Ozeki Takakeisho remained at the front of the pack with a hard-fought win, but sekiwake Shodai suffered an upset loss and relinquished his share of the lead at the Autumn Grand Sumo Tournament on Saturday.
Takakeisho beat No. 4 maegashira Yutakayama on Day 7 at Ryogoku Kokugikan to improve to 6-1 and establish himself as the favorite for the Emperor's Cup after the opening week of the 15-day tournament.
With yokozuna Hakuho and Kakuryu both out through injury, Takakeisho is tied at the top of the standings with rank-and-filers Kotoshoho and Tobizaru.