Second-tier juryo division wrestler Takanofuji, who is facing disciplinary action for hitting a lower-ranked wrestler in the forehead, said Friday after issuing an apology that he is not ready to end his career.
"This penalty is too heavy and I can't accept it," said Takanofuji, who was urged by the Japan Sumo Association in a board meeting on Thursday to voluntarily retire following his second assault case. His stablemaster Chiganoura has also asked him to voluntarily retire but he has refused.
"All I have is sumo. I want to learn from my mistakes, get back in the ring and dedicate my life to sumo," he said.