Osunaarashi became the first wrestler from Africa to wrestle in sumo's elite makuuchi division on Sunday, but was taught a lesson on his first day of school at the 15-day Kyushu Grand Sumo Tournament.
In the day's second match at Fukuoka Kokusai Center, the 21-year-old Egyptian learned first-hand from fellow No. 15 maegashira Shotenro that superior strength alone is not enough to thrive at the top. Osunaarashi seized the initiative at the charge and backed Shotenro to the edge of the ring but could not finish him off.
Shotenro, a 31-year-old Mongolian, turned the tables and backed Osunaarashi to the edge of the straw. Although he, too, was unable to force his opponent out, the Mongolian executed an armlock throw that sent Osunaarashi toppling to the dirt for his first loss among the big boys.