[sumo] News and Mr. Buckton's most recent JT column

[John Racine]

> Sumo fans will judge Asashoryuu by more than what he does on the dohyo,
just as they always have. As has been pointed out on this list, Roho was not
popular, then he punched a reporter confirming the reason for his
popularity, then he apologized and took his suspension with grace and is
respected now more than he was.

I agree that what happens off the dohyo is just as important what happens
during the matches.  I don't agree that an apology will really repair
anything.  I don't respect Roho any more than I used to just because he
apologized and took his suspension like a man.  Of course, the apology was
necessary but it will never fully erase the negative impression that Roho's
behaviour has had on me.  Likewise, Asashoryu's apology is necessary, but
for me at least, it will not be an indicator of some profound change in
personality.  The image of years of bad behaviour and the attitude
manifested therein won't be erased from my mind at least.


The off-dohyo image can work in a positive way for a rikishi as well.  Case
in point:  Takamisakari.  Nothing he does on the dohyo will ever tarnish his
image as a fan favourite.  Even if his performance during matches should
become the worst in sumo history, he will always be admired by some fans as
the loveable clown that he appears to be ringside.

John Racine