Yokozuna Hakuho survived an epic encounter against Estonian giant Baruto, outfoxing his opponent to retain his undefeated mark on the 10th day of the Spring Grand Sumo Tournament on Tuesday.
With the victory the sole leader improved to 10-0 with just five days left at the 15-day tourney, and put more space between himself and the closest men in the title race as he bids to win his 24th career Emperor's Cup.
Rank-and-filer Okinoumi is the only wrestler now with a fighting chance of catching Hakuho at 8-2, but such a scenario is highly unlikely unless the yokozuna were to suffer a meltdown.