Asashoryu dismantled Estonian giant Baruto on Thursday to remain in total control with three days of action left at the New Year Grand Sumo Tournament.

Baruto (7-5) made a bright start in the day's finale at Ryogoku Kokugikan and quickly clamped onto the back of Asashoryu's belt, but the Mongolian yokozuna hit back and bundled the sekiwake out of the ring with minimal fuss to stay one win ahead of idle yokozuna Hakuko on 12-0.

Asashoryu has already silenced his critics on his return from an elbow injury that forced him out of part or all of the last three tournaments and is looking to have the final word by claiming his 23rd Emperor's Cup here.