More on the Isegahama scandal

[Moti Dichne]

The Kyokai severely criticized the assault by Isegahama Oyakata, stating that "an Oyakata, who is a leader, directly inflicted violence on a disciple." However, considering that the assault was not extremely malicious, that it was a one-off incident and not habitual, and that he promptly reported it himself, the Kyokai decided on a punishment. On the other hand, while the Kyokai recognized Hakunofuji's inappropriate behavior as "a highly undignified act" and "an act that damages the Kyokai's credibility," it imposed a stern warning on him, taking into account that he had no prior disciplinary record and that the victim did not seek punishment. The incident occurred around 3:00 a.m. on February 21st of this year while rikishi and supporters of  Isegahama beya were having a meal in the members' lounge. Hakunofuji engaged in inappropriate behavior, such as touching the thigh of a female acquaintance of a supporter who was also present. At the instruction of his sponsors, Hakunofuji left the restaurant. Isegahama Oyakata, fearing that Hakunofuji was heavily intoxicated and likely to cause further trouble, and also believing that he needed to properly apologize to his sponsors, had him brought back inside. Realizing that further verbal warnings were ineffective and that Hakunofuji would only repeat the same mistake, he punched him once in the left cheek and once in the face with his open hand. Afterwards, Hakunofuji apologized to Isegahama Oyakata. Isegahama Oyakata himself reported the incident to the Kyokai's compliance director on the 23rd. The Kyokai confirmed the facts and conducted an investigation and deliberation by its compliance committee. The Kyokai plans to strengthen the guidance system for Isegahama beya. Isegahama beya will be placed under the guidance and supervision of the Kyokai and the Ichimon with regular checks on the situation. In addition, a collective guidance system will be implemented for the guidance and supervision of the deshi, comprised of four Oyakatas and Isegahama Oyakata, a total of five people.

When the disciplinary action was announced, Isegahama Oyakata commented, "I sincerely apologize for causing trouble and worry to many people with my actions. Violence is never acceptable under any circumstances, and I deeply regret my actions. In the future, I will strictly discipline myself to ensure that such an incident never happens again, and I will sincerely accept the disciplinary action I have received from the Kyokai and strive to regain everyone's trust." The Kyokai reiterated that "it is absolutely unacceptable for an Oyakata to use violence" and indicated its intention to thoroughly prevent recurrence.