Members of the Japan Sumo Association's Yokozuna Council expressed hope Sunday that embattled grand champion Kisenosato can turn around his fortunes, but optimism was in short supply after his defeat on the opening day of the New Year Grand Sumo Tournament.The yokozuna, who was not impressive in his loss to komusubi Mitakeumi, has failed to finish nine of the last 10 meets. In November, he became the first yokozuna in 87 years to lose his first four bouts at a grand tournament. In response, the council drafted its first ever "letter of encouragement" to remind the grand champion of his need…READ FULL ARTICLE
