Former ozeki Takayasu, who has led the Spring Grand Sumo Tournament since Day 1, regained the sole lead on Friday with his 12th win.
Takayasu, currently a No. 7 maegashira, entered the 13th day of the 15-day meet at Edion Arena Osaka tied with new sekiwake Wakatakakage (11-2), who lost the preceding bout to new ozeki Mitakeumi (10-3).
Against Takakeisho (8-5), the sport’s top pushing and shoving master, Takayasu refused to be cornered. He sparred with the ozeki, keeping Takakeisho from building up a head of steam while constantly presenting a moving target.
Day13: Sumo delivers! Takayasu (L) is in driver’s seat vs ōzeki Takakeishō. SPOILER, WTK lost giving Yasu a chance to take sole lead at 12-1. Admit it, you’re asking, “will Yasu choke?” Let’s find out. TY/TKS matchup is pretty even but TKS has won last three straight. #harubasho pic.twitter.com/ZQ1gVDBEWl
— Sumo Soul 相撲魂 (@TheSumoSoul) March 25, 2022
Takayasu, who has long excelled at moving laterally, repeatedly outflanked his opponent, seized a belt hold and finished off the ozeki with a slick overarm throw.
“I was able to execute some high-paced sumo,” said Takayasu, who is aiming for his first career grand tournament championship.
Wakatakakage, a speedy powerful and unpredictable wrestler, was quickly cornered. On the opening charge, Mitakeumi lodged both of his arms under his opponent’s, and remained in complete control until forcing him out.
The win keeps the ozeki in the hunt for a second straight championship to add to his victory in January.
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