I've watched some legendary sports moments live. Hakuho winning this gave me a similar feeling. He isn't just the greatest sumo wrestler ever. He is one of the greatest athletes ever.
I stopped cheering for sportsball long ago. I hadn’t jumped up cheering like I did for Hakuho vs Teru since I was in Tokyo watching 3 years ago watching Tochinoshin win back Ozeki and seeing the purple cushions fly.
@@A-Negative i was exactly the same , i was on my feet punching the air..It made up for my disappointment in federer losing wimbledon final two years ago after having two match points :)
You can go into any sports bar and strike up a conversation about who is the greatest boxer of all time. People will gladly engage the topic. Some passionately, some statistically, some without rhyme or reason (personally, my GOAT boxer is Marvin Hagler but only because that's the correct answer (lols)). What you will definitely find is that there is no consensus. Of course with hoops there is Michael Jordan, and I defy you to find anyone in Chicago who wouldn't agree that he's the GOAT, but then go to Boston and Larry Bird may get more votes, and now LeBron's accomplishments have justifiably inserted him into the talk. My own favorite player is Magic Johnson, and I think a solid case could be made for Wilt Chamberlain and a veritable plethora of other greats. Wayne Gretzky was a god in the NHL, but even in his own time you had Mario Lemieux posting more goals (and more points?) in a single season, and Mark Messier winning far more Stanley Cups, and old timers who were all like "screw da stats, it's Gordie Howe fer sure eh!" Who's better, Bjorn Borg or Roger Federer? The point is, the GOAT in a sport is largely a personal thing and relates as much to the fan as it does to the athlete. ..................................................................................................................... Sumo might be the oldest sport in the world; no consensus on this question either (I read a solid sounding case that it's actually MMA, which was called "παγκράτιο" (Pankration) in the ancient Western world, and substantially predates early Greek wrestling - would be at least slightly ironic if true, considering modern MMA is one of the youngest sports in the world, so then we could add 'uninterrupted' to to our criteria, eliminate MMA from the discussion altogether and argue some more...), and the point of this ramble isn't to get to the bottom of the question of what's the oldest sport, but to point out that within the VERY OLD sport of Sumo, there is an indisputable GOAT, and his name is Hakuho Sho. It's really not even close with his 45th basho banked, and no doubt he is getting very old for Sumo, and is definitely approaching the end of his career, but anyone thinking the guy had nothing left in the tank need simply take note that he didn't merely pick up his 45th yusho, he just pulled off another zensho! (sorry about the WOT...)
Any 15-0 basho is so impressive - but this one - 15 days, 15 different opponents, 15 chances to slip up, 15 chances to just have some bad luck, 15 giant men slamming into you, all the while you’re not at 100%, but using your vast experience and guile, and on the final day beating decisively The New Man who will be the next Yokozuna - this 15-0 run was just inspired and heroic. This was Legendary even for The Legendary Hakuho.
Hakuho’s recovery and return to dominance highlights something that is very wrong in sumo. Sumo officials look down on taking time off for injuries. They hold the belief that if you take a lot of time off to recover from an injury, then your sumo prowess will reduce. Most wrestlers get demoted when they miss several tournaments to highlight this idea, but Hakuho as a Yokozuna can’t be demoted. His return to being the super dominant and winning directly proves that sentiment wrong. And they hate it.
Whoa - very insightful comment Admiral! I've been a Sumo fan for 9 years now, and it's the callousness towards injury that I find to be the worst thing about the sport, starting with the height of dohyo top and the hard brutality of the area below, the lack of ringside medical preparedness (how many games does the NFL have every Sunday for 5 months, with ambulances and doctors standing by?), and the policy of counting medical leave as losses, thereby preventing rikishi from getting the surgeries they need and completing rehab before returning. IMHO, these policies actually ensure the sport is NOT performed at the highest level it could be.
@@chonqmonk Absolutely. The one that stings me the most is Tochinoshin. He was the rikishi that got me into sumo, and then to see him as Ozeki and dominating was amazing. Then he injured his knee, but if he stops wrestling then he gets demoted, so he had to deal with it. I'm not saying he would have been a Yokozuna, but I am saying that because of this sentiment towards injury, it guaranteed he would never get a chance.
@@Altraice same, I used to root for him every match. Well I still do but now its with the expectation of a loss. I miss watching him be able to just lift rikishi up and walk them out. Now I've come to expect him to get pushed out almost immediately. Despite all his efforts he desperately needs time to recover or he's going to keep losing and hurt himself more possibly to the point of forced retirement.
Argh they address him like a child. "His coach must teach him!" The greatest sumo wrestler of all time, at 36. Unbelievable. Hakuho's every move displays more heroism, ingenuity, self possession, and grit than any of his critics could even dream of, much less recognize. The best and worst of Japanese culture on display, every tournament.
Here in the west we love great comeback stories. This basho we had two standing before us. Through the knee pain both fought. Through the xenophobia both endured. And the final outcome was victory for both. Hakaho wins his 45th title and oldest rikishi to go 15-0. Terinofugi ascends to Yokozuna from the lowest rank ever. Twice. Both are winners. Both are inspirational heroes to us all. Hand pink hankies to the JSA members. Payback is a bitch, ain't it.
I haven't been following Sumo for all that long, but not a single other wrestler demonstrates the breadth of technique and style that Hakuho displays. For me, day 5 was the best bout - the way he wriggled and shifted his body to break the belt grip was simply spectacular.
It's all in the hips man... As odd as this may be, it was the day before when Takanosho had'm beaten dead to rights and he still found a way to win that impressed me the most. To me, that exact ability, to regularly win bouts he has no business winning, is what always made him different than the other 3 yokozunae that have existed since I started watching the sport.
TERUNOFUJI noticeably makes a face and ROLLS HIS EYES at HAKUHO's far-back tachai vs SHODAI. WOW!!! Never noticed that before. Great footage Chris! 9:21
Right!?!?! Because they lack the ability to set up rules that lead to the product that they want to see?!?! Is that it? The JSA admitting that they are incompetent a/f? Just as a fan, I know what 'The They' wanna see, and could draw up rule changes that make it so. I cannot imagine why they can't do the same. If I were Hakuho, back a few years ago when they pressured him into stopping his patented 'slap into the forearm shiver tachaii,' I would have told them to go fuck themselves, and if they change the rules so that it isn't legal, then I'll stop, but not a moment sooner.
@@chonqmonk This basho proved that the jsa and yokozuna council are completely incompetent. They are just salty at this point because they couldn't get him to retire. Earlier in the year, you would always hear them say how he needs to perform at this next basho or its retirement. Well when he proceeds to show up and demolish everybody, you don't exactly get to complain about him doing exactly what you asked him to do. Changing the rules and saying, "Oh BuT yOu DidN't WrEsTlE lIkE a YoKoZuNa" is just a sad attempt to save face because they got completely embarrassed. The yokozuna council always moves the goalposts on him because at this point hes basically untouchable. Winning this tounament 15-0 was the biggest fuck you to the JSA and I'm all for it.
What is the way of yokuzuna inside jsa's head? Just brute force every rikishii out of the ring? It's just like saying "as a goat in boxing you can't dogde". Fuck this shit lol. If I can win in a easy way why shouldn't I
I'm the furthest thing from a hakuho fan. I genuinely enjoy seeing him lose and look forward to a post hakuho world where basho are more wide open. But god damn it I was cheering for him by the end of this. That Hak v Teru fight was insane. I sincerely believe it's gonna go down as one of his top 5 fights of his career.
It was a disgrace to see some people out there not appreciating Hakuho's win including the jealous masters in the final who cares my Man had the last Laugh "Hakuho The Legend " my Yokozuna
The fist pump upon victory on Day 15 was undignified, but it made him human, and was actually a tribute of sorts to Terunofuji, evincing as it did the raw emotion of elation at being able to triumph against such an opponent. But the Japanese cultural traditions of maintaining always the utmost reserve frown upon such displays, and this, in their minds, further serves to emphasize Hakuho's "foreigness".
I agree with you, it is a testimony to Terunofuji's strength as an opponent, and also shows Hakuho's vulnerability - he did hear all the sniping, after all?
