Sumo Champion Akebono Gets the Better of Konishiki

Grand champion Akebono beat fellow American Konishiki on Saturday to improve his record to 13-1 and protect his lead in the Nagoya Grand Sumo tournament with one day remaining.

Akebono’s closest rivals, at 12-2, were Takanohana and his older brother Wakanohana.

Akebono wrestles Takanohana today, and Wakanohana will take on Konishiki.

Akebono, whose real name is Chad Rowan, was in control throughout his bout with Konishiki. He survived the initial charge, sidestepped to the right and pulled the 500-pound-plus opponent out of the circle.