Kotoshogiku (top), throws Goeido down in the ring to become the first Japanese-born wrestler to win a championship in 10 years
Kotoshogiku won the New Year Grand Sumo Tournament yesterday to become the first Japanese-born wrestler to win a championship in 10 years.
Kotoshogiku, whose real name is Kazuhiro Kikutsugi, beat fellow ozeki Goeido to improve to 14-1 and secure the Emperor’s Cup on the last day of the 15-day tournament.
Sumo, Japan’s national sport, has been dominated by Mongolians over the past decade. The last Japanese-born wrestler to win a tournamnent was Tochiazuma who won the New Year tourney in 2006.
The sport hasn’t had a Japanese grand champion since Takanohana retired in 2003.
Kotoshogiku beat current grand champions Hakuho, Harumafuji and Kakuryu en route to winning the title. Mongolian Hakuho finished with a record of 12-3 after losing to compatriot Harumafuji. AP
No Comments