Sumo Wrestler, Asashoryu Suspended, Fined for Playing Soccer

Sumo's top wrestler, yokozuna Asashoryu, got on the wrong side of the Japan Sumo Association and for the first time the top ranked wrestler in Japan's ancient sport has been suspended from participating in tournaments – the next two.

He and his stable master will also be fined 30% of their salaries.

Asashoryu submitted doctor's papers saying he had a fractured lower back and a damaged ligament requiring six weeks to heal. Think of it as a note from your mom so you don't have to go to PE class. Consequently, he couldn't participate in a regional tour.

But…, the Yokozuna then went home to Mongolia and

played in a soccer game.

The guy shouldn't be suspended. He should be applauded for being able to play soccer with a fractured lower back. And who said sumo wrestlers aren't tough?

Somebody else can look forward to winning the next two sumo bashos….perhaps their new Japanese Ozeki…who, if he wins two in a row can get promoted to yokozuna.