The Japan Sumo Association on Thursday recommended that sumo elder Takanohana be removed from his post as director, asking that he be demoted over his role in the assault scandal that led to the retirement of grand champion Harumafuji.
A decision on Takanohana's punishment was postponed once again the same day, despite the JSA's attempts to shake off the scandal that has seen the image of the ancient sport again tarnished, and is expected to be finalized after the Jan. 4 board of councilors meeting.
The JSA plans to take punitive action over Takanohana's failure to promptly report the incident, in which Takanoiwa — a wrestler from his stable— was beaten by fellow Mongolian Harumafuji during a regional tour in late October.