One and only Japan-born sumo champion retires

End of an era: Kisenosato holding a bouquet of flowers after a press conference to announce his retirement at Ryogoku Kokugikan stadium in Tokyo. — AFP

TOKYO: The only Japanese-born grand champion or yokozuna in sumo has decided to retire following a disastrous run of form and injury, leaving two Mongolians on top of the ancient sport.

Kisenosato, the first Japanese-born wrestler to reach the heights of yokozuna since 1998, decided to throw in the towel after three straight losses in the New Year basho or tournament.