{{short description|Mongolian sumo wrestler}} {{Family name hatnote|Lkhagvasuren|Byambachu|lang=Mongolian}} {{hatnote|In this Japanese shikona name, the surname is Kirishima.}} {{Infobox sumo wrestler | image = Kiribayama Tetsuo20230514.jpg | caption = Kirishima in 2023 | native_name = 霧島 鐵力 | name = Kirishima Tetsuo | birth_name = Byambachuluun Lkhagvasuren | birth_date = {{birth date and age|1996|4|24}} | birth_place = Dornod, Mongolia | height = {{height|meters=1.86}} | weight = {{convert|150|kg|lb st|abbr=on}} | heya = Michinoku → Otowayama | university = | rank = Ōzeki <!--see below--> | record = | debut = May 2015 | highestrank = Ōzeki (July 2023) | retireddate = | yushos = 3 (Makuuchi)<br>1 (Makushita)<br>1 (Sandanme) | prizes = {{ubl|4 (Fighting Spirit) |1 (Outstanding Performance) |4 (Technique)}} | goldstars = | update = March 25, 2026 }}
{{nihongo|'''Kirishima Tetsuo'''|霧島 鐵力||born April 24, 1996, as '''Byambachuluun Lkhagvasuren''' ({{langx|mn|Бямбачулуун Лхагвасүрэн}}{{MongolUnicode|ᠪᠢᠮᠪᠠᠴᠢᠯᠠᠭᠤᠨ<br/>ᠪ<br/>ᡀᠠᠭᠪᠠᠰᠦᠶᠷᠦᠡᠭ᠌|v}})|lead=yes}} is a Mongolian professional sumo wrestler. He made his debut in March 2015 representing Michinoku stable under the name {{nihongo|'''Kiribayama Tetsuo'''|霧馬山鐵雄}}, and reached the top {{translit|ja|makuuchi}} division in January 2020. He wrestles for Otowayama stable, where he moved to in April 2024 following the closure of Michinoku stable. His highest rank has been {{translit|ja|ōzeki}}, a rank he had lost in July 2024 but reclaimed in March 2026. He has won the {{translit|ja|makuuchi}} championship three times along with two runner-up performances and nine special prizes in his career to date.
Upon his first promotion to {{translit|ja|ōzeki}} in May 2023, Kirishima changed his ring name from Kiribayama, adopting the ring name of his then-stablemaster Michinoku (former {{translit|ja|ōzeki}} Kirishima).<ref name=shikona>{{cite web |url=https://www.nikkansports.com/battle/sumo/news/202305310000246.html|title=大関昇進の霧馬山が「霧島」に改名、師匠のしこ名を継ぐ 下の名も改名で「霧島鐵力」|date=31 May 2023|publisher=Nikkan Sports|access-date=31 May 2023}}</ref>
==Early life== Lkhagvasuren was born into a nomadic community in Dornod Province, near the border between China and Russia. His name is a reference to his grandfather, Yatamsuren, who was a renowned {{translit|mn|bökh}} wrestler.<ref name="intro1">{{cite web |url=https://hochi.news/articles/20230529-OHT1T51208.html?page=1|title=【霧馬山の素顔１】羊やラクダ１５００頭と駆け回り足腰鍛えたモンゴル大草原…陸奥親方が惚れたひたむきな姿勢|date=30 May 2023|publisher=Sports Hochi|language=ja|access-date=28 July 2023}}</ref> His father was in charge of a vast herd of sheep, and from a young age, Lkhagvasuren rode horses to help his father at work, which strengthened his legs and waist – an advantage for sumo.<ref name="intro1"/> He eventually moved to Ulaanbaatar and began practicing judo and {{translit|mn|bökh}} in a club, where he was joined later by future {{translit|ja|Yokozuna}} Hōshōryū.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://hochi.news/articles/20230724-OHT1T51211.html?page=1|title=豊昇龍「相撲は絶対やりたくなかった。力士はデカくて怖かったですもん」レスリングに熱中…モンゴルでの原点|language=ja |date=25 July 2023 |work=Sports Hochi|access-date=25 July 2023}}</ref> In 2014, he was invited by an acquaintance along with four other Mongolians to Japan to try out sumo at Michinoku stable with no previous experience of the sport.<ref name="intro2">{{cite web |url=https://www.sponichi.co.jp/sports/news/2023/05/30/kiji/20230530s00005000018000c.html|title=霧馬山 日本人の3倍!?遊牧生活で培った回復力 専門の医師すら驚く治癒能力|date=30 May 2023|publisher=Sports Nippon|language=ja|access-date=28 July 2023}}</ref> At that time, he was over {{height|m=1.80}} tall, but weighed less than {{convert|70|kg|lb|abbr=on}}. Michinoku stablemaster, former {{translit|ja|ōzeki}} Kirishima, thought Lkhagvasuren was the best of the five, but was reluctant at first to take on a foreign recruit.<ref name="tokyopromo">{{cite web |url=https://www.tokyo-np.co.jp/article/253164|title=相撲未経験だった霧馬山 それでも師匠は「黙っていても幕内、三役にいく」と確信した |date=30 May 2023|publisher=Tokyo Shimbun|language=ja|access-date=28 July 2023}}</ref> The stable had not had a foreigner since Hakuba was forced to retire over match-fixing allegations in 2011. He eventually relented after Lkhagvasuren committed to staying in Japan, and let him take the new recruits examination in February 2015.<ref name="intro2"/> As he entered his stable, his slight stature drew a comment from a {{translit|ja|wakaimonogashira}} in his stable, who commented that he would be too thin to hold his own in sumo.<ref name="jiji">{{cite web |url=https://www.jiji.com/jc/v2?id=2017sumo_hope_27|title=霧馬山 けがを転機に、凱旋を励みに|publisher=Jiji Press Agency|language=ja|access-date=28 July 2023}}</ref><ref name="dailysports">{{cite web |url=https://www.daily.co.jp/opinion-d/2017/09/01/0010511379.shtml|title=【スポーツ】大相撲にモンゴルの超新星霧馬山 目指すは朝青龍のような横綱|work=Daily Sports|language=ja|date=1 September 2017|access-date=28 July 2023}}</ref>
Lkhagvasuren received the shikona, or ring name, {{nihongo|'''Kiribayama'''|霧馬山}} to evoke his master, with the kanji 霧 derived from his former wrestling name, {{nihongo|Kirishima|霧島}}, his nomadic past with the kanji 馬, for 'horse', and finally the kanji 山 to evoke {{translit|ja|yokozuna}} Futabayama, a great wrestler who belonged to the same {{translit|ja|ichimon}}, or clan, as his stable.<ref name="tokyopromo"/>
