Sumo Yokozuna Hakuho Withdraws and Stops Renewing Records

Yokozuna Hakuho withdrew from the Autumn Grand Sumo Tournament on Tuesday, citing an injured left knee.

Hakuho, 30, injured his left knee with an inflammation which require 4 weeks of rest and treatment. He originally had a pain on his right foot and he was training with extra care on the right foot. This lead extra stress on his left knee during the fight and training caused this inflammation injury on the knee.

He told the reporters that he cannot even bend his left foot properly. Even if he could fight it will harm the body worse and he doesn't think he can win the fight with the pain.

This is third time after 9 years since 2006 that he is withdrawn and the first time since is became Yokozuna back in 2007. He fought well for the last 8 years without withdrawing in other words which also shows his strength.
This withdraw stops renewing the record of fighting 722 days in raw as a Yokozuna. He is 30 years old age now and he was aiming his 36th title.

There were many of his fan visiting Ryogoku Kokugikan where Sumo competitions are held on the day of the announcement of Yokozuna Hakuho withdrawing. A 60 years old fan speaking to NHK that " I came to see him and it is a very sad news to hear. I want him to have a great rest and recovery. I will be looking forward to seeing him again in the next season."

And another woman said, "It might be a great opportunity for many of other fighters as he has been the best for the past years. It is going to be exciting to see who will come up and be in the seat of Yokozuna. I want Japanese fighters do perform well"

News Source: NHK