryu is taller than Kotoshogiku but Kotoshogiku is heavier.

The best chance for

Kotoshogiku

 may be his excellent

technique.

The rikishi move into tachiai position…

Nokotta!

a huge crash fills the arena as their bodies meet!

Kotoshogiku

has the upper hand.

Kotoshogiku

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

whereas

Kakuryu

stayed very low.

Kotoshogiku

body charge forces back

Kakuryu

attempted a belt hold.

They immediately come together once more…

Kakuryu

establishes the better hold.

Kotoshogiku

has been brought into an unfavourable grapple - 

he was trying to avoid this contact.

They come together, each clasping for some sort of hold.

Kakuryu fails with the throw but is still in change.

Kotoshogiku was trying to trip his opponent.

He just does enough to stay up.

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

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

A win by Yorikiri

Kotoshogiku was trying to trip his opponent.

JASON'S REVIEW

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

Kotoshogiku benefitted from his tachiai height relative to Kakuryu

Kakuryu looks better skilled at that form of tachiai.

Kotoshogiku out thought his opponent and gained an advantage over Kakuryu

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.

Kakuryu got the better of this phase.

Kakuryu made progress by trying  to get a belt hold.

Kotoshogiku wanted  to make his opponent over-reach.

This combination of actions  was good for Kakuryu

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

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

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

Kotoshogiku 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.

Kakuryu made progress by trying  to throw him down.

Kakuryu improved his position by attempting to throw him.

Kotoshogiku tried to unbalance and throw him.

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

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

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

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

Kotoshogiku 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.

Kakuryu won the bout when he was able to throw him down.

Kakuryu was able to unbalance and throw him.

Kotoshogiku was looking to throw him.

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

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

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

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

Kotoshogiku maintained a small  weight advantage through the bout.

Kotoshogiku used the rope in this phase.

The kimarite was Yorikiri  - frontal force out

Kakuryu showed great intensity in this bout. The same could be said for Kotoshogiku

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