Mongolian-born ozeki Hakuho underwent treatment at a hospital for a possible fractured toe on his left foot, meaning he is doubtful for the Kyushu Grand Sumo Tournament starting later this month, his stable elder Kumagatani said Friday.
The ozeki apparently had an accident on Wednesday, stubbing his big toe on some steps at a park at a practice site after taking part in a training session and had minor surgery the next day.
It is questionable whether he will be ready for the Kyushu meet getting under way at Fukuoka Kokusai Center on Nov. 12.
Hakuho flirted with promotion to yokozuna after a 13-2 performance in July but has appeared out of kilter as of late. He has won one Emperor's Cup title at sumo's second-highest rank but had an unflattering 8-7 showing at the Autumn basho in September.