Mongolian yokozuna Hakuho passed arguably his toughest test with flying colors Sunday, beating rival yokozuna Asashoryu in a final showdown to win his third straight title with victory at the New Year Grand Sumo Tournament.

For compatriot Asashoryu, who was on a comeback from a two-tournament ban in the hunt for his 22nd Emperor's Cup, an amazing 15-day effort just was not enough this time around against the junior yokozuna.

Hakuho, who finished with a mark of 14-1, won his sixth career title. Asashoryu finished his campaign on 13-2.