The Mongolian yokozuna pair appear to be heading for a climatic rumble at the New Year Grand Sumo Tournament.
With two days remaining, grand champion Asashoryu shot down ozeki Kotomitsuki (7-6), while rival yokozuna Hakuho disposed of veteran ozeki Kaio to remain in a dead heat for the lead with 12-1 records at Ryogoku Kokugikan on Friday.
Kotomitsuki appeared to have the advantage when he got in with two hands for a firm belt grip and pushed the yokozuna to the edge, but Asashoryu remained composed and executed a perfectly timed belt throw on the second charge as the two men sailed over the ridge.