Takanohana still
one up on Akebono

NAGOYA, Japan -- Akebono, or Chad Rowan from Hawaii, narrowly defeated Wakanohana today, staying one victory behind fellow yokozuna (grand champion) Takanohana's 11-1 record in the 15-day Nagoya Grand Sumo Tournament.

Two victories behind Takanohana at 9-3 were ozeki (champion) Musashimaru, or Fiamalu Penitani from Hawaii, and No. 1 maegashira (senior wrestler) Takatoriki.

Akebono grabbed ozeki Wakanohana's belt and sent him plunging out of the ring after fighting off his arm-throw attempt at the ring's edge.

Akebono and Wakanohana hit the dirt at almost the same time, but the five judges confirmed that Wakanohana fell faster than Akebono.

Takanohana fought off a series of hand thrusts and pulling attempts and sent out Tamakasuga in a bout that lasted more than 40 seconds. A sumo bout usually lasts 10 to 15 seconds.

Musashimaru pushed out Akinoshima.

Konishiki, or Salevaa Atisanoe from Hawaii, bulldozed out Kotoryu, evening his record at 6-6.

Yamato, or George Kalima from Hawaii, fell to 3-9 when he was thrown down by Rikio.