==Sumo beginnings== He officially began his career in May 2015. At the time, he was in the same class as Homarenishiki, the first Canadian sumo wrestler ({{translit|ja|rikishi}}) in 30 years.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.nikkansports.com/battle/sumo/news/1478061.html|title=新序出世力士は浜町、誉錦ら14人|date=17 May 2015|work=Nikkan Sports|language=ja|access-date=28 July 2023}}</ref> During the first years of his stable life, he had difficulty adapting, mastering very little of the language and mentioning his lack of sleep when his stablemates snored too loudly in the stable dormitory.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.nikkansports.com/battle/sumo/news/1568659.html|title=15歳まで遊牧民の霧馬山が三段目Ｖ「緊張した」|date=20 November 2015|work=Nikkan Sports|language=ja|access-date=28 July 2023}}</ref><ref name="jiji"/> During his debut in {{translit|ja|maezumō}}, he faced Chiyonoumi (then called Hamamachi), a former vice-captain of Nippon Sport Science University sumo club, with whom he shared the same debut promotion.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.nikkansports.com/battle/sumo/news/202305310001607.html|title=大関霧島が誕生した日、同期の千代の海が2年ぶりに関取復帰「新十両の時よりうれしい」|date=1 June 2023|work=Nikkan Sports|language=ja|access-date=28 July 2023}}</ref> Hamamachi handed him his only defeat in four matches to determine his future position in the {{translit|ja|jonokuchi}} division. In his first match in this division, he lost again to Hamamachi, who won the tournament that year, but finished with a score of {{Win-loss record|w=5|l=2}}, securing promotion to the next division. In {{translit|ja|jonidan}}, he was among the wrestlers competing for the championship ({{translit|ja|yūshō}}), but was nevertheless beaten by Sakae, who then lost in the playoff to Hamamachi, during the last day of competition. However, his {{Win-loss record|w=6|l=1}} score allowed him to enter sumo's third division, {{translit|ja|sandanme}}, for the November 2015 tournament. There, he won the tournament with a perfect score of {{Win-loss record|w=7|l=0}}.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.nikkansports.com/battle/sumo/news/1568969.html|title=三段目優勝の霧馬山は16歳までゲルで育った遊牧民|date=21 November 2015|work=Nikkan Sports|language=ja|access-date=28 July 2023}}</ref> Logically promoted to the ''makushita'' division for the January 2016 tournament, he nevertheless suffered the first negative record (''make-koshi'') of his career and was demoted back to the ''sandanme'' division. He was promoted back to ''makushita'' for the Nagoya tournament, but suffered a left knee ligament injury during a practice session and had to withdraw from the tournament (''kyūjō''), and was demoted back to the lower division.<ref name="jiji"/> Following this injury, Kiribayama gradually changed his fighting style, moving from an overuse of throwing techniques and back-dropping techniques to a style based more on forward momentum.<ref name="jiji"/> At the time of his injury, he was also suffering from severe homesickness, but thanks to his master's efforts he hung on, motivated in particular by the prospect of returning to his homeland for a visit in the event of promotion to ''jūryō''.<ref name="jiji"/> In November 2017, he was competing for the makushita division championship but failed after being defeated by former ''jūryō'' wrestler {{Interlanguage link|Tochihiryū Yukiya|ja|3=栃飛龍幸也|lt=Tochihiryū}} on the final day.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.nikkansports.com/battle/sumo/news/201711240000539.html|title=栃飛龍が幕下初優勝、来年初場所での十両復帰確実|date=24 November 2017|work=Nikkan Sports|language=ja|access-date=28 July 2023}}</ref> However, he bounced back the following year by winning the championship at the May tournament, despite injuring his elbow during a training session.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.nikkansports.com/battle/sumo/news/201901210000797.html|title=霧馬山が幕下Ｖ ヒジ負傷も全勝「前に前に攻めた」|date=25 May 2018|work=Nikkan Sports|language=ja|access-date=28 July 2023}}</ref> thumb|Original ''tegata'' (handprint and autograph) of Kiribayama
===''Jūryō'' promotion=== In March 2019, Kiribayama was finally promoted to the ''jūryō'' division after a {{Win-loss record|w=4|l=3}} record at ''Makushita'' 1. It took him four years in total to reach the ''sekitori'' ranks from his professional debut. He was the first new ''sekitori'' Michinoku stable had produced since Kirinowaka in January 2008.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.nikkansports.com/battle/sumo/news/201805250000507.html|title=霧馬山「最高っす」陸奥部屋11年ぶり新十両見えた|date=21 January 2019|work=Nikkan Sports|language=ja|access-date=28 July 2023}}</ref> He shared his promotion with another future ''san'yaku'' wrestler, Wakamotoharu.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.sponichi.co.jp/sports/news/2019/01/30/kiji/20190130s00005000138000c.html|title=新十両に霧馬山＆若元春 貴ノ富士１年ぶり十両返り咲き、再び"双子関取"に|date=30 January 2019|publisher=Sports Nippon|language=ja|access-date=28 July 2023}}</ref> During promotional interviews he spoke of his desire to fight with a black ''shimekomi'', in order to evoke {{translit|ja|yokozuna}} Harumafuji.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.sponichi.co.jp/sports/news/2019/01/31/kiji/20190130s00005000373000c.html|title=霧馬山 家族へ恩返しを 目標は元・日馬、黒色締め込みで気合だ！|date=31 January 2019|publisher=Sports Nippon|language=ja|access-date=28 July 2023}}</ref> As part of his promotion, he also received a partnership with a jewellery brand that had already supported his master when he was active. The brand offered him a ''keshō-mawashi'' representing a black parrot.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.nikkansports.com/battle/sumo/news/201905070000683.html|title=十両霧馬山に伊ジュエリーブランドから化粧まわし|date=7 May 2019|work=Nikkan Sports|language=ja|access-date=28 July 2023}}</ref> Kirishima moved through the ''jūryō'' division in just five tournaments.<ref name="gunning0109">{{cite web|url=https://www.japantimes.co.jp/sports/2020/01/09/sumo/new-year-basho-provides-intriguing-mix-storylines/#.XsPZ2-SWyUk|title=New Year Basho provides intriguing mix of storylines|last=Gunning|first=John|date=9 January 2020|work=Japan Times|access-date=19 May 2020}}</ref> His fellow Mongolian, ''Yokozuna'' Kakuryū, became his stablemate in October 2019 when Izutsu stable closed.<ref name="gunning0109"/> Kiribayama mentions this transfer as having been particularly beneficial for him because, although he was initially anxious at the idea of training with the ''yokozuna'', he benefited from a great deal of advice from Kakuryū.<ref name="hochijuryo">{{cite web |url=https://hochi.news/articles/20191205-OHT1T50138.html?page=1|title=十両・霧馬山が鶴竜とぶつかり稽古|date=5 December 2019|publisher=Sports Hochi|language=ja|access-date=28 July 2023}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.chunichi.co.jp/article/85901|title=霧馬山、鶴竜と三番稽古！ 