Ex-Yuuma danpatsushiki
Moti Dichne
ex- Juryo ex-Yuuma held his danpatsushiki at the Ryogoku Kokugikan in Tokyo on the 6th, bidding farewell to his 12-year sumo career. In his speech, he reflected on his struggles, saying, "It would be a lie to say that I never gave up," and expressed his gratitude to his mother and supporters who stood by him. He showed his determination to embark on his second life, drawing strength from "manners, gratitude, the importance of perseverance, and human connections."
The full text of his speech is as follows: "Thank you very much for taking the time out of your busy schedules to come to my danpatsushiki today. I am truly happy to have reached this day surrounded by so many people. I grew up in Hirakata City, Osaka Prefecture, and started sumo in the fifth grade of elementary school. At the age of 15, I left home and joined Ounomatsu beya. The world of sumo is tough, and I struggled desperately every day for 12 years. But I was able to continue because of the support of so many people. When I started sumo, I never dreamed that I would reach Juryo and have my danpatsushiki at the Ryogoku Kokugikan. I am deeply grateful to my mother, who supported my sumo career while raising three boys on her own. I caused her a lot of worry and hardship, but thank you so much for continuing to support me until today. My sumo career has never been smooth sailing. I suffered a major injury that caused me to drop out of the banzuke, and I underwent numerous surgeries and rehabilitations. It would be a lie to say that I never lost heart. Nevertheless, I continued to have the desire to return to the dohyo, trained hard, and although I took a roundabout route, I was finally able to fulfill my dream of being promoted to Juryo (2023-2024, three basho: 6-9 at J14E, dropped to Makushita 1W, went back up with a 4-3, then 7-8 and 5-10 at Juryo 13E, and never returned.). I can still remember the joy I felt at that time. However, what made me happier than being promoted to Juryo was the fact that there were people who rejoiced as if it were their own achievement. The existence of all of you who encouraged me when I was in trouble and shared my joy when I was happy is a great support to me and my most irreplaceable treasure. What I learned during my 12 years as a rikishi is that it's not just about winning and losing. The most important things are courtesy, gratitude, perseverance, and human connection. Today I say goodbye to my mage, but I will never forget my gratitude for the days I spent as a rikishi, and I will do my best in the second chapter of my life that is about to begin. Finally, I would like to express my heartfelt gratitude to my Shisho, everyone at the heya, the supporters, my family, friends, and everyone who has supported me up until now. Thank you very much."
