Fujiryouga

[Moti Dichne]

Ahead of his first Basho in Nagoya since being promoted to Makuuchi, Fujiryouga, (Maegashira 9E), gave a lecture on the 2nd at the Kozoji Chunichi Culture Center in Kasugai City, Aichi Prefecture, his hometown. 65 sumo fans attended, and the event was so popular that there were 10 people on the waiting list (hmmmm..). He spoke about his impressions after spending two bashos in Makuuchi and his enthusiasm for the Nagoya tournament, where he will be the first rikishi  from Aichi Prefecture to compete in Makuuchi in 13 years, since Tamaasuka (now Ootake Oyakata). Last basho he was in contention for the yusho until his loss to Wakatakakage on the final day, achieving a good record of 10-5. He cited his match against Wakanoshou (Minatogawa) on the second day as his most memorable bout, saying, "It was a long and intense match. Winning it gave me confidence." He said he injured his tooth with a slap from his opponent, and recalled the fierce battle saying, "It still hurts. My front tooth is loose." Looking ahead to the Nagoya tournament, he said, "My left ankle, which I injured in the last tournament, is still not good. I'm in the process of getting it into the best possible condition," but added, "The Nagoya basho is the place I think about the most. I want to do my best so that everyone will think I've grown into a fine rikishi!"