「同じ部屋になってよかった」 「テラハ」で日本語も勉強中|date=8 July 2020|publisher=Chunichi Sports|language=ja|access-date=28 July 2023}}</ref> He also expressed his desire to be ''tsuyuharai'' at Kakuryū's ring-entering ceremony if he managed to be promoted to ''makuuchi''.<ref name="hochijuryo"/> In November of the same year, he took part in a four-way playoff for the ''jūryō'' championship along Ikioi, Kaisei and Azumaryū.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.nikkansports.com/battle/sumo/news/201911240000615.html|title=東龍が十両V ４人トーナメントで勢、魁聖に勝利|date=24 November 2019|work=Nikkan Sports|language=ja|access-date=28 July 2023}}</ref> Although he lost to Kaisei, his {{Win-loss record|w=11|l=4}} record secured his promotion to sumo's top division, making him the first to be promoted to the rank of ''maegashira'' in his stable since Hakuba in May 2008.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.sankei.com/article/20191224-MNU7RJJOBBP2LNUK3MEDAD5V6E/|title=新入幕は霧馬山 再入幕５人 大相撲初場所の新番付|date=24 December 2019|work=Sankei Shimbun|language=ja|access-date=28 July 2023}}</ref>
==''Makuuchi''== ===Promotion and early career=== In preparation for his tournament, he showed encouraging signs in training, having defeated 4-year ''makuuchi''-veteran Shōdai, and revealed that he would indeed serve as an assistant to Kakuryū's ring-entering ceremony.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://mainichi.jp/articles/20200109/k00/00m/050/172000c|title=新入幕の霧馬山「体がよく動いた」2桁勝利めざす 鶴竜「もちろん出場する」|date=9 January 2020|url-access=subscription|publisher=Mainichi Shimbun|language=ja|access-date=28 July 2023}}</ref> Before the tournament, he also received a ''keshō-mawashi'' from Nestlé Japan as part of a partnership with his stable.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.sanspo.com/article/20200109-MX3OFEHHDVJNDLOC64NASO2Y3I/|title=新入幕・霧馬山にネスレ日本から化粧まわし！「ネスカフェ 原宿」で「陸奥部屋 ちゃんこ鍋」販売|date=9 January 2020|publisher=Sankei Sports|language=ja|access-date=28 July 2023}}</ref> In his debut top ''makuuchi'' division tournament in January 2020, he began the tournament with mixed results, having won his first match against Kaisei,<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.sponichi.co.jp/sports/news/2020/01/12/kiji/20200112s00005000243000c.html|title=新入幕・霧馬山 横綱土俵入りで露払い「歓声が凄かった」初日もサーカス相撲で飾る|date=12 January 2020|publisher=Sports Nippon|language=ja|access-date=28 July 2023}}</ref> but failed against Kotonowaka, who was still in ''jūryō'', on the following day. From Day 8 onwards, he won against Kotoekō and went on to win his 7 last matches in a row; finishing the tournament with 11 wins to 4 losses and being awarded the Fighting Spirit special prize for his performance.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.nikkansports.com/battle/sumo/news/202001260000443.html|title=敢闘賞の霧馬山11勝目「やったなと」来日から５年|date=26 January 2020|publisher=Nikkan Sports|language=ja|access-date=28 July 2023}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/backstories/852/|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220209161442/https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/backstories/852/|url-status=dead|archive-date=February 9, 2022|title=Expecting the unexpected at the 2020 New Year Tournament|last=Morita|first=Hiro|date=30 January 2020|work=NHK World|access-date=18 May 2020}}</ref> In March, he stood at only four wins against six losses after Day 10, but won his last five matches to secure a {{Win-loss record|w=9|l=6}} record and promotion to a new highest rank of ''Maegashira'' 3 for the next tournament, which was originally scheduled for May but actually took place in July. He withdrew on Day 10 of the September 2020 tournament with a shoulder injury,<ref>{{cite web|url=https://mainichi.jp/english/articles/20200922/p2g/00m/0sp/122000c|title=Sumo: Ozeki Takakeisho stays among joint leaders at Autumn meet|date=22 September 2020|work=The Mainichi|access-date=23 September 2020}}</ref> but returned from Day 13 to secure a winning record of {{Win-loss record|w=9|l=4|a=2}}.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.japantimes.co.jp/sports/2020/09/27/sumo/basho-reports/shodai-first-title-autumn-basho/|title=Shodai clinches first-ever title at Autumn Basho|date=27 September 2020|work=Japan Times|access-date=28 September 2020}}</ref> In September of the following year, Kiribayama set a personal record by scoring 4 consecutive victories for the first time in ''makuuchi'', beating ''Komusubi'' Ichinojō in an unusually long match.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.asahi.com/articles/ASP9H7562P9HUTQP00X.html|title=遊牧民出身の霧馬山 水くみ、乗馬で鍛えた体 自身初の４連勝発進|date=16 September 2021|publisher=Asahi Shimbun|language=ja|access-date=28 July 2023}}</ref>
Kiribayama was promoted to ''komusubi'' for the November 2021 tournament, the first Mongolian to debut in ''san'yaku'' since Tamawashi and Terunofuji in March 2015.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://mainichi.jp/english/articles/20211101/p2g/00m/0sp/084000c|title=Sumo: Terunofuji leads way into new era without Hakuho|date=1 November 2021|work=The Mainichi|access-date=1 November 2021}}</ref> He managed only six wins against nine losses in this tournament, and returned to the ''maegashira'' ranks.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://japan-forward.com/sumo-yokozuna-terunofuji-looking-to-make-it-3-in-a-row-at-new-year-basho/|title=Sumo: Yokozuna Terunofuji Looking to Make it 3 in a Row at New Year Basho|date=7 January 2022|work=Japan Forward|access-date=19 May 2022}}</ref> He was promoted to ''komusubi'' again following the July 2022 tournament, and maintained his rank for the next three tournaments. In January 2023 he was runner-up with an {{Win-loss record|w=11|l=4}} record and was awarded his first Technique Prize.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://english.kyodonews.net/news/2023/01/8073b8017eb1-sumo-lone-ozeki-takakeisho-wins-new-year-meet-3rd-emperors-cup.html|title=Sumo: Lone ozeki Takakeisho wins New Year meet, 3rd Emperor's Cup|date=22 January 2023|work=Kyodo News|access-date=23 January 2023}}</ref> He would be promoted to ''sekiwake'' for the next tournament in March.