Stoicism, to the Japanese, is the utmost sign of self control in all aspects of Japanese life, not just Sumo. Hakuho has been 14 years a Yokozuna. He has been announced as “foreign born” every single time he fought in GS. Knowing you will never be fully accepted, why try to be anything but yourself? Where one sees “vulnerability” I see strength and courage; courage to be true to yourself in the face of such constant adversity; the strength to persevere in an environment that doesn’t want you, but needs you knowing the popularity of this ancient sport you’re in depends on having you. Being that old dominant for so so long, with the entire media and the elders all having written you off, doing their very best to see you pushed out of (completely and absolutely) the sport you love so much that you renounced your own native land’s citizenship to become a Japanese citizen and further your sumo career as a coach; the JSA trying to deny you what you deserve by their own standards in elder stock.....and still have the balls to express yourself in your art....as an artist myself it is inspiring. Each rikishi sees what they do as art, and their style of art is what’s on display. I love everything Hakuho paints❤️
His fighting spirit may indeed be strong, but how long can a man with a body like that continue to drive on against sumo elders who clearly want him gone? Only a true legend could sustain that, and Hakuho surely must be now.
Nonsense. "Body like that" his body is good, he just proved it. "Elders want him gone" you don't know that and it isn't in evidence. The guy was a legend five years ago, your analysis is lousy.
@@johnsmith1474 In your opinion, my analysis is faulty. I believe otherwise. Good to know you see differently than I. But I’ll stick to what I see and you do the same.
Hakuho needs to continue to run the table against all comers. Then retire on his terms and become a coach. And then his students need to run the table and defeat all comers. In no uncertain terms, that’s the best way to tell the JSA to kiss his entire Mongolian-borne backside.
Well, if he only has to seriously fight 1 tournament a year, that makes things a lot easier on his body! I'm thinking that Terunofuji will also take a similar attitude, given the state of his own joints, now that the threat of demotion is gone for him.
I got into sumo just this year and i am overjoyed that i can still see what hakuho is capable of. Hope he not only gets his 900th win september, but a 100 more!
Hakuho is the greatest yokozuna of this era. The Yokozuna council can flap their aged gums all they want, but Hakuho has been the leader. He attracted me and many others to sumo. They should be silent and watch greatness be what it is.
Good on him to slap back. He doesn’t care since he knows he’ll be Yokozuna soon anyway. I wish more rikishi would slap back, but I guess they’re afraid of the repercussions. Sad affair really.
@@romd.605 It's been a while since I've watched sumo but isn't slapping and open hand strikes of sort in the rules or is there an exception? I always felt that if Hakuho can slap - despite rank, then it's fair play for many if need be.
@@MindNumbingInc slapping back at the Greatest Yokozuna(or most Yokozuna’s) would have a lot of repercussions to the rikishi unless they are at a level of Teru.
As a Bulgarian I first saw some sumo matches in 2005 when Kotooshu got his runner-up performances, then started following more closely in 2008 when he won his only yusho. I am very happy that Kotooshu's performances tuned me in to the age of Hakuho, the greatest yokozuna of all time, as well as Asashoryu and Harumafuji. I also got to see the greatest sporting comeback story of all-time in Teronofuji's return. Truly, early 21st century sumo fans are spoiled for legendary events (although I am sure people who watched every age of sumo will have their similar story to tell).
Mahalo for always providing the best recaps and insight into the world of Sumo. Loved it as a kid where Chiyonofuji was a superhero in Hawaii before Akebono and Musashimaru became Yokozuna. In my 30’s now and I love Sumo all over again. Hakuho is a true tactician; can’t hate on that. It will be sad to see him retire.
In my opinion, the perfect Sumo wrestler by traditional sumo standards is Ikioi. He had never missed a match, never sat out an injury, always fought fair and head on. True paragon of sumo. Yet... where did it all get him? The man was a walking injury by the time he retired. That is the main take away from Hakuho's whole career and persona.
This is an excellent point. For all of the Sumo Council's toothless rhetoric, they uphold the status quo and that is, "Win, or be forgotten." Ikioi was a model martial artist, a man with an impeccable record until the very end and he doesn't retire with the fanfare or adulation of the Council, he retires with a resounding lack of anything resembling praise from the Council... Just slipping into the night with so, so many others. Hakuho wins. Hakuho **has to**. If he doesn't, you can bet that this group of ineffective fogies will do everything they can to remove him from the equation.
HAKUHO HAS ELEVATED SUMO TO A WHOLE+NOTHER DIMENSION OF IT’s OWN. THIS IS THE BEST SUMO TOURNAMENT IN THE WORLD OF SUMO TODAY AND DURING ALL OF HAKUHO’s ERA AND MAYBE MORE. THE ENTIRE LEGACY AND BACK+STORY LEADING UP TO IT’s MARVELOUS AND MASTERFULLY SIGNED BY THE GREATEST SUMO EVER. THANK YOU FOR SHARING YOUR BLESSINGS AND GIFT WITH THE WORLD HAKUHO. SUMO HAS JUST EVOLVED AND WE ARE FOREVER GRATEFUL FOR HAKUHO AND HIS FAMILY FOR ALLOWING US INTO HIS WORLD. FOREVER GRATEFUL♾🙏🏾
Chris, Words cannot adequately convey how much I enjoy your channel. Your videos and commentary are quite engaging and enlightening!! You are the Zensho Yusho Yokozuna of TH-cam!!! Thanks for all you do, sir!!
I began watching sumo on a regular basis during covid, and i despised hakuho from the bottom of my Heart the moment i Saw him. One year later, he... Just conquered me. He IS incredible
These unique inside scoops, that can only come to us by you being there, are what make me love this channel above all others. Thank you for your work and dedication.
Imagine the pain Hakuho puts the JSA elders through. One the one hand: The supreme effort he put in... On the other: He wasn't born in Japan... I like to think it almost makes some of them think.
Thats the problem with the japanese in sumo they can't stand that someone who is the best isn't japanese, if they don't want anyone to be better than them they shouldn't allow them to compete because its sad and petty at this point.
they took his stock...the gloves are off now. expect far more brutality from him as its easier on his ailing body and also feels like more freedom i imagine at not having to please the JSA anymore.
They didn’t take his stock; he still has stock. They just (seemingly) won’t give him lifetime status. Which is still a slap in the face, but it doesn’t change his career trajectory after retirement that much.
I am a big Hakuho fan and I'm thrilled he's back That said, judging from some of these comments, many see this as a black and white (Hakuho good/smart, council bad/dumb) situation It is as if a Japanese Yokozuna could do each and every thing Hakuho does and they would approve of it instead of criticize, which I don't believe to be the case Look no further than the punishment dolled-out to Asanoyama, their top candidate It is about the behavior They don't want to be forced to legislate every tiny detail into the rules You're expected to read the room so to speak, and live up to the standard that has come before Because the slippery slope is real, despite what anyone says And it is precisely these figures, the Yokozuna, that are should be ensuring the standard is maintained
Enormous respect how Hakuho fights & how he carries himself (at times with true emotion..). Can only wish Tochi would meet up with Hakuho's surgeon.. Thanks for the coverage Chris!
Hakuho is teaching us all, including the old, irrelevant farts of the JSA, what sumo is about. If they can't enjoy the learning experience, perhaps they should go open an Izakaya reataurant or take up gardening or something.
@@johnsmith1474 hardly. It's perfectly fair to be upset at an organisation that constantly attempts to rid itself of one of the best performers we've ever seen. Combine that with trying to withhold Elder Stock and it's the JSA that becomes laughable.
@@theplaguedoc8820 Everything you just said is wrong. If JSA wanted Hakuho gone, he would be and there would be nothing anyone would be able to do about it. Hakkaku was criticizing his behaviour, sure but it's not out of maliciousness, it's just old yokozuna making comments about younger one. Also, where In mickey mouse' clubhouse did you bring "They are witholding elder stock from Hakuho" argument from?
@@xxxxx6622 the outcry that would ensue from forcing Hakuho to retire would be huge. JSA has done absolutely everything they could so far to coerce him into retirement. While sure, it's not an outright ban, the efforts alone indicate that the JSA has some seriously misplaced interests. Regarding the elder stock, I highly recommend you check Sumostew's channel, she does a great explanation of how the JSA is attempting to prevent Hakuho from ever becoming an Oyakata.
@@theplaguedoc8820 Your comment is full of ignorance, first of all JSA does not care about anyone's outcry, if they want Hakuho gone he will be. Second of all, I know very well how elder stock works, as I've been following the sport for years. Hakuho already has hold of Magaki elder stock once he retires, he will become Magaki oyakata. As for the ichidai toshiyori stock, JSA did NOT refuse to give it to Hakuho. An independent body made a suggestion to JSA to abolish it entirely, but no decision has been made yet so Hakuho might just get it. Even if he did not manage to get Magaki stock or Ichidai toshiyori, he would still be able to be an oyakata for five years after retirement, because Yokozuna are afforded the privilege of being an oyakata under their ring name, for five years upon retirement, until they find a stock or an oyakata names them as their successor. In this case Hakuho would be Hakuho oyakata for a few years and considering that Miyagino oyakata will be retiring in the next five years, he will be named his successor and become Miyagino oyakata. I hope this cleared up the confusion, my advice would be to not be instantly outraged by an opinion piece and do your research about the issue before making wrong comments about how things are.
