Sumo
Star-Bulletin news services
Asashoryu wins first
title as yokozunaTOKYO >> Mongolian Asashoryu wrapped up his first Emperor's Cup as a yokozuna after Musoyama slapped down Kaio on the final day of the Summer Grand Sumo Tournament.
In the penultimate bout at Ryogoku Kokugikan, Musoyama came charging out of the blocks to force Kaio back several steps before swatting his fellow ozeki down.
Asashoryu, who was promoted to grand champion in January to become the first Mongolian to occupy sumo's highest rank, had to wait a while for his first tournament win as a yokozuna.
Before becoming grand champion, the 22-year-old Mongolian won two Emperor's Cups but failed to capture one in his debut in March.
It's been a roller-coaster week for the fiery Mongolian.
On Wednesday, Asashoryu was warned by sumo officials to tone down his act after he bumped Kyokushuzan on the raised ring and then whipping part of his belt in the direction of his fellow Mongolian.
Akinoshima, who finished with a 6-9 record, closed out a 21-year career in which he went as high as sekiwake and established a reputation as a giant-killer with wins over yokozunas Musashimaru and Akebono.
For more sumo information online, try:
Da Kine Sumo E-zine
Grand Sumo Home Page
CyberSumo
Kyodo News Service