Assault Allegations Confrontation with Former Sekiwake Itsu-no-jo After Tonsure Ceremony

A prominent figure who had been involved in frictions bid farewell to the world of sumo.

On February 11, former Sekiwake Itsu-no-jo (30) held a hair cutting ceremony at a hotel in Tokyo.

“Since the retirement press conference before last year’s summer tournament, it’s been 10 months since he appeared in public. On that day, about 420 people, including acquaintances from his native Mongolia and officials from his alma mater, Tottori Johoku High School, attended the ceremony.” (National sports journalist)

When it comes to Itunoshin, his misconduct, such as the assault allegations against the female proprietor of the Minato stable where he belonged, has been reported, leading to estrangement from his master, Minato oyakata. His master was also absent from this hair-cutting ceremony.

“Usually, the hair-cutting ceremony is held at the Kokugikan (Sumo Hall). The Minato stable wanted to give him a refreshing send-off. However, it seems Itunoshin refused to make the customary visits to the Japan Sumo Association to arrange the use of the Kokugikan, so the ceremony was held at a hotel instead. It appears he intends to live a life distancing himself from the sumo world going forward.” (Sumo industry insider)

Having retired with lingering resentments, Itunoshin was approached by FRIDAY after the hair-cutting ceremony.

Thank you for your hard work during your active career.

“Thank you”

How do you feel now that the big ginkgo leaf has been removed?

“My head feels clear and light.”

Did you not contact your stablemaster and the female manager?

“…………”

Have you not reconciled with the stable?

“No. I think I did well today.”

With that, he quickly boarded the shuttle and left the venue. It seems the stable’s wish for a clean ending didn’t reach Itsu-no-jo.

From the March 1 and 8, 2024 issues of FRIDAY