Mongolian Yokozuna Harumafuji dominated the15 day hatsu basho, Grand Sumo Tournament and won the highest rank, as Yokozuna. This is the fifth time Harumafuji has won his career title. It was obvious he would again achieve the title after Harumafuji had 14 wins, defeating Ozeki Kakuryu on the day before the final round.

On the last day of the tournament Harumafuji vowed to defeat his rival Yokozuna Hakuho in the 15th round in the final match on Jan 27th. But  Sumo Grand Champion yokozuna Hakuho ended hatsu basho with 12 wins and 3 lost.