Ichinojou interview- part 1

[Moti Dichne]

Ichinojou gave a very, very long interview to Nikkan today, speaking about everything from his coming danpatsushiki to his relationship with his Oyakata. Short summary:

No regrets about retiring. "I got the yusho right before that, right? So no regrets. I hope women will also be among those that cut my hair. Not sure who will do the final cut yet (usually done by the oyakata). Alcohol? Everyone drinks too much when they're socializing once in a while. I was even labeled as an 'alcoholic' in a weekly magazine. But I want my fans to judge for themselves. What's the truth? Even now, I sometimes drink with friends  but we don't drink too much. I'm going to live in Japan and have a second life, so I hope you'll continue to support me.'' At the end of the retirement press conference, the oyakata and Ichinojou turned their backs, and left in different directions,.which was seen as a sign of the feud. Immediately after walking out the door, he said he didn't "have any particular conversations" with his mentor.  According to Minato Oyakata, since the end of Ichinojou's active career, they have only had contact with each other through their lawyers. Even now, there is no direct communication, and the relationship between the two remains distant However, Ichinojou did not mention the feud with his master. "Sumo raised me. Sumo makes you tough, strong, and kind. I am where I am today because I learned a lot through sumo. I still love sumo." When asked about his feelings toward the Oyakata and his wife, he said, ``It's true that they took care of me, and I will never forget my feelings of gratitude." He now has a new goal in life, the hair cutting ceremony, and was smiling as if a weight had been lifted from his chest.