Mongolian grappler Hoshoryu was pushed to the brink by Abi but recovered to record an all-important win on Day 1 at Tokyo's Ryogoku Kokugikan.
The Mongolian will look to shine in his ozeki debut at the 15-day Autumn Basho. Compatriot Kirishima and others will also be looking to contend.
Mongolian sekiwake Hoshoryu also virtually secured promotion to sumo's second-highest rank of ozeki for September’s tournament.
With one week to go in the Nagoya Basho, Hoshoryu is in a strong position to secure promotion to ozeki, sumo’s second-highest rank.
After winning the Summer Basho in Tokyo with a 14-1 record in May, yokozuna Terunofuji is hoping for more of the same in Nagoya.
Shishi, a 26-year-old from Melitopol, must contend with strong opposition at the Nagoya Grand Sumo Tournament and concern for his loved ones.
Mongolian-born sumo wrestler Kiribayama, who won the Emperor's Cup at the Spring Basho in March, has changed his ring name to Kirishima.