Yokozuna Kisenosato's faltering career can only be considered to be hanging by a thread now after he was dealt his second loss two days into the New Year Grand Sumo Tournament on Monday in Tokyo.
Kisenosato, desperately looking to achieve the success expected of those holding the sport's highest rank, was slapped down by burly No. 1 maegashira Ichinojo to only fuel speculation that his days are numbered.
Kisenosato pulled out of the previous Kyushu tournament in November after losing his first four bouts. He has now lost seven consecutive matches -- not including a forfeit -- dating back to the September tourney.
It was mixed results for the other two yokozuna, Hakuho and Kakuryu, as the former barely escaped with a victory while the latter was dealt a one-sided loss. Both are returning to action after skipping the Kyushu tournament.
The 33-year-old Hakuho (2-0) showed some deftness when, forced to the edge, he executed a 360-degree spin to avoid defeat and suddenly get behind No. 1 maegashira Tochiozan, who was in no position to resist.
Kakuryu (1-1) succumbed to the power of komusubi Mitakeumi, the conqueror of Kisenosato on the opening day. Mitakeumi fought off a stiff-arm to the face to force the yokozuna out of the ring.
It was another tough day for the ozeki trio, as only Takayasu could avoid a second straight loss. He defeated komusubi Myogiryu, while No. 2 maegashira Nishikigi followed up his victory over ozeki Goeido on the opening day by knocking off Tochinoshin. Goeido was forced out by No. 2 maegashira Hokutofuji on Monday.
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