April 1st 2010 saw the passing of a man whose voice
will be forever etched in the memory of Showa sumo fans.
The 28th Kimura Shonosuke, who died at the age of 81,
occupied sumo’s highest refereeing position for 18 basho
between 1991 and 1993, and oversaw the most radical
transformation in sumo history from the closest of quarters. Read more...
The atmosphere in the Kokugikan as the two goliaths took to the
dohyo was incredible, at times spine-tingling, as Kaio prepared
for his 1000th career win. In recent memory, only the cacophony
surrounding the Asashoryu-Hakuho match in January 2008 contained
anywhere near such levels of excitement. Read more...
Most yokozuna conjure up an image of a goliath, with a ferocious
temperament and imposing physique. The 62nd Yokozuna Onokuni Yasushi
was indeed such a figure, being the only Japanese born yokozuna ever
to top 210 kilogram during his reign. Even now, 20 years after his
retirement, he still reminds many of an elephant, albeit an unusually good natured one. Read more...
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Asanowaka
was a classic looking figure in sumo, and briefly carried the sword
during Akebono's dohyo-iri. He was incredibly funny and would say some
things other rikishi wouldn't dare say. He was, of course, famous for
his froglike shikiri for which the Kyokai kept reprimanding him, the
crowd loved it! This ink jet print, ed. 100, 9.5 x 11 inches is signed
and numbered by the artist, available for $550. from the studio. Please
contact artist@aloha.net