The recent admissions by dozens of sumo wrestlers and stablemasters of engaging in illegal, underworld-linked gambling has sent the ancient sport's image, already dogged by scandals, to the mat.
The Japan Sumo Association, having failed repeatedly to fix its problems, is now faced with the possibility of canceling next month's Nagoya Grand Sumo Tournament.
Experts interviewed by The Japan Times were divided over whether the tournament should be held but agreed the JSA must take convincing action to regain the public's trust. The body will decide on the tournament on July 4.