Thread by @MigClass

Thread of Ura's winning techniques (kimarite) but they get increasingly rare.

He is currently the sole leader in the Natsu basho with a 6-0 record.

First, Katasukashi (under shoulder swing down): 7.78% of Ura's wins (0.95% overall rate for all rikishi).

🧵1/9

Tottari (arm bar throw): 5.09% of Ura's wins (0.19% overall rate)

Once going 2 on 1 he can use his own shoulder as a fulcrum on the arm as he pivots out to throw opponents down.

2/9

Hikkake (arm grabbing force out): 1.8% of Ura's wins (0.17% overall rate)

Probably better known as a wrestling arm drag, Ura uses his opponent's forward pressure against them by reaching across, grabbing behind the triceps, and yanking them forward as he pivots out.

3/9

Ashitori (leg pick): 4.19% of Ura's wins (0.15% overall rate)

A wrestling single leg is actually quite uncommon in sumo but Ura is relatively short at 5'9 and likes to come in low and get underneath larger opponents.

4/9

Zubineri (head pivot throw): 0.3% of Ura's wins (0.03% overall rate)

When Ura won this match in 2023 is was the first time in 25 years this kimarite was used in the top division.

5/9

Tsutaezori (under arm forward body drop): 0.6% of Ura's wins (0.01% overall rate)

It's sort of like doing a fireman's carry where you duck underneath your opponent's underhook and load their body onto your shoulders (different though because your knees can't touch).

6/9

Izori (backwards body drop): 0.3% of Ura's wins (0.01% overall rate)

This is of course very similar to the tsutaezori but I think the only difference is the finish.

7/9

Ushiromotare (backward lean out): 0.3% of Ura's wins (0.01% overall rate)

Rare in sumo because an opponent getting behind you is usually a death sentence, but Ura hit this once from the same position as the tsutaezori and izori.

Footage from

8/9 youtube.com/@dondonsumo2

Tasukizori (outer reverse backwards body drop): 0.3% of Ura's wins (0.01% overall rate)

Similar entry to the tsutaezori and izori but a more slippery finish. Essentially just sliding under and out from an opponent who's leaning over with an underhook and letting them fall.

9/9