Musashimaru alone
on top with 11-1 mark

OSAKA, Japan -- Musashimaru turned away "giant killer" Kaio today and, at 11-1, took over the sole lead in the 15-day Spring Grand Sumo Tournament when grand champion Akebono suffered an upset loss to Asanosho.

Musashimaru, or Fiamalu Penitani from Hawaii, ripped out of his crouch and knocked Kaio back to the straw ridge with a solid forearm and shoulder into the chest of the lower-ranked wrestler. Musashimaru then moved in quickly for belt control and muscled Kaio out of the ring.

Kaio, who had earlier upended both grand champions, slipped to 10-2.

In the day's final bout, Akebono, or Chad Rowan from Hawaii, started strongly with his thrusting offense but miscalculated by trying to pull Asanosho to the ring's surface. Akebono (10-2) left himself open for Asanosho to lunge forward and drive him from the ring.

Konishiki, or Salevaa Atisanoe from Hawaii, slapped Daishi to even his record at 5-5, having missed his first two bouts because of the flu.

Yamato, or George Kalima from Hawaii, dropped to 6-6 when he was thrown over by Daihisho.