**Wakano Katsuki’s Full Press Conference on His Makuuchi Debut – Minatogawa Oyakata Moved by Progress**
The Japan Sumo Association unveiled the summer tournament rankings (first day May 10 at Ryogoku Kokugikan) on April 27, with Wakano Katsuki (22, Minatogawa stable) making his long-awaited debut in the makuuchi division. This marks the first makuuchi wrestler from the Minatogawa stable since former ozeki Takakeisho (now Minatogawa Oyakata, 29) took over the Tokiwayama stable.
Minatogawa Oyakata joined Wakano at the press conference held at Ryogoku Kokugikan in Tokyo. Below is the full transcript.
– Congratulations on your new makuuchi debut. How does it feel?
**Wakano:** I’m not really feeling it that much yet.
– Have you contacted your hometown?
**Wakano:** Yes, I have.
– What kind of messages did you exchange?
**Wakano:** I received messages from many people saying, “Congratulations” and “Do your best.” It made me really happy to know so many people are supporting me.
– How do you look back on the roughly four and a half years since your entry (January 2022 debut)?
**Wakano:** It’s been a steady process. I haven’t been chasing quick results. Minatogawa Oyakata always told me to focus on building my body first. That advice has been the foundation of my progress.
– What specific goals have you set for the upcoming summer tournament?
**Wakano:** I want to wrestle with confidence and show the sumo I’ve been building. No specific number of wins, but I’ll aim to keep my position and grow from here.
– Minatogawa Oyakata, what are your thoughts on seeing your first makuuchi wrestler?
**Minatogawa Oyakata:** It’s truly emotional. From the day I took over the stable, I’ve been working with each rikishi one by one. Wakano has grown steadily, not rushing for immediate wins but focusing on what really matters – strength, technique, and mindset. This debut is a big step for our stable.
– How will you support him going forward?
**Minatogawa Oyakata:** The same way. We won’t demand results overnight. He’s still young. If he continues to build his body and polish his sumo, good results will follow naturally.
– Thanks to everyone for their support. I’ll do my best to repay you on the dohyo.
**Wakano Katsuki** (born 2004, from Aichi Prefecture) made his professional debut at the January 2022 tournament. After climbing through the ranks, he secured promotion to makuuchi with a strong performance in the March 2025 tournament. He is the first makuuchi wrestler produced by the Minatogawa stable under its current oyakata.
The summer tournament at Ryogoku Kokugikan begins May 10.