 When dropped to "maegashira" 12 in September he returned to form, and after eleven days he was in second place with a 10–1 record.He then lost his next three but recovered to beat Amuuru on the final day to end with an 11–4 record and a Fighting Spirit prize.In November he produced his best performance in the top division, winning twelve matches and finishing in a three-way tie for second place.