Sumo

By Associated Press

Monday, January 20, 1997

Akebono, Musashimaru
and Wakanohana
share lead at 9-0

TOKYO - Akebono and Musashimaru, both from Hawaii, and Wakanohana, maintained a three-way tie for the lead with a perfect 9-0 record today, the ninth day of the 15-day New Year Grand Sumo Tournament.

The closest rivals of the three were yokozuna (grand champion) Takanohana and No. 1 maegashira (senior wrestler) Takatoriki, each with seven wins to two losses.

Wrestling at the Ryogoku Kokugikan Sumo Arena in downtown Tokyo, yokozuna Akebono, or Chad Rowan, charged at sekiwake (junior champion) Kaio with hand thrusts, fought off his foe's arm throw attempt and toppled him. Kaio is 4-5.

Ozeki Musashimaru, or Fiamalu Penitani, thrust his hand at No. 1 maegashira Tosanoumi's throat and shoved him down, handing Tosanoumi his fourth defeat against five victories.

No. 13 maegashira Konishiki, or Salevaa Atisanoe of Hawaii, forced out No. 9 maegashira Minatofuji (4-5) for his fifth win against four defeats.

No. 14 maegashira Yamato, or George Kalima of Hawaii, twisted down No. 12 maegashira Kotoinazuma for his fourth win against five defeats.