And that’s a wrap. We have our champion for the 2024 Hatsu Basho. I really enjoyed the climax of this tournament, even if along the way I was pretty bummed out by how many guys went down injured.
Even so, we got great matches, fascinating story-lines and some joyous successes mixed with crushing dissapointments.
My final day recap is up on Bloody Elbow now. (link)
Thank you all so much for sticking with me for another tournament. I really appreciate all of you who read, like, share and comment on these posts (both here on Substack and on Bloody Elbow).
If you like what I do here on Sumo Stomp! (and/or BE) and want to support me, the best way to do that is with a paid subscription. Paid subscriptions show me there is an audience for this sumo coverage and encourages me to make premium pieces.
If you want to read the forthcoming premium pieces (which will include my report card series and a special deep dive on Ura’s performances this tournament) you’ll need a paid subscription.
If that’s not something you can afford right now (or want to do), I totally get it. It’s all good and I’m still delighted you’re here.
Bonus gif today is the surprising Shimazuumi aka Little Vito [Spatafore].
RIP Vito.