Sekiwake Mitakeumi maintained his perfect record and the sole lead Sunday, the midway point of the 15-day Nagoya Grand Sumo Tournament.

Mitakeumi (8-0) defeated No. 2 maegashira Chiyonokuni (4-4) in the tournament at Dolphins Arena with all three yokozuna out of action. Chiyonokuni forced the fan-favorite sekiwake toward the edge and tried to slap him down.

However, Mitakeumi, who has never lost to Chiyonokuni, wrapped his arms around him and forced him out.