I get fairly engrossed in the Grand Sumo Tourneys that come about every two months in Japan. Many might look at the sport and decide that it is odd that two gigantic men would want to crash into each other, the bout being over, generally speaking, in less than a minute. But this would be to gloss over the very real skill and strength of the rikishi. It pays hugely to study the traditions of sumo and the sport itself (as technique and tactics), a study that will most times lead to an enduring if not altogether rational love affair.

We are now in Week 2 of the November Basho in Kyushu. The absence of the mighty champion Hakuho is still being felt, though some the wrestlers may have become emboldened by his retirement. One less certain defeat, perhaps? Watching NHK's broadcast online the other day, the man himself popped up as a guest in the commentary box. I took a screenshot - I couldn't help myself. Elvis may have stopped singing, but he has yet to leave the building.