Kotonishiki, Akebono share the lead at 12 wins

2 days remain in the race.

• Komusubi Kotonishiki12-1 ・ W8
• Ozeki Akebono12-1 ・ W7

Kotofuji (Maegashira 11) beat Terao (Maegashira 2) by Tsukiotoshi — pre-basho ratings gave just a 33% chance.

• Maegashira 11 Kotofuji5-8

Kadoban ozeki Kirishima withdrew at 1-7-5. With no path to a winning record, demotion to sekiwake is certain.

• Ozeki Kirishima1-7-5 ・ kadoban #4―――――

8 rikishi had their winning or losing records decided today.

• Maegashira 13 Kasugafujikachi-koshi (8-5)
• Maegashira 10 Takanonamikachi-koshi (8-5)
• Maegashira 11 Kiraihomake-koshi (5-8)
• Maegashira 10 Kotoinazumamake-koshi (5-8)
• Maegashira 4 Wakanohanakachi-koshi (8-5)
• Maegashira 2 Teraomake-koshi (5-8)
• Maegashira 1 Daishohokachi-koshi (8-5)
• Maegashira 6 Kotonowakamake-koshi (5-8)

• Takanohana (Sekiwake, 9-4) vs Akebono (Ozeki, 12-1) →head-to-head: Takanohana leads 24-24; the rating model gives Takanohana 53%; Belt Grinder vs Forward Pusher — style matchup is even
• Musashimaru (Sekiwake, 9-4) vs Akinoshima (Sekiwake, 5-8) →head-to-head: Musashimaru leads 32-11; the rating model gives Musashimaru 61%; Forward Pusher vs Thrower — style matchup slightly favors Akinoshima
• Kotonishiki (Komusubi, 12-1) vs Toyonoumi (Maegashira 7, 9-4) →head-to-head: Kotonishiki leads 7-2; the rating model gives Kotonishiki 79%