The debate over who is currently the top dog in Japan’s national sport doesn’t involve either of its yokozuna.

Normally that would be the hottest of hot takes, but given how things played out in Nagoya this month it’s now simply an inescapable conclusion.

Aonishiki’s remarkable return from injury, the reclaiming of his ōzeki rank and a third career Emperor’s Cup have seen the young Ukrainian become the face of the sport for many.