Tochinoshin snatched a one-match lead Thursday after yokozunaKakuryu suffered his second loss in as many days at the New Year Grand Sumo Tournament.
The No. 3 maegashira, who entered Day 12 of the 15-day tournament tied with Kakuryu, earned his fifth straight win at Ryogoku Kokugikan when he forced out sekiwake Tamawashi (4-8).
After a fierce exchange of slaps and pushes Tamawashi appeared to have the advantage, driving Tochinoshin back with a hand to the throat before knocking him off balance. But the powerful Georgian kept his footing and his composure, outmuscling his higher-ranked opponent to secure the victory.