In March 2022, Kiribayama had a good tournament, beating the newly promoted ''Ōzeki'' Mitakeumi on the fifth day, inflicting his first defeat since his promotion.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.chunichi.co.jp/article/436517|title=全勝の御嶽海を撃破！私以外で霧馬山の素質を見抜いた解説者はいただろうか【北の富士コラム】|date=18 March 2022|publisher=Chunichi Sports|language=ja|access-date=28 July 2023}}</ref> In July of the same year, former ''yokozuna'' Kitanofuji published a letter to the editor in ''Chunichi Sports'' in which he congratulated Wakatakakage and Kiribayama on their match, which took place on Day 6. Although Wakatakakage won the match by ''yoritaoshi'', Kitanofuji praised their stamina and power, even comparing the match to the legendary clashes between ''Yokozuna'' Tochinishiki and Wakanohana I.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.chunichi.co.jp/article/509017|title=【北の富士コラム】若隆景と霧馬山。まるで昔の栃錦と若乃花を見ているようだ。これこそ大相撲である|date=16 July 2022|publisher=Chunichi Sports|language=ja|access-date=28 July 2023}}</ref>
In March 2023, he entered the final day of the tournament one win behind the leader and his next opponent, ''Komusubi'' Daieishō. Kiribayama was also competing on one day's rest after his Day 14 opponent, Wakatakakage, defaulted due to injury. In their scheduled contest, Kiribayama was able to repel Daieishō's charge and score the win by ''tsukitaoshi'' ('thrust down'). With their records equalized at {{Win-loss record|w=12|l=3}}, the two had to face off again to determine the ''makuuchi'' champion. In the playoff, Kiribayama used the same thrust down technique to defeat Daieishō. Kiribayama's first top-division championship was confirmed after the ringside judges agreed in a ''mono-ii'' that Daieishō touched the ground before Kiribayama stepped out of the ''dohyō''. After receiving the Emperor's Cup, Kiribayama said that he didn't understand anything that was going on when he entered sumo in 2015, but "somehow, eight years later, I've made it this far." He was awarded his second Technique prize for his efforts.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://english.kyodonews.net/news/2023/03/8e8134ea7f4b-sumo-kiribayama-beats-daieisho-in-playoff-to-claim-spring-tourney.html|title=Sumo: Kiribayama beats Daieisho in playoff to claim Spring tourney|date=26 March 2023 |publisher=Kyodo News|access-date=26 March 2023}}</ref> The following day Kiribayama, who became the ninth top-division champion from Mongolia, said that winning the ''yūshō'' was the best feeling, but that he would start focusing on the next tournament. Having won 23 contests in his last two tournaments, Kiribayama would likely be considered for promotion to sumo's second-highest rank of ''ōzeki'' by winning at least 10 matches in the May 2023 tournament.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://english.kyodonews.net/news/2023/03/a4618b321c37-sumo-spring-champion-kiribayama-shifts-focus-to-ozeki-promotion-bid.html|title=Sumo: Spring champion Kiribayama shifts focus to ozeki promotion bid|date=27 March 2023 |publisher=Kyodo News|access-date=27 March 2023}}</ref>
===''Ōzeki'' promotion and name change=== In the May 2023 tournament, Kiribayama secured the required tenth win with a victory over then-current ''ōzeki'' Takakeishō.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://english.kyodonews.net/news/2023/05/bd35a66c7c4d-sumo-terunofuji-moves-back-into-sole-lead-as-asanoyama-stumbles.html |title=Sumo: Terunofuji moves back into the sole lead as Asanoyama stumbles|date=25 May 2023|publisher=Kyodo News|access-date=25 May 2023|quote=March champion Kiribayama (10-2) stayed in the title race and all but guaranteed his promotion from sekiwake to ozeki by overpowering Takakeisho, currently the sole occupant of sumo's second-highest rank.}}</ref> He stayed in the ''makuuchi'' championship race until suffering his third loss against ''yokozuna'' Terunofuji on Day 14,<ref>{{Cite web |date=May 27, 2023 |title=Sumo: Terunofuji clinches 8th Emperor's Cup with win over Kiribayama|url=https://mainichi.jp/english/articles/20230527/p2g/00m/0sp/033000c |publisher=Mainichi Shinbun}}</ref> finishing the tournament with 11 wins and his third straight Technique prize.
On 31 May 2023, Kiribayama's promotion to ''ōzeki'' was unanimously approved by the Sumo Association, and he made his formal acceptance speech when informed of the news at Michinoku stable.<ref name=ozekins>{{cite web |url=https://www.nikkansports.com/battle/sumo/news/202305310000220.html|title=霧馬山が大関昇進 15年照ノ富士以来モンゴル出身６人目、過去の５人は全員横綱に／一覧|date=31 May 2023|publisher=Nikkan Sports|access-date=31 May 2023|language=ja}}</ref><ref name=ozekikyodo>{{cite web |url=https://english.kyodonews.net/news/2023/05/161bfcb405bd-sumo-kiribayama-promoted-to-ozeki-changes-ring-name-to-kirishima.html|title=Sumo: Kiribayama promoted to ozeki, changes ring name to Kirishima|date=31 May 2023|publisher=Kyodo News|access-date=31 May 2023}}</ref> His parents from Mongolia flew in to Japan for the ceremony.<ref name=ozekikyodo/> With the promotion, Kiribayama became the sixth Mongolian ''ōzeki''.<ref name=ozekins/>
Following the promotion ceremony, it was announced that Kiribayama had changed his ''shikona'' (ring name) to '''Kirishima''', inheriting the ''shikona'' used by his stablemaster Michinoku (former ''ōzeki'' Kirishima Kazuhiro).<ref name=shikona/> The stablemaster revealed that on Day 14 of the May 2023 tournament, with promotion appearing to be certain, he asked Kiribayama to adopt his old ring name. The former Kirishima told reporters that he wanted the new Kirishima to climb higher with his new name, and surpass him to reach the rank of ''yokozuna''.<ref name=ozekikyodo/> Kirishima Tetsuo said that he would work harder than ever to live up to the rank of ''ōzeki''.<ref name=ozekikyodo/>
