PODCAST · sports
Basho Simplified: A Sumo Discussion
by Lewis and Joe
Welcome to "Basho Simplified: A Sumo Discussion," the podcast where two Western sumo enthusiasts dive into the fascinating world of Japanese sumo wrestling. Whether you're a seasoned sumo aficionado or a curious newcomer, join us as we break down the complexities and traditions of Japan's national sport from a fresh, outsider's perspective.We'll explore the latest Basho (sumo tournaments), discuss the strategies and skills of top rikishi (wrestlers), and uncover the rich cultural history behind this ancient sport. With a blend of insightful analysis, lively debates and humour.
Episodes
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Episode 55: Aki Basho 2026 Review
The Aki Basho is in the books, and we're back to break down all the biggest stories from the tournament. Who impressed? Who disappointed? Which rikishi stepped up when it mattered, and who has some serious work to do before the next basho?
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Episode 54: Aki Basho 2026 Preview
The Aki Basho is here, and we're back to preview everything you need to know before the action gets underway! We'll break down the upcoming tournament, look at the big names, the potential dark horses, the matchups we're most excited for, and who could be walking away with the Emperor's Cup. Let...
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Episode 53: Nagoya Basho 2026 Review: Upsets, Injuries & Redemption
The Nagoya Basho is in the books, and there is plenty to unpack. We review the tournament's biggest stories, from Aonishiki's remarkable return to Ozeki and yusho triumph, to Kirishima's Yokozuna bid, Hoshoryu and Onosato's difficult tournaments, and Atamifuji's emergence as a genuine Ozeki...
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Episode 52: Nagoya Basho 2026 Preview - Comebacks, Promotions & Redemption
The Nagoya Basho is here! We break down the biggest storylines heading into the July 2026 tournament, looking at recent form, what we're watching for, and our predictions. With injuries, promotions and plenty of questions to answer, there's a lot to look forward to over the next 15 days.
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Episode 51 – Part 2: The Legend of Chiyonofuji
In Part 2 of our story on Chiyonofuji, we explore the remarkable career of one of sumo's greatest Yokozuna. From years of dominance at the sport's highest level to the legacy he left behind, we look at how the "Wolf" became a legend whose influence can still be felt in sumo today. Join us as we...
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Episode 50: Natsu Basho 2026 Review
The Natsu Basho of 2026 had everything. A Yokozuna withdrawal on Day 2. An Ozeki sliding into kadoban status. Controversial henkas. Rising stars announcing themselves on the biggest stage. And one of the most unpredictable yusho races we've seen in years.
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Episode 49: The Natsu 2026 Chaos Preview
The salt is ready, the clay has been swept, and once again it’s time for the most dangerous part of any basho… two idiots with microphones pretending they understand momentum. This week we preview the May 2026 Grand Sumo Basho, Hōshōryū trying to finally deliver a proper Yokozuna performance,...
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Episode 48: March 2026 Haru Review
The salt has settled, the clay’s been swept, and we’re looking back at a tournament that had everything. Yokozuna drama, Ōzeki heartbreak, surprise runs, questionable decisions, and at least one rikishi who chose violence against the entire concept of expectation. We break it all down in the only...
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Episode 47: English Sumo Nationals 2026
The salt’s down, the family’s gathered, and for the first time ever… we’re doing a basho preview for someone we actually know. This is a surprise episode, because today Lewis steps onto the dohyo for the English Sumo Nationals, his first amateur tournament, and we couldn’t not treat it like the...
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Episode 46: March 2026 Basho Preview
The clay is packed, the salt is ready, and another tournament is about to begin. In this episode we break down the storylines heading into the upcoming basho and look at the rikishi who could shape the next chapter of the sport. We take a close look at the Yokozuna duo of Hōshōryū and Onosato…
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Episode 45 – Part 1: The Rise of Chiyonofuji
In this episode, we take a deep dive into the extraordinary career of Chiyonofuji, one of the most dominant and recognisable Yokozuna in sumo history. From a lightweight prospect battling injuries and doubt to a record-breaking grand champion, we explore how discipline, reinvention, and sheer...
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Episode 44 – Hastu Basho Review
The dust has settled on the dohyo and the January Basho is in the books. In Episode 44, we break down everything that defined the Hatsu tournament, the moments that lived up to the hype, the storylines that surprised us, and the bouts that quietly shifted the balance of power. From statement...
