Toyonoshima won a battle against Baruto, Kaio put on another sumo clinic and Hakuho dispensed with Tochiozan on Thursday, leaving three wrestlers tied for the lead at 11-1 with three days remaining at the Kyushu Grand Sumo Tournament.
Toyonoshima, a former sekiwake who is currently a No. 9 maegashira, pulled off the improbable after the Estonian ozeki got a superior grip on his mawashi in the day's penultimate bout at Fukuoka Kokusai Center.
Baruto backed his opponent to the edge but his right foot contorted and gave way after Toyonoshima reacted with a twisting underarm throw to send the ozeki to one knee and limping off the dohyo.
Baruto, who is aiming for his first career title, slipped back in the title race at 10-2.