One of the lightest wrestlers in the division, Kirishima earned a reputation as a giant-killer, defeating heavyweights such as Ōnokuni and Konishiki several times. However, he seemed to struggle when promoted out of the "maegashira" ranks. After finishing tournament runner-up and winning the Technique Prize in November 1986 he was promoted to the "san'yaku" ranks for the first time at "sekiwake" in the following tournament but could only manage a 3–12 record, and when he finally managed to return to "san'yaku" at "komusubi" rank in January 1989 he recorded a dismal 1–14. However, later that year he began a new training regime. In addition to his usual practice matches at Izutsu stable, he did regular weight training at a private gymnasium, and supplemented his normal sumo diet with a specially prepared high calorie and high protein drink. His efforts paid off. He returned to "komusubi" in November 1989 scoring 10 wins, and then turned in an 11–4 mark and runner-up performance in January 1990. In March 1990 at "sekiwake" he produced a superb 13–2 record, defeating "yokozuna" Chiyonofuji (for the first time in twelve attempts) and Hokutoumi and all three "ōzeki". He took part in a rare three-way playoff with Konishiki and Hokutoumi, who had also finished on 13–2. Although Hokutoumi took the title, after the tournament Kirishima was promoted to "ōzeki". It was his second straight runner-up performance, earning him his third Outstanding Performance and fourth Technique Prizes, and a three tournament record of 34 wins and 11 losses.