Ozeki Asanoyama’s punishment for breaching the Japan Sumo Association's COVID-19 protocols is expected to be handed down within the next few days.
Although a final ruling is yet to be confirmed, sources close to JSA decision-makers say the Takasago stable man appears set to escape with a suspension rather than being forced to retire.
If Asanoyama somehow manages to avoid being kicked out of the sport after denying — then later admitting — that he had dined out at a hostess bar, it would be a further sign of changing attitudes within sumo.