The art of watching sumo – The November 2024 Tournament

The Kyushu 2024 sumo tournament will take place in Fukuoka from Sunday 10
November to Sunday 24 November.

The last tournament of the year is underway, accompanied by changes likely to transform
the face of sumo for years to come.
It would be impossible to begin this article without mentioning the prodigy Onosato.
Despite his hair being still too short for the traditional bun, the September champion was
propelled to the rank of ôzeki in just nine tournaments, a historic record which is fueling
hopes of a rapid rise to the prestigious rank of Yokozuna. Despite his young age, Onosato
demonstrates impressive maturity, both technically and mentally. His accession to ôzeki
fills the void left by Takakeisho’s early retirement.

In November, two Ukrainians will make their grand entrance: Shishi as maegashira and
Aonishiki as jūryō. With his imposing stature of 1.91 m at 160 kg, Shishi will become, at
almost 28 years old, the first rikishi from his country to reach this rank. His young
compatriot Aonishiki, at just 20, is already impressing with 38 victories in 42 bouts. A
promising talent, he seems destined for an even brighter future than his elder compatriot.

Takerufuji, former winner of the Osaka tournament, is back in the spotlight after an injury
that saw him drop down the banzuke rankings. His return is eagerly awaited, and he will
undoubtedly be one of the competitors to watch. Now recovered, he’s looking to regain his
place among the elite and demonstrate that his technique and commitment are still intact.
In winning five of the eleven titles he has competed in, Takerufuji has proved that he is a
talent to be reckoned with in the years to come.

A fitting way to round off a year already rich in highlights, but one which will doubtless hold
many more surprises. Visit the NHK WORLD-JAPAN website, which will be broadcasting
edited highlights until November 24.

Yohann Valdenaire
Illustration: POSTICS