Mongolian grand champion Hakuho was hit with a shock first-day defeat at the hands of komusubi Kotoshogiku at the Kyushu Grand Sumo Tournament on Sunday.
Hakuho, who is the sole yokozuna in the absence of suspension-hit Asashoryu, was sent out on the opening day in his second consecutive tournament after a sluggish jump at the face-off at Fukuoka Kokusai Center.
Kotoshogiku moved in quickly with a right-handed grip and steamed ahead as Hakuho inadvertently stepped over the ridge with one foot while attempting a throw.
Hakuho, who is gaining the reputation of a slow starter, lost to Ama on the first day of the autumn basho in September before rebounding to win his fourth career title.