In the run-up to the tournament, however, Kirishima had to stop training for the last two days of the preparation period because of an elbow injury.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.nikkansports.com/battle/sumo/news/202307090000125.html|title=新大関霧島２日連続で稽古休む ４日の出稽古で右肘痛め懸命な調整続ける|date=9 July 2023|publisher=Nikkan Sports|access-date=9 July 2023|language=ja}}</ref> His series of injuries did not cease, however, and on the first day of the July tournament, it was revealed that Kirishima had complained of severe back pain, due to an inflammation in the back of the shoulder blade which had been going on for over a year. The issues forced Kirishima to declare himself ''kyūjō'' for his scheduled match against Nishikigi.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.nikkansports.com/battle/sumo/news/202307090000319.html|title=新大関の霧島が休場 激しい背中の痛み「７日の夜に急に痛くなり寝られなかったらしい」|date=9 July 2023|publisher=Nikkan Sports|access-date=9 July 2023|language=ja}}</ref> The medical report stated that Kirishima had bruised his right ribs and would need about three weeks of rest and treatment, but his stablemaster said at the time that he could return during the tournament.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://english.kyodonews.net/news/2023/07/32cac2d51496-sumo-new-ozeki-kirishima-pulls-out-ahead-of-nagoya-meets-1st-day.html|title=Sumo: New ozeki Kirishima pulls out ahead of Nagoya meet's 1st day|date=9 July 2023|publisher=Kyodo News|access-date=9 July 2023}}</ref> Kirishima's absence was the first time since Musōyama at the May 2000 tournament that a newly promoted ''ōzeki'' had to withdraw on the first day of a tournament, and the fifth time in total since the start of the Shōwa era.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.sponichi.co.jp/sports/news/2023/07/09/kiji/20230709s00005000270000c.html|title=霧島が「右肋骨骨挫傷」で休場 新大関の初日不戦敗、初日から大関不在はともに昭和以降初の珍事|date=9 July 2023|publisher=Sports Nippon|access-date=9 July 2023|language=ja}}</ref> A few days later, it was announced that Kirishima would participate on Day 4 of the tournament against Kotonowaka. The new ''ōzeki'' stated at the time that he desired to compete, saying that his health got a little better and that it would not be good to sit on the sidelines for too long.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://english.kyodonews.net/news/2023/07/f57338f693c0-sumo-injured-new-ozeki-kirishima-to-appear-from-4th-day-in-nagoya.html|title=Sumo: Injured new ozeki Kirishima to appear from 4th day in Nagoya|date=11 July 2023|publisher=Kyodo News|access-date=11 July 2023}}</ref> In their Day 4 contest, Kirishima pushed Kotonowaka out of the ''dohyō'' from behind to secure his first win at the ''ōzeki'' rank.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://english.kyodonews.net/news/2023/07/666f12f0c739-sumo-kirishima-wins-first-bout-as-ozeki-after-3-day-absence.html|title=Sumo: Kirishima wins first bout as ozeki after 3-day absence|date=12 July 2023|publisher=Kyodo News|access-date=12 July 2023}}</ref> Despite his comeback, Kirishima nevertheless reached a negative score (''make-koshi'') when he suffered a sixth defeat to the former ''ōzeki'' Asanoyama on Day 14 of the tournament.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.nikkansports.com/battle/sumo/news/202307220000955.html|title=朝乃山、大関霧島を破り796日ぶりに結びの一番で白星 大関時代の21年夏場所９日目以来|date=22 July 2023|publisher=Nikkan Sports|access-date=22 July 2023|language=ja}}</ref>
During the 2023 September tournament, Kirishima entered as a competitor under ''kadoban'' status, having to record at least eight victories to save his ''ōzeki'' rank. On the thirteenth day, he scored a victory over newly promoted-''ōzeki'' Hōshōryū, logically saving his status for the November tournament.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.chunichi.co.jp/article/774482?rct=sumo|title=霧島が「かど番」を脱出！自身初の大関対決で豊昇龍を上手投げで破り勝ち越しを決める【大相撲秋場所】|date=22 September 2023|publisher=Chunichi Sports|access-date=22 September 2023|language=ja}}</ref> He concluded this basho with a {{Win-loss record|w=9|l=6}} score.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://sumodb.sumogames.de/Rikishi_basho.aspx?r=12231&b=202309|title=Kirishima Tetsuo Aki 2023 results|date=24 September 2023|access-date=24 September 2023|via=Sumo Reference}}</ref>
In October 2023, Kirishima won for the first time the All Japan Rikishi Championship, a Meiji Shrine-sponsored charity tournament.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://hochi.news/articles/20231002-OHT1T51226.html?page=1|title=全日本力士選士権で大関・霧島が初優勝 霧島としても先代以来３０大会ぶりのＶ 九州場所は「いいアレで締めたい」|date=2 October 2023|access-date=3 October 2023|language=ja}}</ref>
During the November 2023 tournament, Kirishima was part of the group of wrestlers leading the championship race. On Day 13, he defeated Daieishō to take the lead for most wins by a top-division wrestler in the year.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.nikkansports.com/battle/sumo/news/202311240001153.html|title=霧島２敗堅守で隙なし ２度目Ｖと初の年間最多勝視野「自分の相撲を」優勝なら初場所は綱とりに|date=24 November 2023|access-date=25 November 2023|language=ja}}</ref> Having only been equaled in score by Atamifuji on Day 13, Kirishima's title hopes and a potential championship were at stake when he faced Atamifuji on Day 14.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.nikkansports.com/battle/sumo/news/202311240001621.html|title=組んでよし、離れてよしの万能型大関・霧島が本領を発揮 初顔合わせとなる熱海富士との注目一番|date=24 November 2023|access-date=25 November 2023|language=ja}}</ref> Kirishima won the match by ''yorikiri'', securing a one-win lead in the championship race into the final day.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.nikkansports.com/battle/sumo/news/202311250000657.html|title=霧島が２度目Ｖ王手 熱海富士との２敗対決大一番制し今場所初の単独トップ 年間最多勝も確定|date=25 November 2023|publisher=Nikkan Sports|access-date=25 November 2023|language=ja}}</ref> Kirishima locked up his second title when Atamifuji was defeated by Kotonowaka. In the final bout, Kirishima defeated fellow ''ōzeki'' Takakeishō to finish with a {{Win-loss record|w=13|l=2}} record for the tournament and 62 wins for the year.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://english.kyodonews.net/news/2023/11/14eac9264625-sumo-kirishima-beats-takakeisho-claims-2nd-title-with-2-win-margin.html|title=Sumo: Kirishima beats Takakeisho, claims 2nd title with 2-win margin|date=26 November 2023|publisher=Kyodo News|access-date=26 November 2023}}</ref> Kirishima dedicated his victory in the tournament–held in Kyushu–to his stablemaster Michinoku, who was born in Kagoshima Prefecture.<ref name=kyodo271123>{{cite web |url=https://english.kyodonews.net/news/2023/11/f7884a9afc81-sumo-yokozuna-candidate-kirishima-honors-namesake-with-championship.html|title=Sumo: Yokozuna candidate Kirishima honors namesake with championship|date=27 November 2023|publisher=Kyodo News|access-date=27 November 2023}}</ref> The Sumo Association indicated that Kirishima would likely be considered for promotion to ''yokozuna'' with another championship in January, or an equivalent performance.<ref name=kyodo271123/>
