Harumafuji-funded Mongolian school damaged www.nhk.or.jp
A Mongolian charity school funded by Yokozuna sumo grand champion Harumafuji has suffered a possible act of vandalism following allegations that he assaulted another wrestler.
Residents in Mongolia's capital Ulaanbaatar say someone erased Harumafuji's name from a wall of the school, which is now under construction. The institution is scheduled to open next year.
The people say the incident occurred after Mongolian media reported on the alleged attack by Harumafuji against a lower-ranked wrestler Takanoiwa last month in Japan. Both wrestlers are from Mongolia.
A 75-year-old man who lives near the school said it is commendable that Harumafuji invested in the school's construction for children.
But he added that Harumafuji did something wrong despite his popularity and high social status.
A 57-year-old woman said she is glad that Harumafuji is helping to build the school. She said she does not believe the assault occurred because he and the other Mongolian wrestlers all have good personalities. She added that she wants people to support successful wrestlers, instead of speaking ill of them.
Harumafuji reportedly assaulted Takanoiwa while they were out drinking during a local sumo tour in the western Japanese city of Tottori last month. Sources say Harumafuji was lecturing Takanoiwa about his attitude, and lost his temper when the junior wrestler continued looking at his cellphone while he was talking.
Published Date:2017-11-19