Spring Grand Sumo Champion Takerufuji attends victory parade in his hometown; Wrestler won in Makuuchi Division debut despite ankle injury

AOMORI – Takerufuji, who became the first wrestler in 110 years to win a championship while debuting in the makuuchi division at the Spring Grand Sumo Tournament, took part in a victory parade in his hometown of Goshogawara, Aomori Prefecture, on Wednesday. The champion won despite an injury to his right ankle.

The 25-year-old from the Isegahama stable thanked everyone at a special stage set up in the Kanagi district, where he was born and raised. “I will do my best in my life as a sumo wrestler so that I can see your smiling faces again,” he said.

As Takerufuji left in a convertible with his stable master Isegahama, former yokozuna Asahifuji, residents lined the road and shouted “Thank you” and “Congratulations” one after another. He responded with a big smile and waved at them.

After the parade in the city center, Takerufuji answered questions from the press about participating in the summer tournament, which starts on May 12 at the Ryogoku Kokugikan, saying: “I don’t know yet, but I’m doing what I have to do.”