Kirishima made a good start to the tournament, although he also suffered two defeats on Day 4 against Midorifuji and on Day 8 against Tobizaru.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.nikkansports.com/battle/sumo/news/202401170001498.html|title=関取最軽量の翠富士が大関霧島から銀星 結婚＆バレンタインデー挙式も判明|work=Nikkan Sports|date=18 January 2024|access-date=26 January 2024|language=ja}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.nikkansports.com/battle/sumo/news/202401210001187.html|title=霧島２敗「引いてしまうといろんな攻め」翔猿を警戒も下がって押し出される 取組後の取材応じず|work=Nikkan Sports|date=21 January 2024|access-date=26 January 2024|language=ja}}</ref> On Day 13, he defeated the other remaining ''ōzeki'', Hōshōryū, by ''nimaigeri'' ('ankle kicking twist down'), a technique not seen in ''makuuchi'' for ten years.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.sponichi.co.jp/sports/news/2024/01/26/kiji/20240126s00005000570000c.html|title=霧島 幕内10年ぶり珍技「二枚蹴り」で大関対決制した！ ネットでは「初めて見たかも」|work=Sports Nippon|date=26 January 2024|access-date=26 January 2024|language=ja}}</ref> This victory, his fifth in a row, ensured him a place in the group of three wrestlers tied for the title (with Terunofuji and Kotonowaka).<ref>{{cite web |url=https://hochi.news/articles/20240126-OHT1T51185.html|title=２敗で照ノ富士、霧島、琴ノ若の３人が並ぶ 琴ノ若は照ノ富士に敗れる 綱取りを目指す霧島は豊昇龍を破る|work=Sports Hochi|date=26 January 2024|access-date=26 January 2024|language=ja}}</ref> However, Kirishima was beaten by Kotonowaka on Day 14, forcing him to beat the ''yokozuna'' on the final day to secure a place in a playoff.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.nikkansports.com/battle/sumo/news/202401270000802.html|title=関脇琴ノ若が大関霧島を撃破 優勝＆大関昇進へ大前進 前日照ノ富士に敗戦後は車中で絶叫|date=27 January 2024|publisher=Nikkan Sports|access-date=27 January 2024|language=ja}}</ref> Kirishima failed to beat Terunofuji, ending his chances of winning the tournament.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.sponichi.co.jp/sports/news/2024/01/28/kiji/20240128s00005000407000c.html|title=照ノ富士 4場所ぶり復活優勝！琴ノ若との決定戦制して9度目賜杯|date=28 January 2024|publisher=Sports Nippon|access-date=28 January 2024|language=ja}}</ref> After the tournament, the head of the Judging Department, Sadogatake, commented that had Kirishima won a twelfth victory by defeating Terunofuji, he would have submitted a recommendation for promotion to ''yokozuna''.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://hochi.news/articles/20240128-OHT1T51299.html?page=1|title=大関・霧島の綱取りが白紙に 照ノ富士に完敗し佐渡ケ嶽審判部長「横綱に勝って１２勝なら昇進を話し合っていた」|date=28 January 2024|publisher=Sports Hochi|access-date=28 January 2024|language=ja}}</ref>
In anticipation of his master's 65th birthday in April 2024, it was announced that Michinoku stable would close after the March 2024 tournament, with its wrestlers to be distributed within the Tokitsukaze ''ichimon''.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.nikkansports.com/battle/sumo/news/202403020000115.html|title=陸奥部屋が春場所後に閉鎖へ 親方65歳定年迎え 霧島ら力士らは時津風一門へ移籍へ|date=2 March 2024|publisher=Nikkan Sports|access-date=2 March 2024}}</ref> According to sources inside the Sumo Association, Kirishima asked to be transferred to the care of former ''yokozuna'' Kakuryū in Otowayama stable.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://hochi.news/articles/20240301-OHT1T51254.html?page=1|title=霧島、春場所後に音羽山部屋へ転籍 陸奥親方が４月に定年、後継者不在で部屋閉鎖へ|date=2 March 2024|publisher=Sports Hochi|access-date=2 March 2024}}</ref> During this same March tournament, Kirishima performed poorly, suffering an eighth defeat on Day 11 against Wakamotoharu, with the certainty of being relegated to ''kadoban'' status for the May tournament.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://hochi.news/articles/20240320-OHT1T51215.html?page=1|title=霧島負け越し 「カド番って何？ わかりません」冗談で強がる 八角理事長「力がないからだ」|date=20 March 2024|publisher=Sports Hochi|access-date=20 March 2024}}</ref> In total, he recorded just five victories in the tournament, including a notable last one against fellow-''ōzeki'' Kotonowaka. Disappointed by his performance, he nevertheless confirmed that he was looking forward to being trained by Otowayama, declaring that he intended to prepare as quickly as possible for the May tournament.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.nikkansports.com/battle/sumo/news/202403240001499.html|title=霧島、首痛め苦しむも「最後は何とか勝ちたかった」定年迎える師匠陸奥親方へ贈る"逆転"星|date=24 March 2024|publisher=Nikkan Sports|access-date=24 March 2024}}</ref> Later that same month, he withdrew from regional tours for medical reasons, citing a neck contusion, doubled by a contusion of both elbows and a right triceps tendonitis.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://hochi.news/articles/20240329-OHT1T51148.html?page=1|title=尊富士が春巡業を休場 右足首負傷を押して出場の春場所で１１０年ぶり新入幕Ｖ 不振だった大関・霧島らも休場|date=29 March 2024|publisher=Sports Hochi|access-date=29 March 2024}}</ref>
Kirishima's performances were impacted by his injuries and at the May 2024 tournament, during which Kirishima wrestled under the status of ''kadoban-ōzeki'', he recorded a series of consecutive defeats.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.tokyo-sports.co.jp/articles/-/302560|title=【夏場所】霧島が３連敗で大関残留に暗雲「内容は全然ダメ。自分らしい相撲が取れない」|date=16 May 2024|publisher=Tokyo Sports|access-date=17 May 2024}}</ref> He withdrew on Day 7 after scoring just one win. Kirishima would not return to the tournament, with his new stablemaster Otowayama commenting that he had neck pain and would be hospitalized for a few days. Kirishima was demoted to {{Transliteration|ja|sekiwake}} for the July tournament, where he needed to win ten matches in order to return to sumo's second-highest rank.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://english.kyodonews.net/news/2024/05/657c27c77430-sumo-ozeki-kirishima-to-be-demoted-after-pulling-out-of-summer-meet.html|title=Sumo: Ozeki Kirishima to be demoted after pulling out of Summer meet|date=18 May 2024|publisher=Kyodo News|access-date=18 May 2024}}</ref> His bid to do so came to an end when he lost his sixth match on Day 13 of the July tournament.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://english.kyodonews.net/news/2024/07/2cb61884ca5e-sumo-terunofuji-closes-on-10th-career-championship.html|title=Sumo: Terunofuji closes on 10th career championship|date=26 July 2024|publisher=Kyodo News|access-date=26 July 2024}}</ref> He did, however, finish with eight wins, to retain the {{Transliteration|ja|sekiwake}} rank going into the September tournament.
