Former Yokozuna Takanohana Discusses the Real Tagonoura and the Tagonoura Stable Today: "It's Only a Matter of Time Before We Get Another Ozeki"
"My guys still have a lot of growing up to do. Especially the sekitori; they really need to rethink their positions." As he said this with a hearty laugh, his demeanor was a vivid flashback to the "fighting general" he once was on the dohyō. Tagonoura-oyakata, formerly the Ozeki Takanohana who engaged in so many legendary bouts, is now pouring that same intense focus into his role as a mentor.
It's been about 20 years since he retired from active competition and took charge of Tagonoura Stable as a stablemaster. In that time, he has fostered numerous sekitori from his stable, building it into an undisputed top-tier heya. In a recent interview, while expressing satisfaction with his trainees' progress, the stablemaster also spoke with the sternness required to aim even higher. Of particular note is the stable's drive to reclaim the "Ozeki" rank, a position he himself once held.
"It's Only a Matter of Time Before We Get Another Ozeki": The Meaning Behind His Words
"To be honest, I think the Ozeki rank is just a stepping stone for them, given their potential. Now, they just need to realize that for themselves and break out of their shells. Their strength is clearly improving." Tagonoura-oyakata stated this with conviction. Although he didn't mention any names, the look in his eyes as he spoke, narrowing slightly with a smile, conveyed a deep-seated trust in the stable's top wrestlers, who have been showing remarkable progress in recent years.
The stablemaster highlighted the following key factors on the road back to Ozeki:
- "Mental Fortitude": The responsibility and self-awareness that come with aiming for Yokozuna.
- "Consistency": The unwavering strength, free of losing records, befitting the Ozeki rank.
- "Encouraging Outside Sparring": Broadening their horizons through interaction with wrestlers from other stables.
Disciples Inheriting the DNA of the "Fighting General" Takanohana
A defining characteristic of the current Tagonoura Stable is its fierce thrusting and pushing sumo, reminiscent of the stablemaster's own active era. The oyakata reminisced, "The kids these days are diligent and faithfully complete the training regimens they're given. But that alone isn't enough. I feel like back when I was competing, I was more... how should I put it... desperately seeking something more, always in motion."
Despite this, the look in his disciples' eyes during daily practice undoubtedly harbors a fighting spirit. "Seeing how far they can grow, without setting limits for themselves – that's my greatest joy now." As he said this, his eyes were not those of the "fighting general" glaring down an opponent on the dohyō, but rather those of a "devoted father figure", watching over their growth with deep affection.
The countdown to the return of an Ozeki has already begun. At the heart of this charge are undoubtedly the wrestlers of Tagonoura Stable, carrying on the spirit of the former Ozeki, Takanohana. We can't afford to take our eyes off the world of Grand Sumo from now on.