I am honestly meh on the end of Daeisho's Ozeki run. It would be nice if he got it but if it was in the cards for him he would've gotten it awhile ago. He is a Sanyaku gatekeeper, which is a role he is solid at, but that is all that he will be.
He's just never been able to get over that hump, eh? I think his style is just too predictable to get past the true elite of the sport. They are either too big/strong to be pushed back or too clever and technical to let him try.
I’m primarily a Ura and Hoshoryu man as I love the rikishi who offer variety, and especially one who can express enjoyment within all the restrictions.
Having said that, I also go for the stoicism of Takanosho, the thrusts of the Welsh great Dai Eisho, the eternal heroic pursuit of a Yusho by Takayasu, the iron constitution of Tamawashi, and a whole many more. I appreciate the many ways a simple sport can be expertly done.
Shodai, Mitakeumi and Nishikigi have had some pretty bad tournaments over the last five years. Shodai and Mitakeumi going 4-11 at the same tournament, as ozeki (!), in 2022 was especially bad. Shodai got off to a 1-9 start in that one.
Dude, thank you for this awesome analysis. I really love it
You're so welcome! Glad you're enjoying it. :)
I am honestly meh on the end of Daeisho's Ozeki run. It would be nice if he got it but if it was in the cards for him he would've gotten it awhile ago. He is a Sanyaku gatekeeper, which is a role he is solid at, but that is all that he will be.
He's just never been able to get over that hump, eh? I think his style is just too predictable to get past the true elite of the sport. They are either too big/strong to be pushed back or too clever and technical to let him try.
Loving the analysis Tim - thank you for the details that help me appreciate the technicalities.
Hey Danny, welcome in. I'm glad you're digging the Stomp! Who are you cheering for this basho?
I’m primarily a Ura and Hoshoryu man as I love the rikishi who offer variety, and especially one who can express enjoyment within all the restrictions.
Having said that, I also go for the stoicism of Takanosho, the thrusts of the Welsh great Dai Eisho, the eternal heroic pursuit of a Yusho by Takayasu, the iron constitution of Tamawashi, and a whole many more. I appreciate the many ways a simple sport can be expertly done.
I'm with you on appreciating those who are able to show us how they feel, through the restrictions. Atamifuji is a fave for that reason.
When was the last time a rikishi of Midorifuji’s popularity slumped through an entire tourney?
Shodai, Mitakeumi and Nishikigi have had some pretty bad tournaments over the last five years. Shodai and Mitakeumi going 4-11 at the same tournament, as ozeki (!), in 2022 was especially bad. Shodai got off to a 1-9 start in that one.
Aonishiki vs Wakatakakage is very interesting. Can't wait to see how that plays out.