TOKYO — Harumafuji defeated grand champion Hakuho in an all-Mongolian playoff on Sunday to win his first Emperor's Cup on the final day of the Summer Grand Sumo Tournament.

Harumafuji, who was promoted to sumo's second highest rank of ozeki last year, defeated Kotooshu of Bulgaria in his final bout of regulation to improve to 14-1. He then faced Hakuho in an extra deciding bout after the grand champion defeated Asashoryu of Mongolia to finish with the same record.

"I just tried to stay focused on my style of sumo," Harumafuji said after receiving the Emperor's Cup from Japanese Prime Minister Taro Aso.

Hakuho, who won the Spring Grand Sumo Tournament in March, was bidding for his 11th title but was put on the defensive when Harumafuji almost sent him down with an arm throw.

Hakuho recovered momentarily but eventually lost his balance and touched the dirt surface with his hand after another arm throw by Harumafuji.

Grand champion Asashoryu was looking for his 24th title before losing to Aminishiki, Hakuho and Harumafuji.

Japan's ancient sport has been dominated by Mongolians in recent years and Harumafuji becomes the latest to win the Emperor's Cup.

A Japanese wrestler hasn't won the title since January 2006 when ozeki Tochiazuma took the title.