Basho Simplified: A Sumo Discussion

Lewis and Joe
  • 0.0 (0)
  • WRESTLING
  • UPDATED WEEKLY
Basho Simplified: A Sumo Discussion

Welcome to "Basho Simplified: A Sumo Discussion," the podcast where two Western sumo enthusiasts dive into the fascinating world of Japanese sumo wrestling. Whether you're a seasoned sumo aficionado or a curious newcomer, join us as we break down the complexities and traditions of Japan's national sport from a fresh, outsider's perspective. We'll explore the latest Basho (sumo tournaments), discuss the strategies and skills of top rikishi (wrestlers), and uncover the rich cultural history behind this ancient sport. With a blend of insightful analysis, lively debates and humour.

  1. NOV 8

    Episode 17: November Basho Preview – Discussions, Predictions, and Ones to Watch

    In this episode of "Basho Simplified: A Sumo Discussion," we dive into our predictions for the November basho! With fresh rivalries brewing and exciting rikishi set to step into the ring, we’ll break down the wrestlers to watch, our expectations for top contenders, and who might surprise us in this month’s tournament. Join us as we analyze the current rankings, discuss how recent injuries and training might impact each rikishi’s performance, and make our calls on who has the best shot at the yusho. We’ll also share our picks for dark horses, speculate on any potential shake-ups in the sanyaku ranks, and set a friendly wager on our predictions.

    1h 28m

  2. NOV 2

    Episode 16: Kisenosato - Japan’s Pride and the Journey to Yokozuna

    In Episode 16 of "Basho Simplified: A Sumo Discussion," we delve into the remarkable career of Kisenosato, a rikishi whose journey to the top captured the hearts of sumo fans across Japan and beyond. From his early days as a promising up-and-comer to his historic promotion as the first Japanese-born Yokozuna in nearly two decades, Kisenosato’s story is one of resilience, loyalty, and immense national pride. We’ll explore his battles with rivals, his rise through the ranks, and the years of near-misses and hard-won victories that defined his career. Join us as we recount his dramatic yusho wins, the intense expectations he carried as Yokozuna, and his unforgettable rivalry with the legendary Hakuho. We’ll also examine the challenges and injuries that ultimately shaped the twilight of his career and his lasting impact on the sport.

    1h 41m

  3. OCT 26

    Sumo 101: The Role of the Gyoji

    In this special "Sumo 101" episode of "Basho Simplified: A Sumo Discussion," we dive into the fascinating world of the gyoji, the referees of sumo who play a vital role in the ring. More than just officials, gyoji are guardians of tradition, steeped in ceremonial duties and a history as old as sumo itself.

    1h 51m

  4. OCT 1

    Episode 15: Takakeisho – Reflecting on the Career of a Newly Retired Ozeki

    In Episode 15 of "Basho Simplified: A Sumo Discussion," we turn our attention to the newly retired Ozeki, Takakeisho. Known for his explosive pushing-thrusting style and fierce competitive spirit, Takakeisho's rise to Ozeki was a testament to his resilience and determination. Join us as we explore the highs and lows of his career, from his meteoric rise through the ranks to his battles with injuries that ultimately shaped his journey. We’ll reflect on Takakeisho’s most memorable matches, his path to multiple yusho wins, and the challenges he faced in reaching (and maintaining) sumo’s second-highest rank.

    1h 45m

  5. SEP 25

    Episode 14: Akebono – The First Foreign Yokozuna

    In Episode 14 of "Basho Simplified: A Sumo Discussion," we take a deep dive into the incredible career of Akebono, the first foreign-born rikishi to achieve the rank of Yokozuna. Join us as we explore the journey of this Hawaiian-born powerhouse, from his early struggles in Japan to his historic rise to the top of the sumo world. We’ll discuss Akebono’s unique style, his most iconic matches, and the fierce rivalries that defined his career. Beyond the dohyo, we’ll also delve into Akebono's surprising post-sumo career, which saw him transition into unexpected fields such as professional wrestling and MMA. His decision to pursue new challenges after retiring from sumo added another layer to his already fascinating legacy.

    1h 54m

  6. SEP 23

    Episode 13: Wrapping Up the September Basho: Final Thoughts

    In Episode 13 of "Basho Simplified: A Sumo Discussion," we break down the thrilling conclusion of the September basho! Join us as we recap the final days of the tournament, spotlighting the most memorable moments, championship-deciding matches, and rikishi who left their mark. We’ll dive into the standout performances, from unexpected dark horses to the top contenders, and analyse how the basho’s outcomes could impact the sumo landscape going forward. Did our predictions pan out, and who emerged victorious in the race for the yusho?

    1h 32m

  7. SEP 17

    Episode 12: Mid-September Basho Catch-Up: Surprises, Standouts, and the Road Ahead

    In this episode of "Basho Simplified: A Sumo Discussion," we bring you a mid-tournament catch-up on the September Basho! With the action in full swing, we’ll recap the most exciting matches, unexpected upsets, and standout performances that have already defined the first half of the basho. Join us as we analyze the form of the top rikishi, the emerging storylines, and the wrestlers making waves this tournament. Who’s exceeding expectations, who’s struggling, and what can we expect as we head into the final days? We’ll share our predictions for the second half and look at how the competition is shaping up.

    1h 17m

  8. SEP 11

    Episode 11: The Reign of the GOAT – Hakuho’s Legacy from 2010 Onward (Part 2)

    In Part 2 of our deep dive into the legendary career of Hakuho, we pick up in 2010, right as the sumo world faced one of its biggest scandals. Despite the turmoil surrounding the sport, Hakuho emerged stronger than ever, solidifying his reign as the most dominant Yokozuna in history. Join us as we discuss Hakuho’s unparalleled run throughout the 2010s—breaking records, setting new standards, and becoming the undisputed Greatest of All Time. We’ll explore his triumphs, the challenges he faced, and how he continually adapted his style to remain untouchable in the ring. We’ll also delve into his role as a leader, mentor, and ambassador for sumo, even as he dealt with injuries and the shifting landscape of the sport.

    2h 36m
See All (19)

About

Welcome to "Basho Simplified: A Sumo Discussion," the podcast where two Western sumo enthusiasts dive into the fascinating world of Japanese sumo wrestling. Whether you're a seasoned sumo aficionado or a curious newcomer, join us as we break down the complexities and traditions of Japan's national sport from a fresh, outsider's perspective. We'll explore the latest Basho (sumo tournaments), discuss the strategies and skills of top rikishi (wrestlers), and uncover the rich cultural history behind this ancient sport. With a blend of insightful analysis, lively debates and humour.

Information

You Might Also Like

  • Before the Salt Throw - Sumo Podcast
    Sports
    Sports

    Updated Bimonthly

  • Sumo Kaboom
    Sports
    Sports

    Updated Weekly

  • Sumo Mainichi
    Sports
    Sports

    Updated Weekly

To listen to explicit episodes, sign in.

Stay up to date with this show

Sign in or sign up to follow shows, save episodes, and get the latest updates.
Select a country or region

Africa, Middle East, and India

Asia Pacific

Europe

Latin America and the Caribbean

The United States and Canada