Thank you for your videos and perspective . Always enlightening . Since the crack down on sumo channels on TH-cam your channel becomes far more important to people outside of Japan.
What is Sumo is a good question to ask. They fix matches to protect some wrestlers, watch as a wrestler lies paralyzed in the ring with no proper protocols, undermine stables that question their decisions, attempt to publicly shame the best wrestler of this era, and on and on .. There is the Sumo in the ring which is a joy to watch, and then there is the Sumo behind the scenes, which boils down to protecting political power, corruption, dehumanization, anti-competitiveness, and denying the changing times.
@@Chimpertainment It saddens me that all sports are like this now. The more and deeper you look the more you become disgusted at how capitalism is necessary but at the same time ruins everything
Im brand new to sumo, this was my second tournament I watched, I was in awe of Hakuho at first (he wasnt in the previous tournament) but that match against Terunofuji and the more I learn about him (watching older matches) the more I have soured on him. Its amazing watching Hakuho perform (like watching Muhamed Ali or Anderson Silva) but I will now always be rooting for Terunofuji.
Hakuho's ancestor, the great Khan, would similarly feel that aesthetics could only hamper a warrior's ability overcome the odds. Being thoughtfully unpredictable, combined with a disciplined approach to battle, may be shared similar traits that have led them both to unprecedented success. We are seeing two great cultures collide in the dojo.
Yes, and no! He is the lineage of the Mongolian royal family - The Great Genghis Khan - the Altan Urag - The Golden Lineage on his mother's side. His mother is a minor princess in the lineage. According to the Mongolian tradition, those who descended from the female lineage, MAY and/or MAY NOT regarded the descendent of the Great Khan. It dependents on many things like how influential was his mother's clan and the performance of the prince to be and so on. Those who have descended from the male heirs will be 100 percent descendents of the great Khan - the Genghis Khan!
@@markhodge7 You are welcome, Mark. Your intuition was correct, and he is a direct and blood descendent of the Great Khan. It might be interesting for you to know that in today's Mongolian world - Mongolia, Inner Mongolia in China, Buriad, Kalmyk and Tuva Mongolia, and other Mongol regions of the world, the direct and blood descendents of the Great Khan - the Golden Lineage Family, still dominate everything from politics, to business, sports, academia, and military generals, and arts, and everything in Mongolia. They do not brag about this but everybody in Mongolian regions know that these people who lead them as the members of the Golden lineage. Perhaps, this has to do with their genes, plus, their up bringing and their unshakeable self confidence or even arrogance that they are special help them to achieve these great things including Hakuho! Plus: Both Hakuho and Asashoryu are distantly related to each other through the Golden Lineage!
@@bbatjargal1549 That final yell, and sneering face, captured on camera, as he beat Terunofuji, seemed to transport me back through the centuries to witness what it might have been like to have to face The Golden Horde. That face chilled me to the bone. Teru was no slouch either, matching the stare. Squatting down first only out of deferation, not intimidation. His comeback from injuries, also one for the ages. Those Steppes bred some hardy folk.
In a way, I am reminded of the Summit Series between Canada and Russia in 1972. From the outset, the NHL players on team Canada thought beating the Russians would be a piece of cake. Four games later, the Russians had more than held their own, dominating the series. An exasperated Phil Esposito had to reassure angry fans that the Canadians were trying their best. The series resumed in Russia, and in the final game, with less than a minute remaining, Paul Henderson scored the goal that won the game and the series for Canada... a moment still cherished nearly 50 years later. The Summit Series changed how many people thought of the game of hockey. The contrast of styles of play frustrated both teams, but led to improvements to the game. Canadians still consider hockey to be their national sport; hockey is enjoyed around the world. Many great players, like Dominik Hasek and Alexander Ovechkin may not have played in the NHL were it not for the exposure that the Summit Series began. Similarly, Japan has a national sport that is fiercely defended by its native fans. They would do well to consider the example of hockey, and how it has flourished to become an international sport by opening rather than closing its doors. Xenophobic actions, disguised as protecting the sport of Sumo, will only lead it down the path to irrelevance... with the possibility of it being reduced to an exhibition "event" rather than true competition.
The Canadian's were playing against two teams. The Russian hockey team, and the Russian referee team. Argue that statement all you want, but put on your glasses and watch those games again. If you know anything about the game of hockey, then their is no reason for you to challenge my statement. If you do, well Igor your just a butthurt Commie after all these years.
@@MisterDarren Actually, point just ignored due to momentarily high blood pressure caused by the memory of the Summit Shenanigans. I get what you said, but almost think of Japan considering themselves a 'step' above world exposure, as if Sumo would become a watered down event or 'less Japanese'. Call it what you will, but I'm sure their tiny little butts hurt over the success of athletes from other lands. I'm sure the success of Dutch athletes beating the bark off them, during Kyokushin tournaments still stings.
That start against Shodai - i have a feeling that it was not only to be sure of victory. It might have been for show. To be in the spotlight. I mean...Shodai was in terrible form. Hakuho would have defeated him easily with "standard" sumo. That being said, I don't see why the yokozuna council were so pissed off about it. After all, the fight was decided on the belt, with a normal force out. The slaps didn't win the bout; they were nothing compared to Takakenji's slaps. So, I can't help thinking that there are other, older, reasons behind the JSA's and Yokozuna Council's bitterness. Anyway - I am happy I got to see the GOAT again, for a full Basho. Pretty sure he doesn't have many more in him, sadly
I believe that of the competing Rikishi Shodai had one of the best Win\Loss records against him which MAY have had a part to play in his stance as it forced Shodai to change his game plan.
Shodai was the only Japanese Ozeki in the tournament (Asanoyama disgraced as a liar, Takakeisho severely injured and possibly losing the rank/retiring soon) so I suspect that they took it as a deeper insult than they normally would, especially with yet another Mongolian about to ascend to Yokozuna and the Council having to bail our Shodai recently by tinkering with the opponent match ups. Go back half a year and they might even have laughed about it.
The stake of this tournament, was too high for Hakuho, to take any risk of losing a single bout. Don't judge him the way he won every bout, he don't need to prove nothing to anyone anymore.
Best ever, might not be emotionless, or without dirty warfare, But I promote 15/0 at 36 no matter what if its allowed it is effective and needed, after March knee surgery I know anyone of the sumo elders wouldnt be able to do a 15/0 even without the surgery at 36,...respect Hakuho Sho, you are the Best of all time 💓🙏💯✨👍☺️💯💓
Never have i seen a Athlete who is the face of the sport be so criticized, hated and force to retire in any major sport and still Hakuho is the GOAT with all the records… Imagine NFL forcing Brady to retire Doesn’t Sumo have much to gain from this exposure? A once in a lifetime talent and most likely records that wont be broken in our lifetime.
I just can't get over how Hakuho gets treated within the sumo community. Dude is a legend. The greatest to ever do it. To my knowledge, he has never been caught up in public scandals, broken protocol, gotten into fights, etc. He's just gone out there and been the best. And he's hated for it. Could you imagine Michael Jordan being vilified by the NBA, while he's still playing and being the best player in NBA history? Blows my mind! And I'm a Terunofuji guy.
The sumo "fundamentalist" would actually ridicule Muhammad Ali for his legendary ability to avoid punches and Michael Jordan's ability to pump fake his opponents as being "lacking dignity"😂😂😂.
I admit that as a non-expert I was a little bit stunned at how his final two bouts seemed a little bit different from what I had anticipated. His slapping technique seemed like a keep away strategy and that he felt afraid of losing. It's even stranger to think that on day 13 or 14 two wrestlers attempted some roundhouse slaps that resembled a bar fight more than a sport of tradition, and were caught red-handed (pun intended). That said, I've seen in high levels of competition many times before where the winner may resort to "unconventional" tactics. More than being upset, I can't help but say that resorting to alternative tactics is a sign of flattery to their opponent's skill. Terunofuji might have won if they had gone directly in. I respect Hakuho even though I wanted Teru to win. I just hope they are gonna let the champ breathe a little and not hold this over his head. He deserves the elder stock.
