Takakeisho, who entered the New Year Grand Sumo Tournament with a shot at promotion to yokozuna, fell to his fourth straight loss on Wednesday, this time to rank-and-file opponent Takarafuji.
The ozeki went to his trusted pushing and thrusting techniques in the final bout of Day 4, but could not keep No. 2 maegashira Takarafuji directly in front of him.
After catching Takakeisho by the arm, Takarafuji (2-2) quickly sent him and his hopes for yokozuna promotion tumbling with an overarm throw.