Promotion-chasing Kakuryu kept front-running yokozuna duo Hakuho and Harumafuji in his sights with an eighth win against Takayasu at the Spring Grand Sumo Tournament on Monday.
Kakuryu stood his ground as Takayasu attempted a throw after getting a firm grip on the belt, and the Mongolian countered to send out the third-ranked maegashira and stay one win off the pace at 8-1.
Kakuryu is likely to need at least 13 wins and the championship to be considered for promotion to sumo's top rank.