Aonishiki Returns to Ozeki as Autumn Grand Sumo Rankings Announced

The Japan Sumo Association released the Autumn Grand Sumo Tournament rankings on August 31, 2021. Aonishiki, the previous tournament champion, returned to ozeki, the second highest rank, after two tournaments and was ranked second on the east side. The 15-day tournament is scheduled to begin on September 13 at Ryogoku Kokugikan in Tokyo.

Aonishiki's return to ozeki marks the first restoration since Kirishima at the Summer Grand Sumo Tournament and the 14th such case since the Showa era. Aonishiki downplayed the significance of regaining the rank, stating that his outlook had not changed and that his desire to aim higher remained. Reflecting on his championship win, Aonishiki mentioned that it was especially satisfying because he had competed in poor physical condition, and he was happy to achieve it by following his stablemaster's advice.

The victory felt different from his previous titles as he had never won a tournament under such challenging physical circumstances. Aonishiki joined the regional summer tour instead of spending the entire period in treatment, allowing him to continue receiving medical care while interacting with fans and gaining strength from their support.

His ankle and toe injuries are gradually improving, but he did not participate in any sumo bouts during the tour. He will discuss his training schedule with his stablemaster before resuming full sumo practice, aiming to be in the best condition for the September 13 opening day. Looking ahead, Aonishiki plans to develop his own style of sumo and challenge for a higher rank, despite experiencing significant changes in his career over the past year, including promotions, demotions, championships, and losing records.

He remains focused on reaching yokozuna, acknowledging that promotion will be challenging. Other notable rankings include 21-year-old Fujinokawa promoted to sekiwake on the west side, becoming the first Kyoto Prefecture wrestler in 198 years to reach the sanyaku ranks, and Hakuoho entering the sanyaku ranks for the first time at komusubi. Onosato and Hoshoryu also moved to the east and west sides, respectively.