Ozeki Tochiazuma, who had been doubtful to appear at the upcoming New Year Grand Sumo Tournament after undergoing surgery on his left knee, said Thursday he will wrestle at the 15-day meet at Tokyo's Ryogoku Kokugikan.
The 30-year-old Tamanoi stable wrestler said he wanted to get back in the ring as soon as possible despite needing rest.
"I thought about resting and healing the injury but I want to get back to the dohyo," said Tochiazuma. "I have decided I will wrestle." Tochiazuma aggravated an old knee injury during the Kyushu basho in November, where he managed to post a 10-5 record, and had surgery on Dec. 20.