The May 2026 Grand Sumo tournament is underway, and the banzuke rankings for both Makuuchi and Juryo divisions have been released, showcasing fierce competition and early surprises. In the Makuuchi division, Yokozuna Hoshoryu suffered an early loss, while Ozeki Onosato withdrew midway through Day 2 due to injury. The rankings also reveal rising stars and veteran struggles, with several high-profile matches already drawing attention.
In the Makuuchi division, the top ranks are as follows:
– Yokozuna: East – Hoshoryu (0 wins, 1 loss); West – Onosato (0 wins, 0 losses, 2 absences)
– Ozeki: East – Kotozakura (0 wins, 1 loss); West – Anseiseki (0 wins, 0 losses, 2 absences); Kirishima (1 win, 0 losses)
– Sekiwake: Atamifuji (0 wins, 1 loss); East – Kotoshoho (0 wins, 1 loss)
– Komusubi: East – Wakatakakage (1 win, 0 losses); West – Takayasu (2 wins, 0 losses)
Lower-ranked wrestlers also made headlines. Fujinokawa (1-0), Ichiyamamoto (1-1), Daieisho (2-0), and Kinbozan (2-0) are among those off to strong starts. Meanwhile, veterans like Takakeisho (0-2) and Tamawashi (0-2) are struggling to find their rhythm.

The Juryo division also saw notable performances. Ooyama leads with 2 wins, while Hatsuyama and Asakaio are both undefeated. On the other hand, several wrestlers, including Sadanoumi and Dewanoryu, are still winless.

In news from the second day, Asanoyama suffered a controversial loss after a mono-ii (judges’ conference) overturned his initial win, with officials ruling his heel touched first. “My heel was out first,” Asanoyama admitted after the match, ending his hopes for a winning streak. [
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Meanwhile, a celebrity in pink knitwear caught the attention of fans in the sumo hall, with social media buzzing about her presence and even comparing her to Doraemon. [
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Midorifuji, who missed the entire spring tournament due to heart failure, finally secured his first win after returning. The emotional victory drew widespread congratulations from fans. “He got his first win. Keep going!” one supporter posted. [
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Additionally, Hoshoryu’s intense staredown lasting over 20 seconds sparked commentary from former Yokozuna Takanohana (now Shibatayama Oyakata), who noted that “the gods do not glare.” The extended face-off raised questions about sumo etiquette.