Midorifuji

[Moti Dichne]

Juryo Midorifuji,  who missed the entire Haru Basho and Haru Jungyo due to heart problems, attended the rijikai held at Ryogoku Kokugikan in Tokyo today. When asked about his chances of competing in Natsu, he replied, "I'll be there," showing a positive attitude toward his return. He said that at one point he had lost about 10 kilograms. He explained, "My heart itself wasn't bad, but it was caused by excessive drinking and high blood pressure." He is continuing medication and has reduced his salt intake. Today, he resumed sumo training at his heya in Sumida Ward, Tokyo. After four bouts with the top-ranked wrestlers, he said, "I was completely defeated. I'll gradually improve my condition."