In this episode, we unravel one of the most infamous sagas in sumo history — the turbulent career of the 60th Yokozuna. From his rapid rise through the ranks to his historic and controversial downfall, we explore how the Japan Sumo Association’s most regretted Yokozuna promotion shook the foundations of the sport

The dust has settled, and the March Basho has delivered yet another thrilling tournament full of intense battles, unexpected upsets, and standout performances. In this episode, we break down all the key storylines—from the yusho winner’s path to victory to the wrestlers who exceeded expectations and those who fell short.

Konishiki wasn’t just a dominant force in sumo—he was a trailblazer. As the first foreign-born wrestler to reach the rank of Ozeki, he shattered expectations and paved the way for the international rikishi who followed. But his career was also marked by controversy, with speculation over whether he was denied a Yokozuna promotion due to his foreign roots.

In this episode of Basho Simplified: A Sumo Discussion, we dive into the career of Konishiki, from his rise through the ranks to his lasting impact on the sport. Was he the best wrestler to never become a Yokozuna?

The title of Yokozuna is more than just sumo’s highest rank—it is a symbol of strength, honour, and tradition. But what does it truly mean to hold this title? How is a Yokozuna chosen, and what expectations come with the rank?

In this episode of Basho Simplified: A Sumo Discussion, we explore the origins of the Yokozuna rank, the symbolism behind the sacred rope, and the immense pressure that comes with the role. Join us as we break down the history, responsibilities, and legacy of sumo’s ultimate warriors!

In this episode of Basho Simplified: A Sumo Discussion, we review all the excitement and drama from the January 2025 Basho—a tournament filled with thrilling upsets, standout performances, and pivotal moments that set the stage for a new era in sumo.

In this special deep dive episode of Basho Simplified: A Sumo Discussion, we celebrate the incredible career of Terunofuji, who recently announced his retirement. From his early days as a promising young rikishi in Mongolia to his rise to sumo’s highest rank, Terunofuji’s journey has been nothing short of extraordinary.

We’ll recount the triumphs that defined his dominance on the dohyo, the devastating injuries that nearly ended his career, and his awe-inspiring comeback that saw him reclaim the rank of Yokozuna against all odds. With a legacy marked by resilience, determination, and an unyielding spirit, Terunofuji leaves behind an indelible mark on the sport.

In this pre-tournament episode of Basho Simplified: A Sumo Discussion, we look ahead to the first Basho of 2025 and all the excitement it promises to bring. With intense rivalries brewing and top-ranked rikishi poised to make their mark, we analyze the banzuke and discuss the key storylines to watch as the tournament approaches.

The biggest question on everyone’s mind: could this Basho see a historic Yokozuna promotion—or even a double promotion?

In the second part of our deep dive into the career of Taiho, we explore the pinnacle of his legendary reign as Yokozuna and the enduring legacy he left behind. Beginning in 1968, Taiho solidified his position as one of the most dominant rikishi in sumo history, adding to his unprecedented yusho tally and setting records that would stand for decades.

Join us as we discuss his unmatched consistency, the challenges he faced both on and off the dohyo, and how injuries began to take their toll.

In the first installment of our two-part deep dive into the career of Taiho, one of sumo’s greatest Yokozuna, we explore the early years of his extraordinary journey. Born Koki Naya in 1940 on Sakhalin Island during a turbulent time in history, Taiho’s path to the dohyo was shaped by resilience, natural talent, and an unshakable determination to succeed.

Join us as we trace his rise from a promising young rikishi to the cusp of his dominant reign.