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January (Hatsu) 2012Preview ・ opens Jan 8

January (Hatsu) 2012 preview — Hakuho tops the rating chart

January (Hatsu) 2012 opens on January 8. Yokozuna Hakuho, who won the title at 14-1, goes for back-to-back championships.

Banzuke Notes

Ozeki Baruto went a strong 11-4 last basho and belongs in the title conversation. Ozeki Kotoshogiku went a strong 11-4 last basho and belongs in the title conversation. Ozeki Kotooshu went 9-6 last basho and looks to build on it. Ozeki Harumafuji went 8-7 last basho and looks to build on it. Ozeki Kisenosato went 10-5 last basho and looks to build on it.

In the sanyaku ranks, Miyabiyama moves up to Komusubi after going 11-4 at Maegashira 6; Wakakoyu moves up to Komusubi after going 12-3 at Maegashira 9.

New Faces in Makuuchi

Making their makuuchi debut: Chiyonokuni, Tenkaiho, Kyokushuho, Nionoumi.

Returning to makuuchi: Yoshiazuma, Tosayutaka, Takanoyama.

Title Contenders (Rating)

Hakuho tops the pre-basho ELO chart at 2921. On the numbers, these five headline the title race.

解説 ・ InsightHakuho's rating has slipped from 3033 to 2921 over the year — the chasers have an opening.

A 217-point gap to second place — the data points to Hakuho alone.

Day 1 Bouts to Watch