Mongolian sekiwake Kirishima completed a remarkable return to form by claiming the March 2026 basho title with a 12-3 record. Despite losses to ozeki Aonishiki on Day 14 and Kotozakura on the final day, Kirishima had already secured the championship after both maegashira Kotoshoho and yokozuna Hoshoryu were defeated, leaving him with an unassailable two-win lead.
Yokozuna Fall Short
Yokozuna Hoshoryu entered the Spring Tournament as one of the leading title favorites but ultimately fell short in the closing stages, with a crucial Day 14 defeat ending his chances of catching Kirishima. In contrast, fellow yokozuna Onosato’s campaign unraveled much earlier, as he withdrew on Day 4 after an 0-3 start, an unusually poor opening for a grand champion. Hampered by a recurring shoulder injury, Onosato’s early exit removed one of the tournament’s biggest contenders, effectively opening the door for Kirishima to win the tournament.
Aonishiki Stalls as Kotozakura Fades from Contention
Ozeki Aonishiki, after winning the previous tournaments, was widely seen as the man to beat heading into March. However, his performance this tournament never fully gained momentum, with multiple early losses effectively ending his title hopes. He did manage to defeat Kirishima in their pivotal Day 14 bout, but by that point he was no longer in contention for the championship. Despite flashes of his potential, Aonishiki was unable to sustain that level over the course of the tournament.
Ozeki Kotozakura also played a role in the closing stages of the tournament, defeating Kirishima on the final day. However, like Aonishiki, he was unable to mount a consistent title challenge over the 15 days of the tournament.
Looking ahead
With this victory, Kirishima not only secures his third top-division championship but also places himself firmly back in contention for a return to ozeki. Having now recorded the kind of consistent results typically required for promotion, his performance in Osaka may prove to be a turning point in his career. At the same time, ozeki Aonishiki, who entered the tournament on a potential yokozuna run following consecutive titles, has seen his momentum stall, leaving the balance of power at sumo’s second-highest rank suddenly uncertain. As the next tournament approaches, all eyes will be on whether Kirishima can maintain this level and complete his comeback, as the ozeki ranks remain hotly contested.
