Named in honor of Ryoji Matsumoto (1972– ), Japanese sumo wrestler whose professional name is Tamakasuga. Born in Ehime prefecture, where this minor planet was discovered, he became a professional wrestler in 1994. In 1996 he was promoted to “Makunouchi”, the top division in the official listing of rank. Famous for his powerful “tsuki-oshi”, or pushing-thrusting style, Tamakasuga has won the Outstanding Performance Award, the Technique Prize and the Fighting Spirit Prize (twice) in his 26 tournaments. (M 32096) _ _.