Tokai University Judo Club’s Okada wins in previous sumo match Senior Wolf also cheers on junior – Sponichi Sponichi Annex Sports

The pre-sumo tournament for the Kyushu tournament began on the 12th at the Fukuoka International Center.

Okada (22 = Takadagawa Stable) of the prestigious Tokai University Judo Club stepped into the ring for the first time. In Ichiban Sumo, he competed against Deno (16 = Hidenoyama Stable). It hit the head and slammed in hard. He won his first professional victory. At the bottom of the ring after the fight, he hit his left eye and pretended to be concerned about it. Surrounded by reporters, he said with a round face, “The moment I stepped into the ring, the scenery was different.The sense of elation was amazing.”

“There was a physical difference, so I looked at my opponent because he was lower than I expected.The collision went well.It’s only been a little over a week, but I was able to do what I’ve been practicing,” he said, worrying about his left eye. I couldn’t help but smile. When it was his first time in the dohyo, he said with a wry smile, “When I stood up, I noticed that it was a little different. I was surprised when it fell right in front of me.”

After joining the class, he said, “The students in my room are kind, and I have built a good relationship with them.” In particular, Shiratakayama, the 8th member of the Nishi Juryo division, “is teaching me things like how to move my hands and feet together.” He says he is being taken care of. His master, Master Takadagawa, advised him, “Just don’t get hurt.”

Ulf Aron (28), a judo senior who inspired him to take up the sport and a gold medalist in the 100km+ category at the Tokyo Olympics, also rushed to Fukuoka. Unfortunately, tickets were sold out and they were unable to watch the game in person, but they were cheering outside the venue. After watching the recording, he said with a smile on his junior’s sunny face, saying, “I was a little late in getting there, but I saw something really good.” “It’s important to get off to a good start in pre-sumo. I want you to stay relaxed and not get too nervous,” he said, encouraging the wrestlers.

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