TOKYO WRESTLERS READY FOR MATCHES
East and West Change Sides for Evening Up Strength; Osaka Also Makes Program
The program of the Tokyo wrestlers for the spring
of 1923 was published on January 5. The matches last autumn were in favour
of the west side, and, as a result the east and the west changed sides.
On the new east side, Ohnishiki and Tochigiyama
changed places, and Tsunenohana and Onosato remained stationary, as expected.
Shinonome, who has four victories on the right side, was moved up to the
position of komusubi, or the third first-grade champion. Whether he can
hold this position in the next matches, remains to be seen.
Some Readjustments Made
On the west side, Chibagasaki was restored to the
position of ozeki, or first of the first grade. He had held that position
for some time, but was degraded on account of his poor showings. His restoration
to such a position of honour, on the strength of fair records last autumn,
is criticized by some followers of the sport. The promotion of Tachihikari
to komusubi, ahead of Kuragatake, is due to exertion.
The program as a whole is drawn up very fairly,
and both sides are believed to be evenly matched in strength. Lively contests
are generally expected in the spring meeting.
The program of Osaka wrestlers was announced at
noon, January 5.