Kotoshu winning his first Yusho in May
Today, is the start of the Nagoya basho and with it comes high hopes for my favorite Ozeki, and perhaps, after this tournament, the first European yokozuna, Kotoōshū. I’ve been following him since right after he joined the ranks of the 幕内 (makuuchi) or highest division of sumo. That means its been about 4 years now and its been quite a ride. A couple injuries have hurt his chances in previous tournaments, but Koto is fresh off his first 優勝 (yusho) or tournament victory. That was a very big first for the sumo world, because it was the first time a European born 力士(rikishi/sumo wrestler) had won a tournament. He needs to win this tournament in Nagoya to give him a serious chance at promotion to sumo’s top spot. I will be watching the live feed from Nagoya and of course I’ll be screaming 「琴欧州、頑張れ！」 (Do your best, Kotoōshū!)
[Thanks to Morio for his excellent picture of Kotoōshū receiving the Emperor's cup!]
UPDATE: Unfortunately, Koto dropped his first bout (via oshidashi) to Aminishiki, who he has a losing streak against. Seeing as its still only the first day it is ok. 琴欧州、頑張ってください！
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