TOKYO (AP) -- Grand champion Hakuho's nine-bout winning streak crashed to an end Tuesday, leaving ozeki Kotooshu in sole possession of the lead at the Summer Grand Sumo Tournament.

Hakuho lost in an improbable upset to a tenacious Ama, who forced the Mongolian yokozuna off kilter after the faceoff and sent him flying into the seats with an explosive overarm throw.

It was the biggest win so far for the 24-year-old sekiwake Ama, who was overcome with emotion after the bout.

"I'm just so happy," a teary Ama told national broadcaster NHK, describing how he had to be reactive to win. "(Hakuho) is bigger than me, so I waited for him to move first."

Ama improves to 6-4, while Hakuho drops to 9-1 for a share of second place with archrival Asashoryu.

Kotooshu improved to 10-0 in his impressive run after the 25-year-old Bulgarian began the 15-day meet facing demotion if he failed to post a winning record.

Now Kotooshu is in the running for his first Emperor's Cup and is on his best winning streak since being promoted to ozeki in January 2006.

He looked in top form again on Tuesday as he tackled No. 3 Kakuryu from behind and drove him into the ground.

Kotooshu's biggest test yet comes Wednesday against Mongolian yokozuna Asashoryu, who at 9-1 remains in contention for his 23rd Emperor's Cup.

Since a shocking opening-day loss, Asashoryu has regained momentum with nine straight victories. He comfortably dispensed with Kotoshogiku, driving the sekiwake out of the ring on Tuesday. Kotoshogiku slips to 6-4.

No. 2 maegashira Kyokutenho scored the second big upset of the day with a win over ozeki Kaio. The Mongolian improves to 2-8, while Kaio evens his record to 5-5.

In a battle of two ozeki, Kotomitsuki prevailed over Chiyotaikai with a pulling overarm throw.

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