I do not know much abou Sumo - watched it when Baruto was still active. But Hakuho was a legend already back then. The fight with Tobizaru here was... impressive. As Hakuho actually LOOMED above his opponent. And with Shodai.... Uh! I was afraid of trapping and sidestep (Henka? . which is frowned upon) But all in all, he did it. I do not know anything about the ethical limitations about the distance at the beginning of bout. Thanks for the broadcast, Chris Sumo.
Yes, it goes against post modern thinking where everyone gets a star on the forehead just for participating. That may be hard for you to comprehend because you've been raised in a post modern educational disaster.
@@johnsmith1474 I think that people here care too much about the sport part of sumo, ignoring the religious part all together which is just as important if not more. If the "lame boring old farts" from JSA werent around we could very well have yokozuna celebrating in style of McGregor with the chickenwalk garbage and so on... Yokozuna is not "just" about being good at the sport
@@PujDK I don't think anyone is saying that. I think people are saying he is being judged for winning in a way the elders don't like, but he is not doing anything wrong. Did he henka (which is still legal by the way, even if it shouldn't be) anyone? No. Did he run from Terunofuji on day 15 or employ some cheap tactic? Absolutely not, he took him head on. The only day he did anything even remotely not in keeping with sumo tradition was day 14 where he started the match near the ropes to avoid a full power charge. Every other day he handled the match in a perfectly normal and traditional way. Might I remind it isn't Hakuho or his stable getting busted for not following covid rules, for doing weird stunts on social media, or dealing with allegations of violence against junior members of the stable. He is not doing anything to embarrass the sport on any level. Why are they mad at him? Because he took time off to let his knee heal instead of competing on it knowing it would end his career. Also because he isn't natural born japanese, and yet, is indisputably the greatest sumo wrestler of all time.
The most interesting thing is on day 8. I know what most would say but if u pay attention & slow down that finish. It trully looks that while falling from ring he purposely changed direction and momentum to deliberately hit the person ringside. Im not well enuf versed/informed but it would be interesting to see whether theres any past history between him+ that person (trainer)
My view is that it is understandable why some Japanese - a minority of course, including some sumo elderly do not like Hakuho's performance and records: Who would have liked the fact that their national sport which is spiritually connected with their main belief - the Shinto Religion is dominated by foreigners beyond repair? His winning record is 45 and the closest is Taiho's 32 wins. It looks like there will not be anyone including Mongolian champions like Terunofuji who will challenge Hakuho's records in our life time, period!
As a westerner I can’t really comment on the Japanese as a whole, or even the minds of the JSA or YDC. However, I do believe that there is an element of xenophobia regarding sumo as evidenced by the limitations on foreign rikishi. Yet with Hakuho I think it goes much deeper. Shinto, Sumo and Samurai are all interwoven in a rich tapestry of culture. The history of wrestling is likely more important to the culture of Mongolia as it is the foremost of the three manly sports of Genghis Khan. There can only be a clash of cultures when the reserved Japanese world collides with that of the mongol horde. I’m just a westerner, but these two distinct cultures and styles of wrestling seem like oil and vinegar. Separately, they are unique. When mixed, they are better than the sum of their parts. Predictably, the amalgamation of religion, history and sport will never be homogeneous. The oil and vinegar will separate, as is their nature. Hakuho will forever be that bittersweet vinegar in to the JSA. They want him emulsified, yet he continues to rise to the top.
@@enkhzayazundui1063 I dont believe that, for me it looks like he literally went for judge after falling down. either way I'm not saying that as a bad thing, if he did actually do it, I like it lol. fuck em judges noone likes them everyone likes Hakuho.
Man do I despise those sumo elders. Who are they to criticize the best ever? Let them have Hakuho’s knee problems and try to win a single match, let alone them all. To quote Herman Edwards, you play to win the game. You play to win the game. And Hakuho won the game for the 45th time with his 16th zensho yusho. The elders should shut their mouths and appreciate what this man just did abd has done. It’ll never happen again.
you mentioned they got rid of the honorary elder stock. I remember they made a lot of noise about doing that earlier this ear but I don''t think I saw anything about them actually following through with that, can you point me towards a source for that? I only ask because I'm actually writing something about it and I don't want to be wrong
The latest I saw is that an independent body recommended the abolition of honorary elder stock but the JSA has not issued a decision on whether they will accept this recommendation.
If the sumo purists have such a problem with Hak's sumo they should probably strongly consider having their desciples actually beat him for a change. The goat is unbothered.
![ILLSLICK X YOUNGOHM - We're The same [Official Video]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/yUJNkobYR0E/mqdefault.jpg)
I've watched some legendary sports moments live. Hakuho winning this gave me a similar feeling. He isn't just the greatest sumo wrestler ever. He is one of the greatest athletes ever.
Not to mention the double battle...against his fellow rikishi and against those outside the dohyo.
I stopped cheering for sportsball long ago. I hadn’t jumped up cheering like I did for Hakuho vs Teru since I was in Tokyo watching 3 years ago watching Tochinoshin win back Ozeki and seeing the purple cushions fly.
@@A-Negative i was exactly the same , i was on my feet punching the air..It made up for my disappointment in federer losing wimbledon final two years ago after having two match points :)
I agree. I'm old enough to remember the 'Thriller in Manilla' and it had that feel to it.
You can go into any sports bar and strike up a conversation about who is the greatest boxer of all time. People will gladly engage the topic. Some passionately, some statistically, some without rhyme or reason (personally, my GOAT boxer is Marvin Hagler but only because that's the correct answer (lols)). What you will definitely find is that there is no consensus.
Of course with hoops there is Michael Jordan, and I defy you to find anyone in Chicago who wouldn't agree that he's the GOAT, but then go to Boston and Larry Bird may get more votes, and now LeBron's accomplishments have justifiably inserted him into the talk. My own favorite player is Magic Johnson, and I think a solid case could be made for Wilt Chamberlain and a veritable plethora of other greats.
Wayne Gretzky was a god in the NHL, but even in his own time you had Mario Lemieux posting more goals (and more points?) in a single season, and Mark Messier winning far more Stanley Cups, and old timers who were all like "screw da stats, it's Gordie Howe fer sure eh!"
Who's better, Bjorn Borg or Roger Federer?
The point is, the GOAT in a sport is largely a personal thing and relates as much to the fan as it does to the athlete.
.....................................................................................................................
Sumo might be the oldest sport in the world; no consensus on this question either (I read a solid sounding case that it's actually MMA, which was called "παγκράτιο" (Pankration) in the ancient Western world, and substantially predates early Greek wrestling - would be at least slightly ironic if true, considering modern MMA is one of the youngest sports in the world, so then we could add 'uninterrupted' to to our criteria, eliminate MMA from the discussion altogether and argue some more...), and the point of this ramble isn't to get to the bottom of the question of what's the oldest sport, but to point out that within the VERY OLD sport of Sumo, there is an indisputable GOAT, and his name is Hakuho Sho.
It's really not even close with his 45th basho banked, and no doubt he is getting very old for Sumo, and is definitely approaching the end of his career, but anyone thinking the guy had nothing left in the tank need simply take note that he didn't merely pick up his 45th yusho, he just pulled off another zensho!
(sorry about the WOT...)
So glad I discovered Sumo while the GOAT was still goating.
The last 3 years have been great, I can only hope for more.
He's a GOliATh!
@@showmethemonet9529 More like Hercules who met every labor with not only brawn but also cunning.
We're lucky.
Any 15-0 basho is so impressive - but this one - 15 days, 15 different opponents, 15 chances to slip up, 15 chances to just have some bad luck, 15 giant men slamming into you, all the while you’re not at 100%, but using your vast experience and guile, and on the final day beating decisively The New Man who will be the next Yokozuna - this 15-0 run was just inspired and heroic. This was Legendary even for The Legendary Hakuho.
That throw on daiesho with a flick of the knee was a beautiful piece of wrestling
Yes! Hakuho and Hoshoryu both showed the importance of supplementing a throw with a well placed leg this tournament. A pleasure to behold really
Savour this yokozuna! May he be around for as many 'basho's ' as his body permits! We are witnessing sumo perfection!
Hakuho’s recovery and return to dominance highlights something that is very wrong in sumo. Sumo officials look down on taking time off for injuries. They hold the belief that if you take a lot of time off to recover from an injury, then your sumo prowess will reduce. Most wrestlers get demoted when they miss several tournaments to highlight this idea, but Hakuho as a Yokozuna can’t be demoted. His return to being the super dominant and winning directly proves that sentiment wrong. And they hate it.
