Leader Takayasu suffered his second defeat on Saturday, allowing his closest title rival Wakatakakage to pull even with him at the Spring Grand Sumo Tournament and set up an intriguing final day.

The title race was whittled down to three contenders after 14 days at Edion Arena Osaka with former ozeki Takayasu and new sekiwake Wakatakakage joined by No. 6 maegashira Kotonowaka, who is one win back with three defeats.

Takayasu (12-2), currently wrestling as a No. 7 maegashira, appeared to be taking another step toward his maiden Emperor's Cup as he started strong against demotion-threatened ozeki Shodai.