Asanowaka

[abe@kaleida.com (Masumi Abe)]

A notable phenomenon at Nagoya-basho was the sudden popularity of
Asanowaka. One reason was that he was "gotohchi-zumo", a rikishi from the
local area. He is from Nagoya area.

But it was not the only reason. He is very unique, and once you see his
sumo, you'll never forget this rikishi.

When he enter the dohyo, he smash the salt while he running into the dohyo.
In addition, his shikiri style was called pushup style. His chin and chest
almost touch the dohyo surface when he does shikiri. Some critics said that
Asanowaka is not following the guidance of shikiri, which says rikishi
needs to be ready to start match anytime during shikiri. Reason of argue is
that he cannot start match from his shikiri position.

In any case, sumo fan in Nagoya liked Asanowaka so much. Despite his 6-9
record, he was among 10 best rikishi earned more extra money from
kensho-kin in Nagoya.

rank  shikona           number of kensho received (60,000 yen / kensho)
1. Musashimaru          93
1. Wakanohana           93
3. Takanohana           75
4. Takanonami           36
4. Tomonohana           36
6. Mainoumi             26
7. Takatoriki           20
8. Musoyama             18
9. Hamanoshima          17
10. Asanowaka           13
10. Tokitsunada         13

-Masumi
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Masumi Abe                               阿部　加史（あべ　ますみ）
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