The autumn basho of the Grand Sumo Tournament in Tokyo has finished with a very unorthodox run to the line. The final tie-breaking bout was between two sekiwake rikishi, Mitakeumi and Takakeisho. Both have won the title before and unimpeded through the absence of the two yokuzuna, found themselves at 11-3 before proceeedings began yesterday. At the tie-break (12-3 apiece) Mitakeumi overcame the wrecking-ball that is his opponent's tachiai to force him from the ring soon after the bout began.

It was a very interesting tourney all round. There were some curious decisions by the gyoji, a lot of false starts (matta) and excellent performances from some rank and filers, notably Okinoumi and Tsurugisho. Sadly, Georgian Tochinoshin has been demoted to sekiwake, where he will need ten wins in the next meet to regain his ozeki status.

Can't wait. I really enjoy sumo. An acquired taste yes, but once acquired, then one is smitten.