Kakuryu kicked off the Summer Grand Sumo Tournament on a winning note Sunday, collecting an opening-day victory in front of a sellout crowd at the first basho of Japan's new imperial era.
Kakuryu, carrying the burden as the sole yokozuna at Ryogoku Kokugikan following Hakuho's withdrawal, looked more than convincing against Mitakeumi in the final bout of the first tournament of the Reiwa Era, which began May 1.
The 33-year-old Mongolian drew roaring cheers from the full house after driving the komusubi straight from the ring in typical yokozuna fashion.