Stillness Before the Explosion: Sumō’s “Tachiai” Balancing Act

Eyes locked, the rikishi squat deeply and place both fists firmly on the dohyō. Faceoffs between Takanohana and Akebono always projected dignity and tension. (© Jiji)

A late Edo period print of a faceoff between Inagawa and Tomozuna in 1843.

Their foreheads touching, Tamanishiki (right) and Misugiiso face off at the January 1926 basho.

On the last day of the November 2019 tournament, yokozuna Hakuhō took the full time allotted for warming up before engaging with Takakeishō (left). (© Jiji)