Why the Grand Sumo Tournament is Being Held in London
This Prestigious Sumo Competition
Location: The Royal Albert Hall, London. