Yokozuna Grand Champion Harumafuji has reportedly told police that he hit a lower-ranked wrestler with his bare hands, not with a beer bottle as was reported.

Police questioned Harumafuji on Friday. He was reported to have assaulted Takanoiwa while out drinking during a local sumo tour last month.

Sources say Harumafuji was lecturing Takanoiwa about his attitude, and lost his temper when the junior wrestler continued using his phone during the talk.

Police say Harumafuji admitted in questioning that he was drunk and hit Takanoiwa several times with his bare hands. He reportedly offered his apologies to the lower-ranked wrestler.

But Harumafuji denied using a beer bottle in the assault, as several sources said he had.

Police say they will continue to investigate the situation leading up to the assault.

Source: ANNnewsCH