Two years later, Russia's invasion of Ukraine began, with Melitopol coming under Russian control. As fierce fighting raged around the city, Shishi was unable to return home and relied on nightly video calls with his mother to stay connected. Struggling to adapt to the Japanese language and culture during his first years in the country, Shishi often found himself alone in parks during his free time. "I think he felt lonely," said Ikazuchi. "I tried to spend more time with him and told him he was part of the family." Gradually, Shishi began to open up. Now, Shishi spends most of his free time at Ikazuchi's home, helping with paperwork and playing with his stablemaster's children, whom he affectionately calls "brother" and "sister." Since he began his sumo career in Japan, Shishi has been sending money home to his parents even during his days as a lower-ranked wrestler when his earnings were modest. After his significant promotion, Shishi expressed his gratitude to his family in the war-torn country, vowing to continue supporting them.