Bingo. Great comment.
Whoa - very insightful comment Admiral!
I've been a Sumo fan for 9 years now, and it's the callousness towards injury that I find to be the worst thing about the sport, starting with the height of dohyo top and the hard brutality of the area below, the lack of ringside medical preparedness (how many games does the NFL have every Sunday for 5 months, with ambulances and doctors standing by?), and the policy of counting medical leave as losses, thereby preventing rikishi from getting the surgeries they need and completing rehab before returning. IMHO, these policies actually ensure the sport is NOT performed at the highest level it could be.
@@chonqmonk Great example is Tochinoshin, slowly going down every tournament.
@@chonqmonk Absolutely. The one that stings me the most is Tochinoshin. He was the rikishi that got me into sumo, and then to see him as Ozeki and dominating was amazing. Then he injured his knee, but if he stops wrestling then he gets demoted, so he had to deal with it. I'm not saying he would have been a Yokozuna, but I am saying that because of this sentiment towards injury, it guaranteed he would never get a chance.
@@Altraice same, I used to root for him every match. Well I still do but now its with the expectation of a loss. I miss watching him be able to just lift rikishi up and walk them out. Now I've come to expect him to get pushed out almost immediately. Despite all his efforts he desperately needs time to recover or he's going to keep losing and hurt himself more possibly to the point of forced retirement.
Argh they address him like a child. "His coach must teach him!" The greatest sumo wrestler of all time, at 36. Unbelievable. Hakuho's every move displays more heroism, ingenuity, self possession, and grit than any of his critics could even dream of, much less recognize. The best and worst of Japanese culture on display, every tournament.
Also, 15 wins and the vast majority of them using different strategies every time. That level of mastery is as "yokozuna aesthetic" as you can get.
Just jealousy and the fact he isn't Japanese born.
@@karatejutsu It's nice for you to have such perfect simplistic knowledge of the universe, but it is in fact a bit more complicated than that.
@@zenbear4149 lol enlighten me oh great one 🙄
"The surest mark of a genius is that the dunces will all be in confederacy against him."
That basho was one of the greatest sporting events I've ever seen.
I agree!
Hi, Manny!
It was a mediocre basho.
@@johnsmith1474 nope, it was a basho that no one will forget. The 2 favorites fighting up until the last day.
@@johnsmith1474 😝
Here in the west we love great comeback stories. This basho we had two standing before us. Through the knee pain both fought. Through the xenophobia both endured. And the final outcome was victory for both.
Hakaho wins his 45th title and oldest rikishi to go 15-0. Terinofugi ascends to Yokozuna from the lowest rank ever. Twice.
Both are winners. Both are inspirational heroes to us all.
Hand pink hankies to the JSA members. Payback is a bitch, ain't it.
Both are mongolian! 🇲🇳🇲🇳🇲🇳
I haven't been following Sumo for all that long, but not a single other wrestler demonstrates the breadth of technique and style that Hakuho displays. For me, day 5 was the best bout - the way he wriggled and shifted his body to break the belt grip was simply spectacular.
It's all in the hips man...
As odd as this may be, it was the day before when Takanosho had'm beaten dead to rights and he still found a way to win that impressed me the most. To me, that exact ability, to regularly win bouts he has no business winning, is what always made him different than the other 3 yokozunae that have existed since I started watching the sport.
TERUNOFUJI noticeably makes a face and ROLLS HIS EYES at HAKUHO's far-back tachai vs SHODAI. WOW!!! Never noticed that before. Great footage Chris! 9:21
Lmao " Really bro? Really?"
Loved that!!
He was not impressed LOL
Great sumo logic - neutralize Shodai’s initial charge and give Teronofuji something to think about !!
Great catch!
Yokozuna Council: NO! You can't just win a tournament however you want! Looking the part is more important! Hakuho: Haha Zensho Yusho go brrrrrr
Right!?!?! Because they lack the ability to set up rules that lead to the product that they want to see?!?! Is that it? The JSA admitting that they are incompetent a/f?
Just as a fan, I know what 'The They' wanna see, and could draw up rule changes that make it so. I cannot imagine why they can't do the same.
If I were Hakuho, back a few years ago when they pressured him into stopping his patented 'slap into the forearm shiver tachaii,' I would have told them to go fuck themselves, and if they change the rules so that it isn't legal, then I'll stop, but not a moment sooner.
@@chonqmonk This basho proved that the jsa and yokozuna council are completely incompetent. They are just salty at this point because they couldn't get him to retire. Earlier in the year, you would always hear them say how he needs to perform at this next basho or its retirement. Well when he proceeds to show up and demolish everybody, you don't exactly get to complain about him doing exactly what you asked him to do. Changing the rules and saying, "Oh BuT yOu DidN't WrEsTlE lIkE a YoKoZuNa" is just a sad attempt to save face because they got completely embarrassed. The yokozuna council always moves the goalposts on him because at this point hes basically untouchable. Winning this tounament 15-0 was the biggest fuck you to the JSA and I'm all for it.
@@Espo97734 TRUTH.
What is the way of yokuzuna inside jsa's head? Just brute force every rikishii out of the ring? It's just like saying "as a goat in boxing you can't dogde". Fuck this shit lol. If I can win in a easy way why shouldn't I
Loved the reaction of delight from his stable mates in the background... Real team spirit!!!... HAKUHO IS THEGOD OF SUMO!!!!
I'm the furthest thing from a hakuho fan. I genuinely enjoy seeing him lose and look forward to a post hakuho world where basho are more wide open. But god damn it I was cheering for him by the end of this. That Hak v Teru fight was insane. I sincerely believe it's gonna go down as one of his top 5 fights of his career.
It was a disgrace to see some people out there not appreciating Hakuho's win including the jealous masters in the final who cares my Man had the last Laugh "Hakuho The Legend " my Yokozuna
The fist pump upon victory on Day 15 was undignified, but it made him human, and was actually a tribute of sorts to Terunofuji, evincing as it did the raw emotion of elation at being able to triumph against such an opponent. But the Japanese cultural traditions of maintaining always the utmost reserve frown upon such displays, and this, in their minds, further serves to emphasize Hakuho's "foreigness".
I agree with you, it is a testimony to Terunofuji's strength as an opponent, and also shows Hakuho's vulnerability - he did hear all the sniping, after all?
Stoicism, to the Japanese, is the utmost sign of self control in all aspects of Japanese life, not just Sumo.
Hakuho has been 14 years a Yokozuna. He has been announced as “foreign born” every single time he fought in GS. Knowing you will never be fully accepted, why try to be anything but yourself? Where one sees “vulnerability” I see strength and courage; courage to be true to yourself in the face of such constant adversity; the strength to persevere in an environment that doesn’t want you, but needs you knowing the popularity of this ancient sport you’re in depends on having you.
Being that old dominant for so so long, with the entire media and the elders all having written you off, doing their very best to see you pushed out of (completely and absolutely) the sport you love so much that you renounced your own native land’s citizenship to become a Japanese citizen and further your sumo career as a coach; the JSA trying to deny you what you deserve by their own standards in elder stock.....and still have the balls to express yourself in your art....as an artist myself it is inspiring.
Each rikishi sees what they do as art, and their style of art is what’s on display. I love everything Hakuho paints❤️
@@michealhuff2299 that’s it. Why try to be something they won’t let you be? That’s an unfortunate mantra to life in Japan in general.
His fighting spirit may indeed be strong, but how long can a man with a body like that continue to drive on against sumo elders who clearly want him gone? Only a true legend could sustain that, and Hakuho surely must be now.
He can easy compete till 40 yo. As long as not getting injury.
Nonsense. "Body like that" his body is good, he just proved it. "Elders want him gone" you don't know that and it isn't in evidence. The guy was a legend five years ago, your analysis is lousy.
@@johnsmith1474 In your opinion, my analysis is faulty. I believe otherwise. Good to know you see differently than I. But I’ll stick to what I see and you do the same.
Hakuho needs to continue to run the table against all comers. Then retire on his terms and become a coach. And then his students need to run the table and defeat all comers. In no uncertain terms, that’s the best way to tell the JSA to kiss his entire Mongolian-borne backside.
Well, if he only has to seriously fight 1 tournament a year, that makes things a lot easier on his body!
I'm thinking that Terunofuji will also take a similar attitude, given the state of his own joints, now that the threat of demotion is gone for him.
I got into sumo just this year and i am overjoyed that i can still see what hakuho is capable of. Hope he not only gets his 900th win september, but a 100 more!
