No. 1 maegashira Daieisho took his first loss of the New Year Grand Sumo Tournament on Monday, allowing ozeki Shodai to close within one win of the outright lead.
Daieisho went to his trademark thrusting attack, but No. 2 Takarafuji (5-4) wheeled to the left to stay just out of reach. As he gave pursuit around the raised ring, Daieisho (8-1) lost his balance on the sandy surface, allowing Takarafuji to secure victory by slap down.
Shodai, who needs a winning record at Ryogoku Kokugikan to retain the ancient sport's second-highest rank, improved to 7-2 after withstanding a strong opening attack from No. 4 Tamawashi (5-4). The Mongolian shoved Shodai back by his neck, but the ozeki regained his balance before pushing out his opponent.