Onosato Shocks Sumo World with Upset Win Over Terunofuji

Upsets Mark the Opening Day of the Summer Grand Sumo Tournament

The Summer Grand Sumo Tournament kicked off on Sunday with a series of stunning upsets, as newly promoted komusubi Onosato overpowered lone yokozuna Terunofuji.

Onosato, 23, was the only winner among the three "sanyaku" ranks below yokozuna. All four ozeki and both sekiwake lost their opening bouts at Ryogoku Kokugikan.

Terunofuji, 32, entered the tournament with questions about his ability to withstand the rigors of competition due to past injuries. His performance against Onosato did little to dispel these concerns.

Neither wrestler gained a clear advantage at the initial clash. However, Onosato quickly seized the opportunity, executing a beltless arm throw after Terunofuji gave him an opening.

This victory positions Onosato as a potential title contender. If he wins the Emperor's Cup in 14 days, he will become the fastest wrestler to win a top-flight championship from his competitive debut.

Ozeki Kotozakura, formerly Kotonowaka, lost to top-ranked maegashira Daieisho.

"Kadoban" ozeki Kirishima was defeated by No. 2 maegashira Gonoyama.

Takakeisho, who narrowly avoided kadoban status in March, lost to No. 2 maegashira Hiradoumi.

Mongolian-born ozeki Hoshoryu lost to rising star No. 1 maegashira Atamifuji.

Sekiwake Wakamotoharu was pushed out by former ozeki Takayasu.

Sekiwake Abi was pulled down by third-ranked maegashira Tobizaru.

The tournament has also been impacted by injuries. No. 6 maegashira Takerufuji, who sensationally won his debut top-flight tournament in March, has been ruled out for the entire meet due to a ligament injury in his right ankle. Komusubi Asanoyama, promoted back to sanyaku after a three-year absence, will also be sidelined for three weeks with a right knee injury.