Ozeki Takakeisho threw away his outright lead at the New Year Grand Sumo Tournament on Wednesday as No. 8 maegashira Onosho pulled even at two losses on the 11th day.
Takakeisho (9-2) lacked power and backed off following his opening charge against new komusubi Kotonowaka (5-6) before a quick charge forward seemed to have recovered his position at Ryogoku Kokugikan.
The ozeki, however, showed no real attacking creativity. He hesitated, could not withstand Kotonowaka's shoves and was pushed down off the raised ring.
Onosho (9-2) downed fellow in-form wrestler No. 13 Kotoshoho (8-3) to join Takakeisho in the tournament lead.
Onosho's initial charge was thwarted by Kotoshoho, but he kept his cool, and moved backward slightly before securing victory with a right-handed beltless arm throw.
Veteran No. 2 Tamawashi joined Kotoshoho at 8-3, overcoming a tenacious effort from No. 5 Nishikigi (7-4) in a hard-earned push-out win to secure his winning record for the tournament.
Sekiwake Hoshoryu (7-4), who missed his bout on Tuesday due to a sprained left ankle, returned to the raised ring and comfortably forced out No. 4 Nishikifuji (3-8).
Sekiwake Shodai (5-6), who cannot reach the 10 wins he needed to return to ozeki, easily shoved out No. 4 Sadanoumi (3-8).
Komusubi Kiribayama (7-4) showed nimble footwork and swung out sekiwake Wakatakakage (5-6) with an arm bar throw.
New komusubi Wakamotoharu (6-5) fell to a late thrust-down from No. 1 Daieisho (7-4), while komusubi Meisei (4-7) survived an early dodging move from Midorifuji (5-6) to force the No. 3 out.
Related coverage:
Sumo: Takakeisho takes care of Meisei to remain sole leader
Sumo: Okinoumi announces retirement after exiting New Year meet
