Akebono wins showdown,
ninth sumo title

TOKYO -- Akebono, or Chad Rowan from Hawaii, beat Takanohana twice yesterday, first forcing a playoff and then winning the championship showdown in the 15-day Summer Grand Sumo Tournament.

It was the 27-year-old Akebono's ninth tournament title but his first since the 1995 spring tournament.

Musashimaru, or Fiamalu Penitani from Hawaii, wound up at 9-6 after losing to Takanonami.

Konishiki, or Salevaa Atisanoe from Hawaii, finished at 8-7 as he was pulled down by No. 11 maegashira Kitakachidoki (7-8). Yamato, or George Kalima from Hawaii, slapped down No. 12 maegashira Asahiyutaka (9-6) and ended at 7-8.