The Japan Sumo Association has decided to suspend No. 5 maegashira Abi, after the 26-year-old recently went against coronavirus protocols by visiting a nightlife establishment. The JSA has banned him from three tournaments and the wrestler will have his salary cut in half for five months.
However, the association decided not to accept Abi's letter of resignation at this time, reserving the right to formally accept it if he causes more problems in the future.
Abi, who belongs to the Shikoroyama stable, visited restaurants where customers were served in a close-contact setting on four occasions, both before and during the July Grand Sumo Tournament, according to the association. He was joined by a 24-year-old rikishi from the same stable. Neither wrestler received permission to leave, as the association had asked all wrestlers to refrain from going out.
Abi reportedly lied to investigators conductors from the association and asked other wrestlers to corroborate his story.
The association said Abi's "nonchalant and thoughtless behavior was totally unacceptable." However, it noted that he showed regret by submitting his letter of resignation, concluding that he "deserves to be suspended."
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