Society

Harumafuji to retire from sumo

Nov 29 (NHK) - NHK has learned that Yokozuna Grand Champion Harumafuji is to retire from sumo to take responsibility for assaulting a lower-ranked wrestler.

Sources say Harumafuji will inform the Japan Sumo Association of his decision to retire and hold a news conference on Wednesday.

The yokozuna is being investigated by police after he assaulted Takanoiwa at a lounge bar last month.

The association is also looking into the case and planned to decide on a punishment after its crisis management committee concludes its probe.

But sources say Harumafuji has decided to retire before the association takes action.

He has admitted assaulting Takanoiwa with his hands and a karaoke remote control because he lost his temper over the lower-ranked wrestler's attitude.

He issued an apology on November 14th and withdrew from the Kyushu Grand Sumo Tournament.

The Yokozuna Deliberation Council, an advisory body to the association, held a meeting after the tournament ended on Sunday.

Members of the council called for Harumafuji to be severely punished.

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