Injury-plagued yokozuna Kisenosato resumed full-fledged practice bouts Monday, performing 13 matches with Yago, who was promoted to the second-highest juryo division for the Autumn Grand Sumo Tournament starting Sunday.
"I prepared myself physically before entering the dohyo ring," the 31-year-old yokozuna said after a training session at the Nishonoseki stable in Chiba Prefecture. "I have a long way to go. I can't say I'm in good condition or bad condition."
Kisenosato, who missed part of the previous two meets in May and July due to injuries to his upper left arm, chest and left ankle, won all his bouts against Yago but did not show some of his trademark moves.