Asashoryu returned to Mongolia today despite previous reports that he would not go back. Earlier in the week at Tochiazuma's top-knot snipping ceremony, Asashoryu half-joked, "I wonder if the press is going to let me go home?" 

The form to travel overseas didn't arrive at the Association's office until today...after Asashoryu had already departed from Narita Airport, but when asked for comment, the Association said it was no problem. "Approval to return home is given as soon as his stable master stamps his seal on the forms. Receiving the form after he has already departed is not a problem." Takasago-oyakata gave his seal of approval on February 2nd. The Yokozuna will return to Japan on the 8th.

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