=== Third Emperor's Cup and Return to {{translit|ja|ōzeki}} === On the occasion of the pre-tournament training in September, during which he competed against former {{translit|ja|ōzeki}} Shōdai and Mitakeumi, Kirishima reassured the press by mentioning his desire to win a double-digit record in the hope of regaining his former rank, and by communicating on the recovery of his injuries.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.nikkansports.com/battle/sumo/news/202409020000171.html|title=霧島、古傷の首痛は回復傾向「もう大丈夫」時津風部屋に出稽古し御嶽海、正代らと３勝３敗|date=2 September 2024|publisher=Nikkan Sports|access-date=2 September 2024}}</ref> Kirishima managed to finish the September 2024 tournament with twelve wins, which was his second runner-up performance. At the January 2025 tournament, Kirishima, fighting as a {{translit|ja|maegashira}} for the first time since July 2022, recorded 11 wins and won his second Fighting Spirit Prize. Ranked as a {{translit|ja|komusubi}} in March 2025, Kirishima won eight matches and was repromoted to {{translit|ja|sekiwake}}. At the May 2025 tournament, Kirishima resumed a long winning streak that could enable him to regain his former {{translit|ja|ōzeki}} rank by scoring 11 victories, which also earned him a fourth Technique prize.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.sponichi.co.jp/sports/news/2025/05/24/kiji/20250524s00005000322000c.html|title=霧島「男前の時期は終わった」 大関復帰への起点11勝目に苦笑い|date=25 May 2025|publisher=Sports Nippon|access-date=25 May 2025}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.nikkansports.com/battle/sumo/news/202505250002030.html|title=霧島、４度目技能賞も千秋楽での敗戦悔やむ「今まで良かった分もなくなった感覚」|date=25 May 2025|publisher=Nikkan Sports|access-date=25 May 2025}}</ref> However, Kirishima struggled with consistency during this time, being unable to earn double-digit victories in consecutive tournaments.
At the November 2025 tournament, fighting as {{translit|ja|maegashira}} 2, Kirishima won 11 matches and was awarded his third Fighting Spirit Prize. He repeated the feat in January 2026, when he won 11 more matches and received his fourth Fighting Spirit Prize by defeating Abi on the final day.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2026-01-25 |title=Sumo: Ukrainian ozeki Aonishiki wins back-to-back championships in playoff |url=https://english.kyodonews.net/articles/-/69196 |access-date=2026-03-18 |website=Japan Wire by Kyodo News |language=en}}</ref> Going into the March 2026 tournament, Kirishima had won 22 matches in the past 2 tournaments, making a return to {{translit|ja|ōzeki}} a possibility by the end of the tournament. Kirishima would need 11 more wins to reach the 33 wins over 3 tournaments benchmark used for {{translit|ja|ōzeki}} promotion.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Gunning |first=John |date=2026-03-06 |title=March basho opens with Aonishiki on verge of historic promotion |url=https://www.japantimes.co.jp/sports/2026/03/06/sumo/2026-march-basho-preview/ |access-date=2026-03-18 |website=The Japan Times |language=en}}</ref> Kirishima started out the tournament in excellent fashion, losing only to Churanoumi on Day 2.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2026-03-09 |title=Sumo: Yokozuna Onosato suffers 2nd straight loss, Aonishiki also beaten |url=https://english.kyodonews.net/articles/-/71935 |access-date=2026-03-18 |website=Japan Wire by Kyodo News |language=en}}</ref> Following this, he would record eight consecutive victories to be tied for the lead in the title race at {{Win-loss record|w=9|l=1}}. On Day 10, Kirishima faced co-leader Gonoyama. Kirishima thrust Gonoyama down to obtain his 10th victory and take the sole lead of the March title race.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2026-03-18 |title=Sumo: Sekiwake Kirishima beats Gonoyama to take sole Spring lead in Osaka |url=https://english.kyodonews.net/articles/-/72546 |access-date=2026-03-18 |website=Japan Wire by Kyodo News |language=en}}</ref> He continued his bid for the title with a victory against {{translit|ja|yokozuna}} Hōshōryū the next day, and he moved even closer to the title with his defeat of Ōhō on Day 13.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2026-03-19 |title=Sumo: Kirishima topples yokozuna Hoshoryu to underline title credentials |url=https://english.kyodonews.net/articles/-/72633 |access-date=2026-03-23 |website=Japan Wire by Kyodo News |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=2026-03-20 |title=Sumo: Sekiwake Kirishima moves within a win to secure Spring meet title |url=https://english.kyodonews.net/articles/-/72705 |access-date=2026-03-23 |website=Japan Wire by Kyodo News |language=en}}</ref> On Day 14, Kirishima was {{Win-loss record|w=12|l=1}} and held a two-win lead in the title race, meaning a win here would secure the title. However, he was defeated by {{translit|ja|ōzeki}} Aonishiki, though the other title contenders, Hōshōryū and Kotoshōhō, were also defeated, dropping them both to {{Win-loss record|w=10|l=4}}. Because of this, Kirishima was able to secure the championship.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2026-03-21 |title=Sumo: Kirishima seals Spring title despite loss after rivals also falter |url=https://english.kyodonews.net/articles/-/72738 |access-date=2026-03-23 |website=Japan Wire by Kyodo News |language=en}}</ref> He was also defeated on Day 15 by {{translit|ja|ōzeki}} Kotozakura, meaning he finished with a {{Win-loss record|w=12|l=3}} record. Kirishima also took home the Outstanding Performance Prize, which was his first time winning that award and his ninth {{translit|ja|sanshō}} overall. His championship also meant that he had won 34 matches over the past 3 tournaments, making a return to Ōzeki highly likely.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2026-03-22 |title=Sumo: Kirishima set for ozeki return as Aonishiki ends with losing record |url=https://english.kyodonews.net/articles/-/72764 |access-date=2026-03-23 |website=Japan Wire by Kyodo News |language=en}}</ref>
