Sumo: 33-yr-old Churanoumi becomes 1st komusubi from Okinawa Pref.

On Monday, sumo wrestler Churanoumi became the first from Okinawa Prefecture to reach the three sanyaku ranks below yokozuna, achieving the rank of komusubi. At 33 years and five months, Churanoumi is the fourth oldest wrestler to attain sanyaku status since the post-war era, surpassing the previous record holder. Before his promotion, Churanoumi participated in 63 matches, which is the highest number among wrestlers who began their professional careers after graduating from university.

Currently, the top rank in sumo is held by yokozuna Onosato, who recently won the Autumn meet in September, followed by Mongolian-born Hoshoryu, who has missed the past two tournaments. No promotions or demotions are anticipated for the three ozeki wrestlers Aonishiki, Kotozakura, and Kirishima during the 15-day Kyushu Grand Sumo Tournament, which begins on November 8 at the Fukuoka Kokusai Center.

Other wrestlers who retained their positions include Fujinokawa and Atamifuji at sekiwake, while Yoshinofuji returns to the komusubi rank after a single meet. New top-tier entrants from the makuuchi division include Arashifuji, Mongolian-born Dewanoryu, and Kyokukaiyu. Additionally, Tamawashi, the oldest returner to makuuchi in modern times at 41 years and 11 months, and Kitanowaka and Daiseizan, who both made their debuts, are among the other wrestlers in the tournament.