Kotomitsuki Keiji
The integrity of sumo wrestling in Japan has been cast into doubt, after it was revealed that “dozens” of sumo wrestlers have been illegally betting on professional baseball games. In a poll conducted by the Japan Sumo Association, 29 members admitted to gambling on baseball games, while an astonishing 36 members suggested they gambled on games such as mahjong and golf. Allegations that “sumo elders” have also taken to gambling have hit the sport hard, particularly as it’s trying to attract youngsters who are increasingly turning to football or baseball for enjoyment.
In an incident separate to the poll, Kotomitsuki Keiji, who holds the coveted rank of ozeki in the sumo world, has been suspended from taking part in the forthcoming Nagoya Grand Sumo Tournament. Kotomitsuki has admitted to gambling on baseball games and paying gang members $30,000 in an effort to cover up his activities. To make matters worse, it has been alleged Kotomitsuki was placing the bets through a “lucrative gambling racket run by organized crime”.
If you’re a fan of sumo wrestling, make sure to leave a comment with your thoughts about the recent gambling scandal. Will the allegations threaten the future of sumo wrestling, or is Kotomitsuki’s case an incident which the Japan Sumo Association and fans can learn and move on from? Whatever your thoughts on sumo wrestling, we’d love to hear from you
