ABEMA to Feature Judo Gold Medalist Kristina Deguchi as Guest Commentator for Sumo Tournament

ABEMA, the new future of television, is pleased to announce that judo gold medalist Kristina Deguchi (Nippon Life) will appear as a special guest commentator for the middle day (July 19) of the July Grand Sumo Tournament, which opens on July 12 (Sunday) at the IG Arena in Aichi Prefecture.

Deguchi, who hails from Shiojiri City, Nagano Prefecture, is a judoka who won the World Judo Championships in 2019 and 2023 as a representative of Canada. In 2024, she achieved a historic feat by winning a gold medal in the women's 57kg class at an international tournament held in Paris. In March of this year, she and her sister Kelly, who also represented Canada, simultaneously announced their retirement from active duty. Deguchi's new challenge as a guest commentator for sumo, along with her future wide-ranging activities, has garnered significant attention.

The July Grand Sumo Tournament is highly anticipated, with both yokozuna, Toyohashira and Dai no Ri, expected to perform dynamically as they return from their absence. ABEMA will provide a free live broadcast of all matches from the preliminary to the final match. In this appearance, Deguchi, a competitor herself, will analyze the matches of the wrestlers who fight under extreme tension from her unique perspective, stating, "In judo, you can grab the judo uniform, but in sumo, it's only the mawashi. The technique of breaking your opponent within these limitations is truly amazing."

The following comments have been received from Kristina Deguchi, who will appear as a guest for the "July Grand Sumo Tournament Middle Day":

Full Comments from Kristina Deguchi

--- Please tell us what image you have had of sumo so far.

Until I grew up, I thought it was a sport where the stronger and heavier person wins. However, as I continued with judo, I came to know the depth and difficulty of sumo, where technique, tactics, and a moment's judgment decide the outcome, and I began to feel its greatness.

--- From the perspective of a judo gold medalist, is there any point where you feel "this is amazing" about the wrestlers?

In judo, you can grab the judo uniform, but in sumo, it's only the mawashi. The technique of breaking your opponent within these limitations is truly amazing, and I am always overwhelmed by the power and mental strength of the wrestlers who continue to advance even in intense clashes where slaps and heads collide.

--- Ms. Deguchi, who announced your retirement from active duty in March this year, if there is anything new you would like to challenge, please let us know.

Until now, I have only thought about becoming stronger in judo, but now that I have retired from active duty, I would like to contribute to the improvement of competitive skills and cultural exchange by conveying the appeal of judo not only in Japan but also overseas.

--- Please give a one-word comment to ABEMA viewers!

I think sumo has many appealing charms, such as a moment's tactics and techniques, and the individuality of each person. Please enjoy it together!

"ABEMA Sumo 2026 July Tournament" Broadcast Overview

Period: July 12 (Sun) to July 26 (Sun), 2026

URL: https://abema.tv/video/title/394-72

ABEMA Sumo Special Site: https://times.abema.tv/sumo/torikumi

<Middle Day>

Period: July 19 (Sun) 15:40-20:00

URL: https://abema.tv/channels/sumo/slots/A63wR6irBEskZM

Appearance

Exclusive Commentator: Hanada Torikami

Live Commentator: Fujii Yasuo

Guest Commentator: Akatsu

Special Guest: Kristina Deguchi

*Note that the virtual commentary by Hanada Torikami will only be conducted on Saturdays and Sundays during the July Tournament period. *Note that the broadcast schedule, content, and format are subject to change without notice. Please understand. *When using images, please indicate the credit "(C) AbemaTV, Inc."

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