Hakuho is the greatest yokozuna of this era. The Yokozuna council can flap their aged gums all they want, but Hakuho has been the leader. He attracted me and many others to sumo. They should be silent and watch greatness be what it is.
GREATEST YOKOZUNA EVER. The council are all inferior and jealous.
Terunofuji is the only rikishi that slapped back at Hakuho!! Let's me know My Man isn't scared and willing to battle it out with him every time.
Good on him to slap back. He doesn’t care since he knows he’ll be Yokozuna soon anyway. I wish more rikishi would slap back, but I guess they’re afraid of the repercussions. Sad affair really.
@@romd.605 It's been a while since I've watched sumo but isn't slapping and open hand strikes of sort in the rules or is there an exception? I always felt that if Hakuho can slap - despite rank, then it's fair play for many if need be.
@@MindNumbingInc slapping back at the Greatest Yokozuna(or most Yokozuna’s) would have a lot of repercussions to the rikishi unless they are at a level of Teru.
One of the best sportsman of all time. Long may he reign
What a neck!
As a Bulgarian I first saw some sumo matches in 2005 when Kotooshu got his runner-up performances, then started following more closely in 2008 when he won his only yusho. I am very happy that Kotooshu's performances tuned me in to the age of Hakuho, the greatest yokozuna of all time, as well as Asashoryu and Harumafuji. I also got to see the greatest sporting comeback story of all-time in Teronofuji's return.
Truly, early 21st century sumo fans are spoiled for legendary events (although I am sure people who watched every age of sumo will have their similar story to tell).
Mahalo for always providing the best recaps and insight into the world of Sumo. Loved it as a kid where Chiyonofuji was a superhero in Hawaii before Akebono and Musashimaru became Yokozuna. In my 30’s now and I love Sumo all over again. Hakuho is a true tactician; can’t hate on that. It will be sad to see him retire.
I legitimately was thinking how Day 1 may have been our final time watching him perform. How wrong and delighted I was.
Ditto!!
In my opinion, the perfect Sumo wrestler by traditional sumo standards is Ikioi. He had never missed a match, never sat out an injury, always fought fair and head on. True paragon of sumo. Yet... where did it all get him? The man was a walking injury by the time he retired. That is the main take away from Hakuho's whole career and persona.
This is an excellent point. For all of the Sumo Council's toothless rhetoric, they uphold the status quo and that is, "Win, or be forgotten."
Ikioi was a model martial artist, a man with an impeccable record until the very end and he doesn't retire with the fanfare or adulation of the Council, he retires with a resounding lack of anything resembling praise from the Council... Just slipping into the night with so, so many others.
Hakuho wins. Hakuho **has to**. If he doesn't, you can bet that this group of ineffective fogies will do everything they can to remove him from the equation.
Hard not to appreciate and marvel.at Hakuho at this point, one of the great sportsmen and arguably the greatest Rikishi ever
I had faith in the phoenix and knew he'd rise again and boy did he.
Thank you Chris for the sumo news it always brightens up my day.
HAKUHO HAS ELEVATED SUMO TO A WHOLE+NOTHER DIMENSION OF IT’s OWN. THIS IS THE BEST SUMO TOURNAMENT IN THE WORLD OF SUMO TODAY AND DURING ALL OF HAKUHO’s ERA AND MAYBE MORE. THE ENTIRE LEGACY AND BACK+STORY LEADING UP TO IT’s MARVELOUS AND MASTERFULLY SIGNED BY THE GREATEST SUMO EVER. THANK YOU FOR SHARING YOUR BLESSINGS AND GIFT WITH THE WORLD HAKUHO. SUMO HAS JUST EVOLVED AND WE ARE FOREVER GRATEFUL FOR HAKUHO AND HIS FAMILY FOR ALLOWING US INTO HIS WORLD. FOREVER GRATEFUL♾🙏🏾
Thank you Chris for the insights you bring to me with every video. You are as important to me as watching the whole Basho.
Hakuho is still and will be for the next eternity the GOAT and the only one on the summit of the Sumo Olymp.
That is for damn sure!!!!
Excellent and vivid story telling. We are lucky to have you Chris
Chris, Words cannot adequately convey how much I enjoy your channel. Your videos and commentary are quite engaging and enlightening!! You are the Zensho Yusho Yokozuna of TH-cam!!! Thanks for all you do, sir!!
I began watching sumo on a regular basis during covid, and i despised hakuho from the bottom of my Heart the moment i Saw him. One year later, he... Just conquered me. He IS incredible
Other than his knee he seems still at or around his peak. The strength, speed, reflexes, moves and ringcraft are all still intact.
Exactly, which demonstrates you are not easily bs'd by this channel.
@@johnsmith1474 😝
These unique inside scoops, that can only come to us by you being there, are what make me love this channel above all others. Thank you for your work and dedication.
Hakuho throwing up those glorious 130’s on the bench. Like a beast. Great info and presentation as always Chris!
Hakuho! He's a champion, plain and simple. The fact so many hate him makes me hope he wins a few more tournaments to spite them.
Hakuho, the Phoenix needs to fall before it can rise from the ashes. You are relentless. What great inspiration
Imagine the pain Hakuho puts the JSA elders through. One the one hand: The supreme effort he put in... On the other: He wasn't born in Japan... I like to think it almost makes some of them think.
Thats the problem with the japanese in sumo they can't stand that someone who is the best isn't japanese, if they don't want anyone to be better than them they shouldn't allow them to compete because its sad and petty at this point.
Outstanding channel. You are outstanding....Hakuko-esque!! Bravo from south africa
they took his stock...the gloves are off now. expect far more brutality from him as its easier on his ailing body and also feels like more freedom i imagine at not having to please the JSA anymore.
Brutality?
Yeah, they didn't. And, yes he still does.
They didn’t take his stock; he still has stock. They just (seemingly) won’t give him lifetime status. Which is still a slap in the face, but it doesn’t change his career trajectory after retirement that much.
I wanted teru to win but was not upset with the result, Hakuho is the GOAT after all and it was a great comeback tournament
Terrific summary Chris. I enjoy your work enormously
I am a big Hakuho fan and I'm thrilled he's back
That said, judging from some of these comments, many see this as a black and white (Hakuho good/smart, council bad/dumb) situation
It is as if a Japanese Yokozuna could do each and every thing Hakuho does and they would approve of it instead of criticize, which I don't believe to be the case
Look no further than the punishment dolled-out to Asanoyama, their top candidate
It is about the behavior
They don't want to be forced to legislate every tiny detail into the rules
You're expected to read the room so to speak, and live up to the standard that has come before
Because the slippery slope is real, despite what anyone says
And it is precisely these figures, the Yokozuna, that are should be ensuring the standard is maintained
The greatest of all time, in any sport!
John Brzenk, Arm Wrestling!
I'm so thankful for you narrating the sumo contests. One of my favorite channels on TH-cam
Enormous respect how Hakuho fights & how he carries himself (at times with true emotion..). Can only wish Tochi would meet up with Hakuho's surgeon.. Thanks for the coverage Chris!
So true Chris 👍Thank you for your hard 💪work on this channel!
That simultaneous nod at the end of the last bout gives me goosebumps half a world away!
Hakuho is teaching us all, including the old, irrelevant farts of the JSA, what sumo is about. If they can't enjoy the learning experience, perhaps they should go open an Izakaya reataurant or take up gardening or something.
A crank dismissing the JSA is laughable, your fanboy perspective is juvenile.
@@johnsmith1474 hardly. It's perfectly fair to be upset at an organisation that constantly attempts to rid itself of one of the best performers we've ever seen. Combine that with trying to withhold Elder Stock and it's the JSA that becomes laughable.
@@theplaguedoc8820 Everything you just said is wrong. If JSA wanted Hakuho gone, he would be and there would be nothing anyone would be able to do about it. Hakkaku was criticizing his behaviour, sure but it's not out of maliciousness, it's just old yokozuna making comments about younger one. Also, where In mickey mouse' clubhouse did you bring "They are witholding elder stock from Hakuho" argument from?
@@xxxxx6622 the outcry that would ensue from forcing Hakuho to retire would be huge. JSA has done absolutely everything they could so far to coerce him into retirement. While sure, it's not an outright ban, the efforts alone indicate that the JSA has some seriously misplaced interests. Regarding the elder stock, I highly recommend you check Sumostew's channel, she does a great explanation of how the JSA is attempting to prevent Hakuho from ever becoming an Oyakata.
