Tokyo, March 23, 2025, The 2025 Haru Basho, held at EDION Arena Osaka from March 9 to 23, concluded with high drama, rising stars, and career milestones. Onosato claimed the Emperor’s Cup after a tense play-off, Takayasu pushed hard, and several rikishi earned special prizes, setting up interesting narratives for the rest of the sumo calendar. Source
Key Highlights
A Playoff Finish for the Yūshō
- Ozeki Onosato won the top division championship (Makuuchi yūshō) by defeating Takayasu in a playoff after the two ended regulation with matching 12-3 records. Source
Outstanding Records & Special Awards
- Takayasu, finishing 12-3, also earned the Gino-shō (Technique Prize). Source
- Fighting Spirit prizes (Kantō-shō) went to Churanoumi (11-4) and Aonishiki (11-4), both showing strong performances well above expectations. Source
- Other division winners included Kusano in Jūryō (14-1) and Oshōryū in Makushita (7-0). Source
Notable Matches & Rising Contenders
- Onosato and Takayasu traded leads during the tournament, with Onosato forcing the playoff by defeating Kotozakura on the final day. Source
- Aonishiki made waves in his top-division debut with 11 wins, showing potential for future elevation. Source
Tournament Structure & Prelude
- As with all honbasho, this tournament comprised 15 days of competition across all divisions, with promotion and demotion (banzuke adjustments) at stake. Source
- EDION Arena in Osaka provided the venue as the Haru (spring) Grand Tournament, a recurring stage for sumo’s top division and lower divisions alike. Source
What This Means for Sumo
Onosato’s victory marks a reaffirmation of his status among the elite, confirming his ability to perform under pressure. Takayasu’s strong showing keeps him in the conversation for further honors. Meanwhile, performances by Churanoumi, Aonishiki and other rising rikishi highlight depth and competitiveness in the Makuuchi division. This basho signals that the sport’s next generation is pushing forward. Source
Final Thoughts
The March 2025 Haru Basho blended tradition with the unexpected: a playoff winner, emerging talents, and special prize performances. Onosato’s win, the surge of newcomers, and the display of technique across the board ensure this tournament will be remembered as one that both celebrated sumo’s hierarchy and hinted at future shifts. Source
