Iyozakura Masayuki - 伊予櫻 政行 (born March 20, 1961) is a former Japanese professional sumo wrestler from Masaki, Ehime. He made his debut in March 1976 and last wrestled for Takasago stable. He reached the juryo division in November 1984. His highest rank was juryo 11 and he retired in March 1988.
Career[]
He joined Takasago stable in March 1976 and wrestled under his surname Ichiki. He was promoted to sandanme in November 1977 and makushita in November 1979. After eight years in the lower divisions, he was promoted to juryo in November 1984. Upon reaching the sekitori level, he changed his shikona to "Iyozakura" (伊予櫻). In his juryo debut, he could only manage a 2-13 record and was demoted back to makushita. This proved to be his only tournament as a sekitori.
Retirement from Sumo[]
Iyozakura Masayuki
After his demotion from juryo, Iyozakura remained in the makushita ranks for another three years before announcing his retirement after the March 1988 tournament. After retirement, he has remained in the Japan Sumo Association as a wakaimonogashira, or youth leader. He also does part-time commentary for NHK's lower division coverage.
Fighting Style[]
Iyozakura was a yotsu-sumo wrestler who prefers grappling to pushing and thrusting techniques. He won about majority of his bouts with a straightforward yorikiri, or force out.
Record[]
Division Results[]
- Total: 262-234-16/496 (73 basho)
- Juryo: 2-13/15 (1 basho)
- Makushita: 155-137-16/292 (44 basho)
- Sandanme: 61-51/112 (16 basho)
- Jonidan: 39-31/70 (10 basho)
- Jonokuchi: 5-2/7 (1 basho)
Shikona History[]
- Ichiki Masayuki (1976.03 - 1984.09)
- Iyozakura Masayuki (1984.11 - 1988.03)