@@theplaguedoc8820 Your comment is full of ignorance, first of all JSA does not care about anyone's outcry, if they want Hakuho gone he will be. Second of all, I know very well how elder stock works, as I've been following the sport for years. Hakuho already has hold of Magaki elder stock once he retires, he will become Magaki oyakata. As for the ichidai toshiyori stock, JSA did NOT refuse to give it to Hakuho. An independent body made a suggestion to JSA to abolish it entirely, but no decision has been made yet so Hakuho might just get it. Even if he did not manage to get Magaki stock or Ichidai toshiyori, he would still be able to be an oyakata for five years after retirement, because Yokozuna are afforded the privilege of being an oyakata under their ring name, for five years upon retirement, until they find a stock or an oyakata names them as their successor. In this case Hakuho would be Hakuho oyakata for a few years and considering that Miyagino oyakata will be retiring in the next five years, he will be named his successor and become Miyagino oyakata. I hope this cleared up the confusion, my advice would be to not be instantly outraged by an opinion piece and do your research about the issue before making wrong comments about how things are.
Thank you for your videos and perspective . Always enlightening . Since the crack down on sumo channels on TH-cam your channel becomes far more important to people outside of Japan.
We are so glad to be living in this era of Hakuho and seeing the Greatest Sumo wrestler of all time.
To all those crying, "What is Sumo?" Hakuho IS sumo!
Hakuho is the sole reason why I took an interest into sumo. How they treat him though leaves something to be said
Wrong.
What is Sumo is a good question to ask. They fix matches to protect some wrestlers, watch as a wrestler lies paralyzed in the ring with no proper protocols, undermine stables that question their decisions, attempt to publicly shame the best wrestler of this era, and on and on .. There is the Sumo in the ring which is a joy to watch, and then there is the Sumo behind the scenes, which boils down to protecting political power, corruption, dehumanization, anti-competitiveness, and denying the changing times.
@@Chimpertainment It saddens me that all sports are like this now. The more and deeper you look the more you become disgusted at how capitalism is necessary but at the same time ruins everything
@@johnsmith1474 You part of the council? lol
Im brand new to sumo, this was my second tournament I watched, I was in awe of Hakuho at first (he wasnt in the previous tournament) but that match against Terunofuji and the more I learn about him (watching older matches) the more I have soured on him. Its amazing watching Hakuho perform (like watching Muhamed Ali or Anderson Silva) but I will now always be rooting for Terunofuji.
Sumo is whatever Hakuho (GOAT) says it is. He has earned that right. The elders of Sumo have lost all right to criticize.
Its just day 14 that they saw a chance to criticize him again
Хакухо- это бог сумо!!! Он спустился с небес и показал нам, кто царь горы!!!
Goat. Imagine how handily he would have won this basho if he had been completely healthy. A genius. This was his greatest victory in his career.
Hakuho's ancestor, the great Khan, would similarly feel that aesthetics could only hamper a warrior's ability overcome the odds. Being thoughtfully unpredictable, combined with a disciplined approach to battle, may be shared similar traits that have led them both to unprecedented success. We are seeing two great cultures collide in the dojo.
Yes, and no! He is the lineage of the Mongolian royal family - The Great Genghis Khan - the Altan Urag - The Golden Lineage on his mother's side. His mother is a minor princess in the lineage. According to the Mongolian tradition, those who descended from the female lineage, MAY and/or MAY NOT regarded the descendent of the Great Khan. It dependents on many things like how influential was his mother's clan and the performance of the prince to be and so on. Those who have descended from the male heirs will be 100 percent descendents of the great Khan - the Genghis Khan!
@@bbatjargal1549 Thanks. I didn't realize he was possibly that closely related. I simply meant he was of Mongolian descent and culture
@@markhodge7 You are welcome, Mark. Your intuition was correct, and he is a direct and blood descendent of the Great Khan. It might be interesting for you to know that in today's Mongolian world - Mongolia, Inner Mongolia in China, Buriad, Kalmyk and Tuva Mongolia, and other Mongol regions of the world, the direct and blood descendents of the Great Khan - the Golden Lineage Family, still dominate everything from politics, to business, sports, academia, and military generals, and arts, and everything in Mongolia. They do not brag about this but everybody in Mongolian regions know that these people who lead them as the members of the Golden lineage. Perhaps, this has to do with their genes, plus, their up bringing and their unshakeable self confidence or even arrogance that they are special help them to achieve these great things including Hakuho! Plus: Both Hakuho and Asashoryu are distantly related to each other through the Golden Lineage!
@@bbatjargal1549 Interesting, thanks for the historical context.
@@bbatjargal1549 That final yell, and sneering face, captured on camera, as he beat Terunofuji, seemed to transport me back through the centuries to witness what it might have been like to have to face The Golden Horde. That face chilled me to the bone. Teru was no slouch either, matching the stare. Squatting down first only out of deferation, not intimidation. His comeback from injuries, also one for the ages. Those Steppes bred some hardy folk.
In a way, I am reminded of the Summit Series between Canada and Russia in 1972.
From the outset, the NHL players on team Canada thought beating the Russians would be a piece of cake.
Four games later, the Russians had more than held their own, dominating the series. An exasperated Phil Esposito had to reassure angry fans that the Canadians were trying their best.
The series resumed in Russia, and in the final game, with less than a minute remaining, Paul Henderson scored the goal that won the game and the series for Canada... a moment still cherished nearly 50 years later.
The Summit Series changed how many people thought of the game of hockey. The contrast of styles of play frustrated both teams, but led to improvements to the game.
Canadians still consider hockey to be their national sport; hockey is enjoyed around the world. Many great players, like Dominik Hasek and Alexander Ovechkin may not have played in the NHL were it not for the exposure that the Summit Series began.
Similarly, Japan has a national sport that is fiercely defended by its native fans. They would do well to consider the example of hockey, and how it has flourished to become an international sport by opening rather than closing its doors.
Xenophobic actions, disguised as protecting the sport of Sumo, will only lead it down the path to irrelevance... with the possibility of it being reduced to an exhibition "event" rather than true competition.
@@Feroce now that's an interesting prospect, and takes into account the importance of the ceremonial aspect.
The Canadian's were playing against two teams. The Russian hockey team, and the Russian referee team. Argue that statement all you want, but put on your glasses and watch those games again. If you know anything about the game of hockey, then their is no reason for you to challenge my statement. If you do, well Igor your just a butthurt Commie after all these years.
@@beerthug point missed but ummmm thanks?
@@MisterDarren Actually, point just ignored due to momentarily high blood pressure caused by the memory of the Summit Shenanigans. I get what you said, but almost think of Japan considering themselves a 'step' above world exposure, as if Sumo would become a watered down event or 'less Japanese'. Call it what you will, but I'm sure their tiny little butts hurt over the success of athletes from other lands. I'm sure the success of Dutch athletes beating the bark off them, during Kyokushin tournaments still stings.
MisterDarren
Thank you for sharing. Good essay! 👌 thumbs up.
That start against Shodai - i have a feeling that it was not only to be sure of victory. It might have been for show. To be in the spotlight.
I mean...Shodai was in terrible form. Hakuho would have defeated him easily with "standard" sumo.
That being said, I don't see why the yokozuna council were so pissed off about it. After all, the fight was decided on the belt, with a normal force out. The slaps didn't win the bout; they were nothing compared to Takakenji's slaps. So, I can't help thinking that there are other, older, reasons behind the JSA's and Yokozuna Council's bitterness.
Anyway - I am happy I got to see the GOAT again, for a full Basho. Pretty sure he doesn't have many more in him, sadly
I believe that of the competing Rikishi Shodai had one of the best Win\Loss records against him which MAY have had a part to play in his stance as it forced Shodai to change his game plan.
takaganja
Shodai was the only Japanese Ozeki in the tournament (Asanoyama disgraced as a liar, Takakeisho severely injured and possibly losing the rank/retiring soon) so I suspect that they took it as a deeper insult than they normally would, especially with yet another Mongolian about to ascend to Yokozuna and the Council having to bail our Shodai recently by tinkering with the opponent match ups.
Go back half a year and they might even have laughed about it.
it is what it is , hakuho is GOAT
I've just very recently found myself interested in Sumo, I'm glad I found your channel.
Chris, the reasons are subtle, but this is your best work.
The stake of this tournament, was too high for Hakuho, to take any risk of losing a single bout. Don't judge him the way he won every bout, he don't need to prove nothing to anyone anymore.
Amazing performance.
Thanks Chris for all your hard work!! Love your channel!!
