The race for the Emperor's Cup at the Spring Grand Sumo Tournament will go down to the final day with undefeated yokozuna Hakuho and fourth-ranked maegashira Ichinojo both winning on Saturday.
In the penultimate day of the 15-day meet at Edion Arena Osaka, Hakuho, seeking a record-extending 42nd title, defeated ozeki Takayasu (10-4). Ichinojo, trailing Hakuho by one win, remained in the hunt for his first championship by beating rising star Takakeisho (9-5).
Needing a win to avoid falling into a tie for the lead, Hakuho built up to his match against Takayasu with a prolonged staring contest. But when the action started, it was fast and furious.