In October of that year he transferred to the newly created Hakkaku stable run by former yokozuna Hokutoumi.

On his debut outing in makuuchi in May 2002 he made an immediate impression, finishing as runner-up with a strong 11–4 record and the fighting spirit prize.

The highlight of Hokutōriki's career came in May 2004, the only occasion when he recorded a winning score from the upper maegashira ranks.

However, he lost his senshuraku bout to Hakuhō, then in his debut top division tournament, being sidestepped by the 19-year-old after two false starts.

Nevertheless, he was rewarded with special prizes for Fighting spirit and Outstanding Performance, and after the tournament he was promoted to sumo's third highest rank of sekiwake.

Hokutōriki did not enter the May 2011 technical examination tournament, at which he had fallen to the rank of makushita 13, and announced his retirement on Day 7.

Sanshō key: F=Fighting spirit; O=Outstanding performance; T=Technique     Also shown: ★=Kinboshi; P=Playoff(s) Divisions: Makuuchi — Jūryō — Makushita — Sandanme — Jonidan — Jonokuchi