Injury-prone lone yokozuna Terunofuji said Monday he plans to return to the raised ring at the Summer Grand Sumo Tournament beginning May 14.
"Of course, I plan to take part," Terunofuji said in Tokyo, adding that his physical condition is gradually getting better.
The seven-time champion in the top-tier makuuchi division missed all or part of the last four tournaments. He has resumed match training since Saturday during the ancient sport's regional tour.
In addition to recovering from surgery on both knees last October, Terunofuji has been dealing with diabetes.
"I'm training carefully," the 31-year-old said. "I'll take my time to get back to where I used to be."