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Episode 43 – January 2026 Basho Preview
A new year, a fresh banzuke, and the first basho of the season is almost upon us. In this episode, we preview the January Basho, breaking down the key storylines heading into the tournament, the rikishi with the most to gain, and the ones already under pressure. From promotion hopes and…
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Episode 42 – Takamiyama: The Pioneer of Modern Sumo
In this episode, we take a deep dive into the remarkable career of Takamiyama, the man who changed sumo forever. From his beginnings in Hawaii to becoming the first foreign-born rikishi to win a top-division yūshō, we explore the struggles, triumphs, and cultural barriers he overcame along the way.
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Episode 41 – The Kyushu Basho Review
The salt has settled, the clay’s been swept, and Kyushu has officially closed the curtain on another wild year of sumo! In this episode, we break down everything that actually happened on the dohyo, the standout performances, the shock upsets, the late-basho surges, and the “what on earth was...
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Episode 40 – Kyushu Basho Preview 2025
The ring has been consecrated one last time for 2025! In this episode, we dive into the final tournament of the year, the Kyushu Basho. With promotion hopes, redemption arcs, and late-year surprises on the line, we break down all the drama, dominance, and dohyo dust from the final showdown of the...
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Episode 39 – Aki Basho Review 2025
The September tournament has wrapped, and what a ride it’s been! In this episode, we break down all the key matches, the biggest surprises, and the stories that defined the Aki Basho. From the drama at the top of the banzuke to the rikishi who fought their way into the spotlight, we look back at...
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Episode 38 – Aki Basho Preview 2025
The dohyo is set, the matchups are looming, and the drama is about to unfold, Aki Basho is here! In this episode, we break down the storylines heading into the September tournament: who’s in form, who’s on the ropes, and who might shock us all.
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Episode 37 – Tochinoshin: The Georgian Powerhouse
In this episode, we dive deep into the story of Tochinoshin, the Georgian titan who won fans worldwide with his sheer strength and unshakable spirit. From his early days on the dohyo to his rise to Ozeki, we revisit the unforgettable bouts, the iconic lifts, the struggles with injuries, and the...
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Episode 36 – Nagoya Basho Review: Heat, Heartbreak, and Heavy Hitters
The sun wasn’t the only thing scorching in Nagoya—this basho brought the fire! In this episode, we dive into all the drama, delight, and dohyo dominance from July’s tournament. From surprise contenders to injuries that shook the banzuke, we break down who rose, who fell, and who left us shouting...
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Episode 35 – July Basho Preview: The Heat is On
The sun’s out, the salt’s flying, and it’s time to gear up for the Nagoya Basho! In this episode, we break down everything you need to know ahead of July’s tournament — who's hot, who's hurt, and who’s just here to make things very interesting.
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Sumo 101: The Yobidashi
Before the wrestlers step onto the dohyo and the gyoji raises his fan, someone has already been hard at work—building the ring, calling the names, beating the drum, and keeping the whole tournament running smoothly. In this Sumo 101 episode, we shine a spotlight on the Yobidashi: the heralds,...
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Episode 34 - Asahifuji: The Calm Before the Dynasty
Step into the ring with Asahifuji—a Yokozuna whose career was marked by quiet strength, technical brilliance, and a reign that often gets overlooked. From his rapid rise through the divisions to the battles that defined his era, we break down what made Asahifuji a force to be reckoned with—and…
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Episode 33 – Harumafuji: The Meteoric Rise and Sudden Fall
In this episode, we take a deep dive into the career of Harumafuji, one of the most dynamic and agile Yokozuna in modern sumo history. From his humble beginnings in Mongolia to his rapid ascent through the ranks, Harumafuji was known for his lightning speed, technique, and fighting spirit despite...
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Episode 32 – May Basho Breakdown: A New Yokozuna Rises
The 2025 Natsu Basho is in the books, and history has been made. In this episode, we break down all the action from a thrilling May tournament that saw the birth of the 75th Yokozuna. From top division clashes to rising stars in the lower ranks, we cover the key moments, upsets, and standout...
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Episode 31: May Basho Preview, The Storm Before the Clash
The stage is set for the Natsu Basho, and the stakes couldn't be higher. With new faces climbing the banzuke, veterans clinging to their ranks, and the yusho race wide open, May promises fireworks on the dohyo. Will the next Yokozuna contender emerge?
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Episode 30: The Rise and Fall of Futahaguro
In this episode, we unravel one of the most infamous sagas in sumo history — the turbulent career of the 60th Yokozuna. From his rapid rise through the ranks to his historic and controversial downfall, we explore how the Japan Sumo Association’s most regretted Yokozuna promotion shook the...
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Episode 29: March Basho 2025 – Triumphs, Surprises, and Heartbreak
The dust has settled, and the March Basho has delivered yet another thrilling tournament full of intense battles, unexpected upsets, and standout performances. In this episode, we break down all the key storylines—from the yusho winner’s path to victory to the wrestlers who exceeded expectations...