Thank you for this superb summary.
the old heads and critics need to realize: a win is a win.
I miss Hakuho. He brought so much excitement.
One of your finest videos. Loved it.
Love this HAKOHO moment forever! He is the best!
Best ever, might not be emotionless, or without dirty warfare, But I promote 15/0 at 36 no matter what if its allowed it is effective and needed, after March knee surgery I know anyone of the sumo elders wouldnt be able to do a 15/0 even without the surgery at 36,...respect Hakuho Sho, you are the Best of all time 💓🙏💯✨👍☺️💯💓
He is a legend. No one can’t repeat he’s records.
Never have i seen a Athlete who is the face of the sport be so criticized, hated and force to retire in any major sport and still Hakuho is the GOAT with all the records…
Imagine NFL forcing Brady to retire
Doesn’t Sumo have much to gain from this exposure? A once in a lifetime talent and most likely records that wont be broken in our lifetime.
Once again, smartly insightful reflections.
Love your videos. Thank you so much!
I just want to write this, 15-0.
I just can't get over how Hakuho gets treated within the sumo community. Dude is a legend. The greatest to ever do it. To my knowledge, he has never been caught up in public scandals, broken protocol, gotten into fights, etc. He's just gone out there and been the best. And he's hated for it. Could you imagine Michael Jordan being vilified by the NBA, while he's still playing and being the best player in NBA history? Blows my mind! And I'm a Terunofuji guy.
He may be the GOAT but it's the way he acts and wrestles that leaves a bad taste in the mouths of many people.
The sumo "fundamentalist" would actually ridicule Muhammad Ali for his legendary ability to avoid punches and Michael Jordan's ability to pump fake his opponents as being "lacking dignity"😂😂😂.
The sumo council has issued a warning to Chris Sumo for showing enjoyment of sumo.
I admit that as a non-expert I was a little bit stunned at how his final two bouts seemed a little bit different from what I had anticipated.
His slapping technique seemed like a keep away strategy and that he felt afraid of losing. It's even stranger to think that on day 13 or 14 two wrestlers attempted some roundhouse slaps that resembled a bar fight more than a sport of tradition, and were caught red-handed (pun intended).
That said, I've seen in high levels of competition many times before where the winner may resort to "unconventional" tactics. More than being upset, I can't help but say that resorting to alternative tactics is a sign of flattery to their opponent's skill.
Terunofuji might have won if they had gone directly in. I respect Hakuho even though I wanted Teru to win.
I just hope they are gonna let the champ breathe a little and not hold this over his head.
He deserves the elder stock.
I do not know much abou Sumo - watched it when Baruto was still active. But Hakuho was a legend already back then. The fight with Tobizaru here was... impressive. As Hakuho actually LOOMED above his opponent. And with Shodai.... Uh! I was afraid of trapping and sidestep (Henka? . which is frowned upon) But all in all, he did it. I do not know anything about the ethical limitations about the distance at the beginning of bout. Thanks for the broadcast, Chris Sumo.
It’s so hard to be a Yokozuna in sumo! They want u to win, otherwise force u to retire. At the same time, u got to win the RIGHT way?!
Yes, it goes against post modern thinking where everyone gets a star on the forehead just for participating. That may be hard for you to comprehend because you've been raised in a post modern educational disaster.
@@johnsmith1474 I think that people here care too much about the sport part of sumo, ignoring the religious part all together which is just as important if not more. If the "lame boring old farts" from JSA werent around we could very well have yokozuna celebrating in style of McGregor with the chickenwalk garbage and so on... Yokozuna is not "just" about being good at the sport
@@PujDK I don't think anyone is saying that. I think people are saying he is being judged for winning in a way the elders don't like, but he is not doing anything wrong. Did he henka (which is still legal by the way, even if it shouldn't be) anyone? No. Did he run from Terunofuji on day 15 or employ some cheap tactic? Absolutely not, he took him head on. The only day he did anything even remotely not in keeping with sumo tradition was day 14 where he started the match near the ropes to avoid a full power charge. Every other day he handled the match in a perfectly normal and traditional way.
Might I remind it isn't Hakuho or his stable getting busted for not following covid rules, for doing weird stunts on social media, or dealing with allegations of violence against junior members of the stable. He is not doing anything to embarrass the sport on any level. Why are they mad at him? Because he took time off to let his knee heal instead of competing on it knowing it would end his career. Also because he isn't natural born japanese, and yet, is indisputably the greatest sumo wrestler of all time.
@@DKarkarov well said. Hakuho is leagues different than McGregor
@@PujDK The slippery slope of this kind of logic you displayed here never cease to amaze me.
He has always had critics, but he is the GOAT by far.
Living legend!
The most interesting thing is on day 8. I know what most would say but if u pay attention & slow down that finish. It trully looks that while falling from ring he purposely changed direction and momentum to deliberately hit the person ringside. Im not well enuf versed/informed but it would be interesting to see whether theres any past history between him+ that person (trainer)
Keep fighting Hakuho!
15-0 trumps every negative comment about his style this Basho, especially those from non competing old judges and crusty council members...
My view is that it is understandable why some Japanese - a minority of course, including some sumo elderly do not like Hakuho's performance and records: Who would have liked the fact that their national sport which is spiritually connected with their main belief - the Shinto Religion is dominated by foreigners beyond repair? His winning record is 45 and the closest is Taiho's 32 wins. It looks like there will not be anyone including Mongolian champions like Terunofuji who will challenge Hakuho's records in our life time, period!
As a westerner I can’t really comment on the Japanese as a whole, or even the minds of the JSA or YDC. However, I do believe that there is an element of xenophobia regarding sumo as evidenced by the limitations on foreign rikishi. Yet with Hakuho I think it goes much deeper.
Shinto, Sumo and Samurai are all interwoven in a rich tapestry of culture. The history of wrestling is likely more important to the culture of Mongolia as it is the foremost of the three manly sports of Genghis Khan. There can only be a clash of cultures when the reserved Japanese world collides with that of the mongol horde.
I’m just a westerner, but these two distinct cultures and styles of wrestling seem like oil and vinegar. Separately, they are unique. When mixed, they are better than the sum of their parts. Predictably, the amalgamation of religion, history and sport will never be homogeneous. The oil and vinegar will separate, as is their nature.
Hakuho will forever be that bittersweet vinegar in to the JSA. They want him emulsified, yet he continues to rise to the top.
Sumo does not discourage foreigner, it invites them. But they join sumo, not the other way around.
I couldn't have put it better, you brought the point beautifully.
@@johnsmith1474 Considering every heya is only allowed to have a single foreign rikishi, your statement is just demonstrably false.
@@bjrnmagnusson5351 excellent metaphor.
Long live the legend of Hakuho...the G.O.A.T
Endeavor to persevere!😎🤙🕉
6:43 it looks like he is specifically trying to bump into ring side judge lol. love it
Judge was right in his way falling.
@@enkhzayazundui1063 I dont believe that, for me it looks like he literally went for judge after falling down. either way I'm not saying that as a bad thing, if he did actually do it, I like it lol. fuck em judges noone likes them everyone likes Hakuho.
@@enkhzayazundui1063 he manipulated trajectory of that fall at last second for better impact ;
@@Fifus92 😄
Yup. TAKE THAT!!!. I watched it over and over. Very satisfying
Man do I despise those sumo elders. Who are they to criticize the best ever? Let them have Hakuho’s knee problems and try to win a single match, let alone them all. To quote Herman Edwards, you play to win the game. You play to win the game. And Hakuho won the game for the 45th time with his 16th zensho yusho. The elders should shut their mouths and appreciate what this man just did abd has done. It’ll never happen again.
He has the status, the finesse, the brashness, and the controversy of Ali.
Lucky to be living in his era!
Exactly my thoughts! ❤
you mentioned they got rid of the honorary elder stock. I remember they made a lot of noise about doing that earlier this ear but I don''t think I saw anything about them actually following through with that, can you point me towards a source for that? I only ask because I'm actually writing something about it and I don't want to be wrong
The latest I saw is that an independent body recommended the abolition of honorary elder stock but the JSA has not issued a decision on whether they will accept this recommendation.
Also, an explanation of elder stock on the SUMOSTEW channel is informative.
He always has something to prove due to all the doubters just like Tom Brady
Great video!
i love this channel
If the sumo purists have such a problem with Hak's sumo they should probably strongly consider having their desciples actually beat him for a change.
The goat is unbothered.
"No i would do this" "I would do that" says everyone that would lose to Hakuho
Because of Hakuho I feel in love with sumo, the goat 🐐