TOKYO - Ukrainian star Aonishiki has expressed his determination to reach sumo's highest rank of yokozuna after his return to ozeki was confirmed in the latest rankings released on Monday.
"I don't have any special emotions. My determination to keep aiming higher remains unchanged," the 22-year-old said at a press conference in Tokyo ahead of next month's Autumn Grand Sumo Tournament.
Despite left ankle and big toe injuries, Aonishiki captured his third top-division title at the Nagoya tournament in July with a 12-3 record.
He had been demoted to sekiwake ahead of the 15-day meet at IG Arena but met the 10-win requirement for an immediate comeback to the second-highest rank en route to lifting the Emperor's Cup.
During the regional exhibition tour through Sunday, the grappler refrained from practice bouts and instead focused on conditioning.
"The situation is gradually improving," Aonishiki said. "I've done everything I can, so I have no concerns."
Meanwhile, Aonishiki declined to pose with the newly released rankings sheet in the customary commemorative photo session, saying, "I don't think that's necessary. I've done it before."
Among those promoted for the upcoming 15-day tournament at Tokyo's Ryogoku Kokugikan from Sept. 13, 177-centimeter dynamo Fujinokawa was elevated from komusubi to sekiwake, while Hakunofuji rose to komusubi, the fourth highest rank.
