Sumo: Kirishima gunning for yokozuna promotion at Autumn meet

Ozeki Kirishima remains determined to secure promotion to yokozuna status at the upcoming Autumn Grand Sumo Tournament, maintaining his confidence and resolve despite previous setbacks. The Mongolian-born wrestler, who suffered an 11-tournament absence due to a neck injury, returned to ozeki rank in May following his promotion back in May 2025.

Kirishima's 12-3 record in both previous May and July tournaments saw him narrowly miss the top-division title. He expressed his intention to fully engage in the upcoming tournament, stating, "I ll stay confident, do what I need to do and enjoy myself out there."

Meanwhile, yokozuna Hoshoryu remains uncertain about his participation in the tournament, pending his recovery from right knee surgery. The 27-year-old, who withdrew from the past two tournaments, admitted, "I want to compete. But it won t be decided until the last minute."

Wakatakakage, ranking as maegashira No. 12, has shown signs of recovery after emergency surgery for compartment syndrome in July. However, he is expected to miss the entire tournament starting September 13. The two-time champion remains optimistic, saying, "My recovery is going well. I want to keep moving forward step by step toward my return."