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Episode 28: March Basho Preview – High Stakes and Big Questions
With the March Basho just around the corner, excitement is building as the sumo world braces for another thrilling tournament. Will the newly promoted Yokozuna live up to expectations? Which Ozeki are fighting to keep their rank, and who might be on the rise?
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Episode 27: The Rise of Konishiki: Sumo’s First Foreign Ozeki
Konishiki wasn’t just a dominant force in sumo—he was a trailblazer. As the first foreign-born wrestler to reach the rank of Ozeki, he shattered expectations and paved the way for the international rikishi who followed. But his career was also marked by controversy, with speculation over whether…
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Sumo 101: The Yokozuna Rank
The title of Yokozuna is more than just sumo’s highest rank—it is a symbol of strength, honour, and tradition. But what does it truly mean to hold this title? How is a Yokozuna chosen, and what expectations come with the rank? In this episode of Basho Simplified: A Sumo Discussion, we explore the...
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Episode 25: Breaking Down the January 2025 Basho
In this episode of Basho Simplified: A Sumo Discussion, we review all the excitement and drama from the January 2025 Basho—a tournament filled with thrilling upsets, standout performances, and pivotal moments that set the stage for a new era in sumo.
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Episode 24: The Unstoppable Journey of Terunofuji – A Yokozuna’s Legacy
In this special deep dive episode of Basho Simplified: A Sumo Discussion, we celebrate the incredible career of Terunofuji, who recently announced his retirement. From his early days as a promising young rikishi in Mongolia to his rise to sumo’s highest rank, Terunofuji’s journey has been nothing...
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Episode 23: New Year, New Champions? January 2025 Basho and the Yokozuna Debate
In this pre-tournament episode of Basho Simplified: A Sumo Discussion, we look ahead to the first Basho of 2025 and all the excitement it promises to bring. With intense rivalries brewing and top-ranked rikishi poised to make their mark, we analyze the banzuke and discuss the key storylines to...
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Episode 22: The Great Taiho – Part 2: Dominance and Legacy
In the second part of our deep dive into the career of Taiho, we explore the pinnacle of his legendary reign as Yokozuna and the enduring legacy he left behind. Beginning in 1968, Taiho solidified his position as one of the most dominant rikishi in sumo history, adding to his unprecedented yusho...
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Episode 21: The Great Taiho – Part 1: The Rise of a Legend
In the first installment of our two-part deep dive into the career of Taiho, one of sumo’s greatest Yokozuna, we explore the early years of his extraordinary journey. Born Koki Naya in 1940 on Sakhalin Island during a turbulent time in history, Taiho’s path to the dohyo was shaped by resilience,...
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Episode 20: Tamanoumi – A Legacy of Skill and Tragedy
In Episode 20 of Basho Simplified: A Sumo Discussion, we honor the life and career of Tamanoumi, the 51st Yokozuna, whose rise to greatness was as swift as it was unforgettable. Known for his exceptional technique, speed, and strategic brilliance, Tamanoumi captivated the sumo world during his…
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Episode 19: Kotozakura – The 53rd Yokozuna and a Legacy of Strength
In Episode 19 of Basho Simplified: A Sumo Discussion, we journey back in time to explore the remarkable career of Kotozakura, the 53rd Yokozuna. Born in Kurayoshi, Tottori Prefecture, Kotozakura climbed the ranks with sheer grit and unwavering determination, becoming one of the standout rikishi…
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Episode 18: November Basho Breakdown – Triumphs, Surprises, and the Final Standings
In Episode 18 of Basho Simplified: A Sumo Discussion, we unpack all the action from the November basho! From intense bouts and unexpected upsets to the wrestlers who dominated the dohyo, we’ll recap the most thrilling moments of the tournament and reflect on how it all played out. Join us as we...
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Episode 17: November Basho Preview – Discussions, Predictions, and Ones to Watch
In this episode of "Basho Simplified: A Sumo Discussion," we dive into our predictions for the November basho! With fresh rivalries brewing and exciting rikishi set to step into the ring, we’ll break down the wrestlers to watch, our expectations for top contenders, and who might surprise us in…
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Episode 16: Kisenosato - Japan’s Pride and the Journey to Yokozuna
In Episode 16 of "Basho Simplified: A Sumo Discussion," we delve into the remarkable career of Kisenosato, a rikishi whose journey to the top captured the hearts of sumo fans across Japan and beyond. From his early days as a promising up-and-comer to his historic promotion as the first...
