other-martial-arts
Tsumatori
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Tsumatori is an official sumo kimarite in which from the opponent’s side, the attacker catches the toes of a forward-moving foot and pulls them up and backward. The clearest cue is that the hand controls the toes rather than the ankle as the opponent steps forward. Tsumatori targets the toes; Kozumatori takes the front of the ankle, a difference that matters even when both look like low leg picks. The practical English gloss “Toe pick” is a viewing aid rather than an official translation. Focus on the contact that causes the final movement and on whether the opponent is forced out, falls, or is thrown. Earlier exchanges may create the opening, but the kimarite names the action that actually decides the bout.
Overview
| Japanese | 褄取り |
|---|---|
| Reading | つまとり |
| Group | Leg techniques (掛け手) |
| English guide | Toe pick |
| Official no. | 34 |
What happens
The result is recorded when from the opponent’s side, the attacker catches the toes of a forward-moving foot and pulls them up and backward.
How to spot it
Watch the decisive action, then confirm the result and the closest alternative.
- Action the hand controls the toes rather than the ankle as the opponent steps forward.
- Result from the opponent’s side, the attacker catches the toes of a forward-moving foot and pulls them up and backward.
- Compare Tsumatori targets the toes; Kozumatori takes the front of the ankle, a difference that matters even when both look like low leg picks.
Similar techniques
Tsumatori targets the toes; Kozumatori takes the front of the ankle, a difference that matters even when both look like low leg picks. The related pages Kozumatori and Ashitori offer useful visual comparisons.
Name
Tsumatori is written 褄取り and read つまとり. It belongs to Leg techniques (掛け手); “Toe pick” is a practical English guide, not an official translation.
Context
Tsumatori can emerge directly from the tachiai, after a prolonged exchange, or as a counter when posture and footing change. Left-right orientation, wrestler size, and camera angle can alter its appearance without changing the classification.
Statistics
The Japan Sumo Association table consulted on 12 September 2026 recorded no Tsumatori result in its bounded sample of 190,450 bouts from January 2013 through the final day of the July 2026 tournament. This is a dated sample, not a timeless probability; check the association’s live page for later totals.
Sources
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