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Big Boys Do Cry

Sumo wrestler in tears after Japanese association won't let him go home

Posted Aug 11, 2007 4:03 PM CDT

(Newser) – Japan's Sumo Association forbid a Mongolian wrestler from returning home after the ponderous athlete was in tears—diagnosed with a near breakdown. The organization, which suspended defending champion Asashoryu from two tournaments, said it wants the bawling behemoth to seek treatment at a Japanese hospital, against his doctor’s orders that he return to Mongolia.

Asashoryu, who claimed sumo’s highest rank of “yokozuma,” was docked for participating in a charity soccer game after withdrawing from a sumo competition because of a back injury. Asashoryu’s adviser says the 330-pound wrestler cried during their meeting and refuses to visit a hospital. The winner of 21 Emperor’s Cups, Asashoryu is known for his short fuse and bad-boy streak.

[Images (6)]

[Videos (2)]

Mongolian grand champion Asashoryu. (Getty Images)

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Sumo grand champion Asashoryu, of Mongolia. (Getty Images)

Sumo grand champion Asashoryu throws salt as part of a traditional pre-match ritual. (Getty Images)

Asashoryu mugs for the camera. The Sumo grand champion, who was promoted to sumo's highest rank of "yokozuna" in 2003, upset officials by participating in a charity soccer event in his home of Mongolia,... (Getty Images)

"Of course he won't go to Mongolia," said Japan Sumo Association Chairman Kitanoumi. "We want him to get better by going to hospital." Asashoryu, real name Dolgorsuren Dagvadorj, is reportedly near clinical... (Getty Images)

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Asa Suspended For Soccer (johnzeikin (YouTube))

Yokuzana Asashoryu - Aki Basho Sep 2006 (in English) (MongolianWolf (YouTube))

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Big Boys Do Cry