Sumo | INSIDE SUMO May 17, 2023

Opening days of Summer Basho offer some insight but few conclusions

Terunofuji and Asanoyama may not meet with the title at stake on Day 15, but the two veterans are clearly standouts so far at Ryogoku Kokugikan.

Sumo / Basho Reports May 12, 2023

Terunofuji set for return to dominance at Summer Basho if knee holds up

The 31-year-old has missed the entirety of the last three tournaments after a flare-up of chronic knee issues forced him to withdraw midway through the September meet.

Sumo | INSIDE SUMO May 10, 2023

Return of yokozuna council's open training offers good and bad

As with any pre-tournament training session, what didn’t happen was more informative than what did.

Sumo | INSIDE SUMO May 3, 2023

Media returns to Kokugikan as sumo resumes in-person activities

Over the past few years, virtually all press club interviews with rikishi have taken place online, limiting fans' insights into their favorite wrestlers.

Sumo | INSIDE SUMO Apr 26, 2023

New generation could rekindle ozeki rank's missing spark

With a history of engaging and charismatic wrestlers, sumo's second-highest rank often draws a greater response from fans than the stoicism demanded from yokozuna.

Sumo | INSIDE SUMO Apr 19, 2023

When it comes to sumo in popular media, style reigns over substance

Despite its rich pageantry and 2,000-year history, the sport is still waiting for an authentic Hollywood portrayal that can catch on with the general public.

Sumo | INSIDE SUMO Apr 12, 2023

Should Terunofuji be considered an all-time great?

With the yokozuna's status for next month's Summer Basho still pending, it’s worth pondering how sumo history would judge him were he to retire without achieving further glory.

Sumo | INSIDE SUMO Apr 5, 2023

Sumo's declining recruitment shows need for fresh ideas

As Japanese children gravitate toward sumo and rugby, the Japan Sumo Association may need to take a more active role in overseeing the sport's grassroots levels.

Sumo | INSIDE SUMO Mar 29, 2023

Kiribayama’s victory raises possibility of historic double promotion

The Spring Basho winner is the man best positioned to take advantage of what's likely to be a liberal promotion atmosphere for the foreseeable future.

Sumo | INSIDE SUMO Mar 23, 2023

Sumo's second division takes center stage in Osaka

Jūryō outshines a top division lacking stars and excitement.