For the first time in over 38 years, the Japan Sumo Association's rankings, published Monday, have only one wrestler at the sport's second-highest rank of ozeki. But if sekiwake Asanoyama has his way, that situation will soon be remedied.

After going 11-4 in November and 10-5 in January, 12 wins at the March 8-22 Spring Grand Sumo Tournament at Edion Arena Osaka should be enough to earn him a bump up to ozeki. Asanoyama, who turns 26 on Sunday, leads the sekiwake pair from the more prestigious east side of the rankings table.

"There is another spot available for ozeki. I want to make the most of this opportunity," Asanoyama told a press conference on Monday. "I'm aiming for not just 12 wins but more."