The Japan Sumo Association on Feb. 23 demoted retired yokozuna Hakuho, the winningest wrestler in the sport’s history, two ranks over the violent acts committed by a disciple in his stable.

Akira Kato is not a yes-man, even to the greatest sumo wrestler ... it comfortable for Hakuho to have him around. Tokohachi was thus brought by younger wrestlers to the stable to deal with the ...