Kirishima's return to {{translit|ja|ōzeki}} was formalized at a board meeting on 25 March.<ref>{{Cite web |last=高田文太 |title=大関昇進の霧島「さらに高みを目指して一生懸命努力」と口上で横綱へ決意 長女のリクエストは… - 大相撲 : 日刊スポーツ |url=https://www.nikkansports.com/battle/sumo/news/202603250000388.html |access-date=2026-03-25 |website=nikkansports.com |language=ja}}</ref> This made Kirishima only the third wrestler since the introduction of the {{translit|ja|kadoban}} system in 1969 to go through the full process of being promoted to {{translit|ja|ōzeki}} twice, after Kaiketsu and Terunofuji.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Gunning |first=John |date=2026-03-23 |title=Kirishima’s Emperor’s Cup likely seals dramatic return to ōzeki |url=https://www.japantimes.co.jp/sports/2026/03/23/sumo/gunning-kirishima-osaka-ozeki/ |access-date=2026-03-23 |website=The Japan Times |language=en}}</ref> In his acceptance speech, Kirishima vowed to "reach even greater heights."<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.nikkansports.com/battle/sumo/news/202603250000388.html|title=大関昇進の霧島「さらに高みを目指して一生懸命努力」と口上で横綱へ決意 長女のリクエストは…|date=25 March 2026|publisher=Nikkan Sports|language=ja|access-date=25 March 2026}}</ref>
==Fighting style== According to his Japan Sumo Association profile, Kirishima's preferred grip on his opponent's ''mawashi'' is ''hidari-yotsu'', a right arm outside and left hand inside position. His favourite techniques are listed as ''yori-kiri'' (force out) and ''nage'' (throws), both underarm and overarm. In the run-up to his top division promotion he increased his weight to {{convert|140|kg|lb|abbr=on}}, giving him a more powerful attack, but he is still able to outmaneuver his opponents by his speed and footwork. During the early years of his career, he aimed to emulate the style of his master and the Mongolian ''yokozuna'' Harumafuji and Asashōryū.<ref name="dailysports"/>
==Personal life== Kirishima maintains a decade-long friendship with judoka Ryunosuke Haga.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.nikkansports.com/battle/column/sumo/news/202403210001376.html|title=「羽賀さん」「霧ちゃん」と呼び合う仲 不振にあえぐ大関霧島を陰ながら応援するオリンピアン|date=22 March 2024|publisher=Nikkan Sports|access-date=22 March 2024|language=ja}}</ref>
==Career record== {{Sumo record box start|Kirishima Tetsuo<ref name="sdb">{{cite web | author= | title=Kiribayama Tetsuo Rikishi Information | publisher=Sumo Reference | url=http://sumodb.sumogames.de/Rikishi.aspx?r=12231 | date= | access-date=25 March 2020}}</ref>}} {{Sumo record year start link|2015}} {{Basho}} {{Basho}} {{Basho|MAEZUMOU}} {{Basho|jk|20|w|5|2}} {{Basho|jo|67|w|6|1}} {{Basho|sa|96|w|7|0<br>Champion}} {{Sumo record year end}} {{Sumo record year start link|2016}} {{Basho|ma|59|w|3|4}} {{Basho|sa|12|e|4|3}} {{Basho|sa|3|e|6|1}} {{Basho|KYUJO|rank=ma|r-no=30|tozai=e}} {{Basho|sa|11|e|6|1}} {{Basho|ma|35|e|5|2}} {{Sumo record year end}} {{Sumo record year start link|2017}} {{Basho|ma|20|e|5|2}} {{Basho|ma|12|w|3|4}} {{Basho|ma|18|e|6|1}} {{Basho|ma|10|e|3|4}} {{Basho|ma|14|w|0|1|6}} {{Basho|ma|49|w|6|1}} {{Sumo record year end}} {{Sumo record year start link|2018}} {{Basho|ma|21|w|4|3}} {{Basho|ma|16|3|2|5}} {{Basho|ma|35|w|7|0<br>Champion}} {{Basho|ma|3|w|3|4}} {{Basho|ma|6|e|3|4}} {{Basho|ma|12|w|6|1}} {{Sumo record year end}} {{Sumo record year start link|2019}} {{Basho|ma|1|w|4|3}} {{Basho|j|14|w|9|6}} {{Basho|j|11|w|8|7}} {{Basho|j|9|w|10|5}} {{Basho|j|4|w|7|8}} {{Basho|j|5|w|11|4|P}} {{Sumo record year end}} {{Sumo record year start link|2020}} {{Basho|m|17|e|11|4|||F}} {{Basho|m|8|w|9|6}} {{Basho|CANCELLED|rank=m|r-no=3|tozai=w|absent=0|<BR> <SMALL>State of Emergency </SMALL>}} {{Basho|m|3|w|6|9}} {{Basho|m|5|e|9|4|2}} {{Basho|m|1|e|3|12}} {{Sumo record year end}} {{Sumo record year start link|2021}} {{Basho|m|8|w|8|7}} {{Basho|m|4|e|7|8}} {{Basho|m|4|e|6|9}} {{Basho|m|6|w|9|6}} {{Basho|m|2|w|9|6}} {{Basho|k|1|w|6|9}} {{Sumo record year end}} {{Sumo record year start link|2022}} {{Basho|m|1|w|6|9}} {{Basho|m|4|e|10|5}} {{Basho|m|2|e|10|5}} {{Basho|m|1|e|8|7}} {{Basho|k|2|w|9|6}} {{Basho|k|1|w|8|7}} {{Sumo record year end}} {{Sumo record year start link|2023}} {{Basho|k|1|e|11|4||j|t}} {{Basho|s|2|e|12|3|P|y|t}} {{Basho|s|1|e|11|4|||t}} {{Basho|o|1|w|6|7|2}} {{Basho|o|1|e|9|6}} {{Basho|o|1|w|13|2||y}} {{Sumo record year end}} {{Sumo record year start link|2024}} {{Basho|o|1|e|11|4}} {{Basho|o|1|e|5|10}} {{Basho|o|2|w|1|6|8}} {{Basho|s|2|e|8|7}} {{Basho|s|2|e|12|3||j}} {{Basho|s|1|e|6|9}} {{Sumo record year end}} {{Sumo record year start link|2025}} {{Basho|m|1|w|11|4|||f}} {{Basho|k|1|e|8|7}} {{Basho|s|1|w|11|4|||t}} {{Basho|s|1|w|8|7}} {{Basho|s|1|w|6|9}} {{Basho|m|2|e|11|4|||f}} {{Sumo record year end}} {{Sumo record year start link|2026}} {{Basho|s|1|e|11|4|||f}} {{Basho|s|1|e|12|3||y|o}} {{Basho|o|2|e|12|3|P|j}} {{Basho|||||}} {{Basho|||||}} {{Basho|||||}} {{Sumo record year end}} {{Sumo record box end}}
==See also== *Glossary of sumo terms *List of active sumo wrestlers *List of Mongolian sumo wrestlers *List of non-Japanese sumo wrestlers *List of active special prize winners *List of sumo top division champions *List of sumo top division runners-up *List of {{tlit|ja|ōzeki}}
==References== {{reflist}}
==External links== *{{Goo Sumo|3622}} {{Makuuchi rikishi banzuke}}
{{DEFAULTSORT:Kirishima Tetsuo}} Category:1996 births Category:Living people Category:Mongolian sumo wrestlers Category:Sumo people from Ulaanbaatar Category:Ōzeki Category:Sportspeople of Mongolian descent