JSA to discuss conditions for Hoshoryu’s yokozuna promotion

The Japan Sumo Association’s judges division will hold an extraordinary meeting Sunday, before the final day’s action at the New Year Grand Sumo Tournament, to discuss Hoshoryu’s chances of earning promotion to yokozuna should he come from behind to win the championship.

According to association sources, some judges division members are saying Hoshoryu should be promoted if he wins the title, while others are doubtful because of his three losses to rank-and-file wrestlers.

Yokozuna promotion-chasing ozeki Hoshoryu (R) and Takerufuji wrestle on the 14th day of the New Year Grand Sumo Tournament on Jan. 25, 2025, at Tokyo’s Ryogoku Kokugikan arena. (Kyodo)

Kinbozan from Kazakhstan goes into the final day owning the sole lead with a 12-2 record, followed by Oho and Mongolian-born ozeki Hoshoryu at 11-3.

Hoshoryu has not won a title in eight tournaments since his July 2023 championship led to his ozeki debut two months later.

Last July, Hoshoryu missed the final three days of the Nagoya Grand Sumo Tournament. Two months later, at the Autumn Grand Sumo Tournament, he barely eked out an 8-7 winning record.

One member said, “Even if he wins the championship this time, it would be better for us to wait and see for one more tournament.”

Earlier during the tournament, sumo’s lone yokozuna, the injury-plagued Terunofuji, announced his retirement.

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Related coverage:

Sumo: Kinbozan moves closer to title as Hoshoryu, Oho stay in hunt

Sumo: Kinbozan upsets Kotozakura to keep clear of chasing pack

Sumo: Hoshoryu slaps down Kinbozan, opens up championship race

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Hoshoryu, the rising star in the world of sumo wrestling, has been making waves with his impressive performances on the dohyo. As speculation grows about his potential to reach the prestigious rank of yokozuna, fans are eager to learn more about the conditions that must be met for his promotion.

The Japan Sumo Association (JSA) has strict criteria for promoting a wrestler to the rank of yokozuna, the highest in the sport. In order to be considered for promotion, a wrestler must first reach the rank of ozeki, which Hoshoryu has yet to achieve.

Once a wrestler has reached the rank of ozeki, they must then demonstrate exceptional skill and consistency in their performances. This includes consistently defeating other top-ranked wrestlers, maintaining a high winning record, and displaying a strong sumo technique.

In addition to their on-the-dohyo performance, a wrestler’s behavior and conduct both inside and outside of the ring are also taken into consideration for a yokozuna promotion. Yokozuna are expected to embody the ideals of sumo wrestling, including humility, respect, and sportsmanship.

While Hoshoryu has shown great potential and skill in his matches, he still has some ways to go before being considered for promotion to yokozuna. As he continues to hone his craft and build upon his successes, fans will be eagerly watching to see if he can meet the rigorous standards set by the JSA for this prestigious rank.

Tags:

1. JSA
2. Hoshoryu
3. Yokozuna promotion
4. Sumo wrestling
5. Japan Sumo Association
6. Grand sumo tournaments
7. Sumo rankings
8. Yokozuna criteria
9. Rising sumo star
10. Professional sumo wrestler

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