NAGOYA, Japan — Bulgaria's Kotooshu, the first European to win a major sumo title, came back from an opening-day loss and snatched his first win at the Nagoya Grand Sumo Tournament on Monday.

The 25-year-old Emperor's Cup defending champion, who is looking for promotion to sumo's highest rank of grand champion, drove out his opponent with several thrusts to rise to 1-1 in the 15-day Nagoya tournament.

Kotooshu, whose real name is Kaloyan Mahlyanov, made sumo history in May by becoming the first European to win an Emperor's Cup. He will reach the highest rank if he takes the title again this tournament.

Mongolian grand champion Asashoryu, 27, beat 20-year-old Russian wrestler Wakanoho by grabbing his belt and quickly throwing him to the ground. Fellow Mongolian grand champion Hakuho also defeated his opponent, Aminishiki, by throwing him down.

Asashoryu, who was upset on the opening day, is aiming for his 23rd Emperor's Cup. Hakuho is shooting for his seventh title. He hasn't won since beating his compatriot on the last day of the New Year's meet.

In other bouts, champion Chiyotaikai won his second bout, while veteran Kaio was twisted down to defeat. Champion Kotomitsuki also won.