Short one today, sorry.

MATCH OF THE DAY: Wakanosho and Fujiryoga, two large and blue-mawashi’d men, took to the clay today for what promised to be an interesting match. They traided thrust attacks that, unfortunately, left the tournament leader Wakanosho on all fours with bad concussion protocol. The poor boy got taken out in a wheelchair while Fujiryoga guiltily picked up his kensho. It’s the moments like these when you wonder why combat sports exist, but you know what, that’s okay. (I don’t like covering san’yaku bouts here, but congratulations to Hoshoryu and Hakunofuji for an excellent runner up.)

KIMARITE OF THE DAY: Aonishiki was once described as a Kimarite Farm, and that’s not the most inaccurate nickname. His shitatehineri was, as most of his wins are, a feat of strength; it’s basically a twisting underarm throw, or at least I think that’s what it means. Aonishiki is clearly struggling with that ankle but is halfway to the wins he needs; I do see him getting there but he better not aggravate that injury. Oho also seemed to be limping; the picture of health, these young men.

PINK MAWASHI DAY SIX: Ura lay down for a nap after being thrown by young Kotoeiho. This is a bad tournament and I am done. Stupid Kotoeiho.

OVERALL SUMMARY: We have Shishi as our sole tournament leader, which is kind of not what I had in mind for this basho. I’m not listing the chase group but the key figures are Takerufuji, Wakanosho (if he stays conscious), Hakunofuji, Kirishima, and Aonishiki. Shishi, followed by 9 better rikishi. This sure is fun!

I’m still for the Hoshoryusho, though Hakunofuji made that a little harder today, and also I’d be great with Kirishiyusho…ma… that doesn’t work as well. Onosato has redeemed himself and won again today; I’m happy that he seems to be doing better. The Yokos will trade opponents tomorrow while Shishi takes on Nishikifuji, who is in good shape this time around. They can’t bring him up to sanyaku yet but they can give him moderately strong Maegashira! Also, shoutout to Daieisho for seeming to be back in good health!

In Juryo, a quick rundown: Enho bad, baby Asakoryu (Asasuiryu) and Shonannoumi good, and Arashifuji and Shirokuma great.