Promotion-seeking sekiwake Hoshoryu remained tied for the lead with rank-and-filers Nishikigi and Hokutofuji after all three improved to 8-1 at the Nagoya Grand Sumo Tournament on Monday.
The leading trio, each gunning for a maiden top-division championship, became the first wrestlers to secure winning records at the 15-day meet in front of a packed public holiday crowd at Dolphins Arena.
Aiming to move up to the second-highest rank of ozeki, Hoshoryu stayed composed to avoid an upset loss against No. 5 maegashira Hiradoumi (3-6). The 24-year-old Mongolian balanced on one foot at the edge before toppling his opponent with a hooking inner thigh throw.
"I was able to react quickly," Hoshoryu said. "I don't care (about the winning record), I'm just taking things one bout at a time."
No. 9 Hokutofuji reached the all-important eight-win threshold for the first time since September by pushing out No. 6 Oho (3-6).
"It was a long drought," the former komusubi said. "I'm feeling much more confident and in good shape."
No. 1 Nishikigi needed to dig deep in his battle with No. 2 Mitakeumi (1-8), getting pushed back against the straw before muscling the former ozeki over the opposite edge.
"I've really surprised myself with my performance this time," said Nishikigi, who looks set for his first promotion to the three elite sanyaku ranks.
New ozeki Kirishima (3-4-2) avoided a third straight loss by thrusting down No. 3 Meisei (4-5).
Sekiwake Daieisho and Wakamotoharu, both of whom are also targeting ozeki promotion, stayed one win off the pace at 7-2. Daieisho pushed out komusubi Abi (4-5), while Wakamotoharu dispatched No. 4 Ura (4-5) by beltless arm throw.