Scandal forces Mongolian sumo champ Asashoryu to quit

February 4, 2010 by J!-ENT

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Asashoryu, the Mongolian sumo champion/Yokuzuna and one of the more controversial sumo champions in Japan has faced harsh ridicule after the 29-year-old was drunk and injured a man. Details started to emerge that other people have been hurt by the champion. In 2007, he faced ridicule and a two tournament ban when he left the sport for depression and during a summer tour when he didn’t compete because Asashoryu said he was injured, he went out to play in a soccer match in Mongolia. In 2003, he was disqualified for pulling the hair of a competitor.

Asashoryu said in a press conference translated by Mainichi Daily News, “I am grateful for everything. I will retire. I have caused a lot of trouble in the world. Right now, my head is clear.”