Undefeated sekiwake Mitakeumi easily forced out No. 4 maegashira Okinoumi on Monday to hold onto the outright lead at the New Year Grand Sumo Tournament.
The two-time grand tournament winner remained one win ahead of yokozuna Terunofuji, who overpowered No. 4 Hokutofuji in the final bout on Day 9 at Ryogoku Kokugikan.
Mitakeumi met little resistance as he improved to a perfect 9-0, flying out of the blocks and sliding Okinoumi (2-7) straight over the straw.