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Sumo 101: The Role of the Gyoji
In this special "Sumo 101" episode of "Basho Simplified: A Sumo Discussion," we dive into the fascinating world of the gyoji, the referees of sumo who play a vital role in the ring. More than just officials, gyoji are guardians of tradition, steeped in ceremonial duties and a history as old as…
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Episode 15: Takakeisho – Reflecting on the Career of a Newly Retired Ozeki
In Episode 15 of "Basho Simplified: A Sumo Discussion," we turn our attention to the newly retired Ozeki, Takakeisho. Known for his explosive pushing-thrusting style and fierce competitive spirit, Takakeisho's rise to Ozeki was a testament to his resilience and determination. Join us as we…
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Episode 14: Akebono – The First Foreign Yokozuna
In Episode 14 of "Basho Simplified: A Sumo Discussion," we take a deep dive into the incredible career of Akebono, the first foreign-born rikishi to achieve the rank of Yokozuna. Join us as we explore the journey of this Hawaiian-born powerhouse, from his early struggles in Japan to his historic...
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Episode 13: Wrapping Up the September Basho: Final Thoughts
In Episode 13 of "Basho Simplified: A Sumo Discussion," we break down the thrilling conclusion of the September basho! Join us as we recap the final days of the tournament, spotlighting the most memorable moments, championship-deciding matches, and rikishi who left their mark. We’ll dive into the...
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Episode 12: Mid-September Basho Catch-Up: Surprises, Standouts, and the Road Ahead
In this episode of "Basho Simplified: A Sumo Discussion," we bring you a mid-tournament catch-up on the September Basho! With the action in full swing, we’ll recap the most exciting matches, unexpected upsets, and standout performances that have already defined the first half of the basho. Join…
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Episode 11: The Reign of the GOAT – Hakuho’s Legacy from 2010 Onward (Part 2)
In Part 2 of our deep dive into the legendary career of Hakuho, we pick up in 2010, right as the sumo world faced one of its biggest scandals. Despite the turmoil surrounding the sport, Hakuho emerged stronger than ever, solidifying his reign as the most dominant Yokozuna in history. Join us as…
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Episode 10: The Making of a Legend – Hakuho’s Rise to Yokozuna (Part 1)
In the first part of our deep dive into the career of sumo legend Hakuho, we explore the meteoric rise of a rikishi who would come to redefine the sport. Join us as we trace Hakuho’s journey from his humble beginnings in Mongolia to his early days in the sumo stables of Japan, where his...
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Episode 9: The Rise and Reign of Yokozuna Asashoryu
In Episode 9 of "Basho Simplified: A Sumo Discussion," we’re excited to bring you our first deep dive, focusing on the extraordinary career of one of sumo’s most controversial and dominant figures, Yokozuna Asashoryu. Join us as we explore the life, legacy, and impact of the Mongolian-born…
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Episode 8: Wrapping Up July (Don't bet against the Yokozuna)
In Episode 8 of "Basho Simplified: A Sumo Discussion," we bring you our final reflections on the thrilling conclusion of the July basho. Join us as we analyse the last days of the tournament, celebrate the standout performances, and discuss the dramatic moments that defined this Basho....
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ABOUT THIS SHOW
Welcome to "Basho Simplified: A Sumo Discussion," the podcast where two Western sumo enthusiasts dive into the fascinating world of Japanese sumo wrestling. Whether you're a seasoned sumo aficionado or a curious newcomer, join us as we break down the complexities and traditions of Japan's national sport from a fresh, outsider's perspective.We'll explore the latest Basho (sumo tournaments), discuss the strategies and skills of top rikishi (wrestlers), and uncover the rich cultural history behind this ancient sport. With a blend of insightful analysis, lively debates and humour.
HOSTED BY
Lewis and Joe
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many episodes does Basho Simplified: A Sumo Discussion have?
Basho Simplified: A Sumo Discussion currently has 56 episodes available on PodParley. New episodes are automatically indexed when they're published to the podcast feed.
What is Basho Simplified: A Sumo Discussion about?
Welcome to "Basho Simplified: A Sumo Discussion," the podcast where two Western sumo enthusiasts dive into the fascinating world of Japanese sumo wrestling. Whether you're a seasoned sumo aficionado or a curious newcomer, join us as we break down the complexities and traditions of Japan's national...
How often does Basho Simplified: A Sumo Discussion release new episodes?
Basho Simplified: A Sumo Discussion has 56 episodes. Check the episode list to see recent publication dates and frequency.
Where can I listen to Basho Simplified: A Sumo Discussion?
You can listen to Basho Simplified: A Sumo Discussion on PodParley by clicking any episode. We provide an embedded audio player for direct listening, and you can also subscribe via your preferred podcast app using the RSS feed.
Who hosts Basho Simplified: A Sumo Discussion?
Basho Simplified: A Sumo Discussion is created and hosted by Lewis and Joe.
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