OSAKA -- Asashoryu, who was promoted to sumo's highest rank after capturing two consecutive Emperor's Cups, occupies the west side yokozuna slot as the Japan Sumo Association (JSA) released its rankings for the upcoming Spring Grand Sumo Tournament on Monday.
Together with Musashimaru, it will be the first time that two foreign-born wrestlers reside in the two top positions in sumo.
Asashoryu, who became the first Mongolian to attain yokozuna status after posting impressive 14-1 records at two straight tournaments, however, appears to have an edge over Musashimaru, who is doubtful for the March 9-23 meet at Osaka Prefectural Gymnasium.