Isegahama beya mass shikona changes explained

[Moti Dichne]

  Isegahama Oyakata and Hakunofuji (ex-Hakuouhou) each expressed their views on the shikona change from Hakuouhou to Hakunofuji. The rikishi-kai was held on the 24th at the sumo training center inside the Ryogoku Kokugikan. During his retirement ceremony promotion speech (January 31), Isegahama Oyakata explained that eight rikishi from the former Miyagino beya had changed their shikona and added the "Fuji" character, saying, "Once I take them under my wing, they're my disciples. We changed them so that we could all move in the same direction. We all discussed it and decided on it." Regarding Hakunofuji, he mentioned that his name is derived from his birthplace, Tottori Prefecture, also known as "Houki Province," and stated, "I want to include the character 'Haku'." Enhou, who did not change his shikona, reportedly was allowed to keep his shikona as per his own wishes. Hakunofuji said, "I want to spread the name 'Hakunofuji' through my own results. Of course, my Oyakata at Miyagino beya at the time gave me the name 'Hakuouhou', so that's also something I think about. I consulted with my current Oyakata, but ultimately it was my own decision." His kesho- mawashi will have the shikona embroidery corrected in time for Hatsu. His akeni (trunk)i will not be ready in time,so that will continue to bear the name 'Hakuouhou'.