Grand Champion Harumafuji Retires over Drunken Assault

Dazaifu, Japan, - Nov. 29: Sumo grand champion Harumafuji announces his retirement at a press conference in Dazaifu, southwestern Japan, on Nov. 29, 2017 after admitting to injuring fellow Mongolian wrestler Takanoiwa in a drunken assault in late October. The Mongolian yokozuna -- speaking next to his stablemaster　Isegahama who could not hold back tears -- said in a press conference　held in Fukuoka he was retiring to take responsibility and avoid　damaging the reputation of a top-ranked wrestler. "I take responsibility as a yokozuna for injuring Takanoiwa and　hereby announce my retirement. I offer my apologies to the Japanese　people, the Japan Sumo Association and all those who supported me," Harumafuji said before taking a long bow. "I did it for his sake. I wanted to teach him courtesy and　civility. I scolded him out of my obligation as a senior wrestler but I　hurt him and the sumo association, the fans and my support group," he said. Separate sources said Harumafuji was angered by Takanoiwa attempting to use his smartphone while being scolded for his behavior by yokozuna Hakuho, who was also at the scene. The JSA accepted his resignation letter filed by Isegahama　Wednesday morning, and Harumafuji wrapped up the half hour press conference by reflecting on his successful career that came to a bitter end. "Ever since I crossed the sea at the age of 16, oyakata (stablemaster) and okamisan (stablemaster's wife) took me under their guidance and taught me not to get in people's way. I will always remember that," he said. "I love the country of Japan and the people of Japan. I must say　thank you, thank you, thank you. I love sumo. A sumo wrestler should not only be strong but one who touches people's hearts by offering courage and hope through sumo."