KitKat. Ito En green tea. Kokugikan pork curry (by way of the Japan Sumo Association). And…Pikachu?
Yes, for one – make that two very brief shining moments, Pokémon stood head above every other sponsor at the Fukuoka November 2021 and Tokyo January 2022 Grand Sumo Tournaments. The sponsorship in Tokyo went well beyond the occasional mascot appearances, as various characters and symbols appeared on keshomawashi (the aprons worn by wrestlers in the top makuuchi division during their introductions), select gyoji shozoku (referee robes) and sponsor banners both outside and in the dohyō (each banner displayed in the ring prior to a bout is equivalent to one cash envelope for the winner). Alas, this fun partnership between Pokémon and sumo was short-lived, but it would be great to see a comeback at future basho.
![Song: “Ashibina” Composed by Shuken Maekawa Performers: Mari Miyasato, Miyaka Nishihira & Rev. Blayne Nakasone Sakata Event: The Pacific Buddhist Academy’s 18th Annual Taiko Festival, Moanalua High School Performing Arts […]](https://www.meniscuszine.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/PBA-18th-Annual-Taiko-Festival_240317_001_54b-75x75.jpg "“Ashibina” – 2024 PBA 18th Annual Taiko Festival")
![Song: “Count on Me” Composed by Bruno Mars, Phillip Lawrence and Ari Levine Performers: Addi Hernandez & Mone Sugimoto Event: The Pacific Buddhist Academy’s 18th Annual Taiko Festival, Moanalua High […]](https://www.meniscuszine.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/PBA-18th-Annual-Taiko-Festival_240317_001_50b-75x75.jpg "“Count on Me” – 2024 PBA 18th Annual Taiko Festival")