Basho Simplified: A Sumo Discussion

In this episode of "Basho Simplified: A Sumo Discussion," we dive into our predictions for the November basho! With fresh rivalries brewing and exciting rikishi set to step into the ring, we’ll break down the wrestlers to watch, our expectations for top contenders, and who might surprise us in this month’s tournament.

Join us as we analyze the current rankings, discuss how recent injuries and training might impact each rikishi’s performance, and make our calls on who has the best shot at the yusho. We’ll also share our picks for dark horses, speculate on any potential shake-ups in the sanyaku ranks, and set a friendly wager on our predictions.

In Episode 16 of "Basho Simplified: A Sumo Discussion," we delve into the remarkable career of Kisenosato, a rikishi whose journey to the top captured the hearts of sumo fans across Japan and beyond. From his early days as a promising up-and-comer to his historic promotion as the first Japanese-born Yokozuna in nearly two decades, Kisenosato’s story is one of resilience, loyalty, and immense national pride.

We’ll explore his battles with rivals, his rise through the ranks, and the years of near-misses and hard-won victories that defined his career. Join us as we recount his dramatic yusho wins, the intense expectations he carried as Yokozuna, and his unforgettable rivalry with the legendary Hakuho. We’ll also examine the challenges and injuries that ultimately shaped the twilight of his career and his lasting impact on the sport.

In this special "Sumo 101" episode of "Basho Simplified: A Sumo Discussion," we dive into the fascinating world of the gyoji, the referees of sumo who play a vital role in the ring. More than just officials, gyoji are guardians of tradition, steeped in ceremonial duties and a history as old as sumo itself.

In Episode 14 of "Basho Simplified: A Sumo Discussion," we take a deep dive into the incredible career of Akebono, the first foreign-born rikishi to achieve the rank of Yokozuna. Join us as we explore the journey of this Hawaiian-born powerhouse, from his early struggles in Japan to his historic rise to the top of the sumo world.

We’ll discuss Akebono’s unique style, his most iconic matches, and the fierce rivalries that defined his career. Beyond the dohyo, we’ll also delve into Akebono's surprising post-sumo career, which saw him transition into unexpected fields such as professional wrestling and MMA. His decision to pursue new challenges after retiring from sumo added another layer to his already fascinating legacy.

In Episode 13 of "Basho Simplified: A Sumo Discussion," we break down the thrilling conclusion of the September basho! Join us as we recap the final days of the tournament, spotlighting the most memorable moments, championship-deciding matches, and rikishi who left their mark.

We’ll dive into the standout performances, from unexpected dark horses to the top contenders, and analyse how the basho’s outcomes could impact the sumo landscape going forward. Did our predictions pan out, and who emerged victorious in the race for the yusho?

In this episode of "Basho Simplified: A Sumo Discussion," we bring you a mid-tournament catch-up on the September Basho! With the action in full swing, we’ll recap the most exciting matches, unexpected upsets, and standout performances that have already defined the first half of the basho.

In Part 2 of our deep dive into the legendary career of Hakuho, we pick up in 2010, right as the sumo world faced one of its biggest scandals. Despite the turmoil surrounding the sport, Hakuho emerged stronger than ever, solidifying his reign as the most dominant Yokozuna in history.

Join us as we discuss Hakuho’s unparalleled run throughout the 2010s—breaking records, setting new standards, and becoming the undisputed Greatest of All Time. We’ll explore his triumphs, the challenges he faced, and how he continually adapted his style to remain untouchable in the ring. We’ll also delve into his role as a leader, mentor, and ambassador for sumo, even as he dealt with injuries and the shifting landscape of the sport.

In the first part of our deep dive into the career of sumo legend Hakuho, we explore the meteoric rise of a rikishi who would come to redefine the sport. Join us as we trace Hakuho’s journey from his humble beginnings in Mongolia to his early days in the sumo stables of Japan, where his extraordinary talent quickly became undeniable.

We’ll cover his rapid ascent through the ranks, the fierce rivalries that shaped his early career, and the moments that solidified his status as a Yokozuna. By 2010, Hakuho was not just a champion, but a dominant force, rewriting records and captivating fans around the world.

However, just as he was reaching the pinnacle of his career, a storm was brewing in the sumo world—one that would challenge everything he had achieved. Tune in to this first instalment as we set the stage for the dramatic events that would follow in Part 2.

In Episode 9 of "Basho Simplified: A Sumo Discussion," we’re excited to bring you our first deep dive, focusing on the extraordinary career of one of sumo’s most controversial and dominant figures, Yokozuna Asashoryu. Join us as we explore the life, legacy, and impact of the Mongolian-born rikishi who shook up the sumo world.

From his rapid ascent through the ranks to becoming the first Mongolian Yokozuna, fierce rivalries, and the unique blend of skill, power, and charisma that made him a fan favourite and a formidable force in the ring. We’ll also discuss the controversies that marked his career, examining how they shaped his legacy in the sumo community.