The Japan Sumo Association has demoted former Yokozuna grand champion Hakuho as a sumo elder over repeated acts of violence by a wrestler in his stable.

The association launched a probe after receiving a tip via social media in January about the conduct of top Makunouchi division wrestler Hokuseiho. It says the 22-year-old has admitted to slapping the face of two junior wrestlers and striking them with a broom handle.

The association faulted Hakuho, now sumo elder Miyagino, for failing to report the abuse and for allowing an outside party to interfere with the probe.

At an extraordinary board meeting on Friday, the association demoted Hakuho by two ranks to the lowest for sumo elders, citing his supervisory responsibility. Hakuho will also face a pay cut.

A stablemaster of the Isegahama group will serve as the Miyagino stable's acting chief for the Spring Grand Sumo Tournament that opens in March. The Isegahama group will continue to oversee the stable beyond April.

The association says it will study whether to have Hakuho undergo guidance and education as a stablemaster.

It says it has accepted Hokuseiho's offer to retire, adding that it would have recommended the move if the wrestler had not done so voluntarily.

Hakuho won a record 45 tournaments during his prolific career. He retired three years ago and became the head of the Miyagino stable in July 2022.