Posted at 3:36 p.m., Saturday, November 15, 2003
Musashimaru retires
Associated Press
FUKUOKA, Japan — Grand champion Musashimaru, Wai'anae's Fiamalu Penetani, the most successful foreign-born wrestler in sumo, is retiring after struggling for two years with a wrist injury.The yokozuna managed only three wins against four losses in the current 15-day Kyushu Grand Sumo Tournament. Musashimaru missed all or parts of the previous six tournaments.
Musashimaru was the second foreign wrestler to reach sumo's highest rank after Akebono (Waimanalo's Chad Rowan). No Hawai'i wrestlers remain in Japan's national sport.
Musashimaru, 32, decided to quit after his fourth loss Saturday.
The title of yokozuna is more than a sports achievement it is a mark of honor and its holders are held to very high standards.
"I think he has no regrets," said Musashigawa, his stablemaster and a former yokozuna. "He gave everything he had."
