Reviewing the 2023 Autumn Grand Sumo Tournament, it’s hard to escape a feeling of disappointment with how proceedings went over the course of two weeks.
Only two of 42 top-division wrestlers managing to reach 11 wins; the failure of a newly promoted ozeki duo to build on recent promise; and a late collapse that snatched away the title hopes of 21-year-old Atamifuji — the tournament’s one shining light — left fans feeling frustrated.
Exasperation became ire when ozeki Takakeisho used a henka sidestep and pulldown to defeat Atamifuji in the championship-deciding playoff.