Japan's sumo supremo on Monday called on troubled grand champion Asashoryu to return from his native Mongolia, where he has been treated for stress disorder, and prepare for his comeback to the ring.
"He'd be better to build up his physical strength in Japan," Kitanoumi Toshimitsu, president of the Japan Sumo Association, told reporters.
"If he rests up for two months, it will take him two months to restore his physical strength. Japan may be better as [far] as the weather is concerned," he added.
"We will have to listen to what his doctor would say about the situation," Kitanoumi added, when asked when Asashoryu should return to Japan.
Asashoryu, whose real name is Dolgorsuren Dagvadorj, was suspended until late November after he was caught on camera playing soccer in Mongolia after citing injuries in skipping a non-competition tour of provincial Japan.
The 26-year-old Mongolian was allowed to return home 19 days ago for treatment after doctors said he had developed mental problems as a result of his suspension.
Kitanoumi's comments were made amid speculation that Asashoryu might be faking his illness and wanted to go to Mongolia for business reasons, including promoting a spa facility owned by his relatives.
Asashoryu's brother has told Japanese media that he would eventually return to the world of sumo, in the midst of a debate over whether he should be allowed to continue after disgracing the status of grand champion with his behavior.
Kitanoumi, a former grand champion himself, said on Sunday that the Mongolian would be welcome to take part in another non-competition tour of provincial Japan in December before a regular tournament held in January.
"If his condition is fit, he can take part in the winter tour. I [hope] he will train hard and build up his body for the January tournament," he said.
The association regards non-competition tours as essential to expanding sumo's fan base.
Asashoryu's Mongolian doctor said last week the wrestler would have mud baths and massages as part of his treatment.
Asashoryu has already been given medical treatment and music therapy since his arrival at a spa.
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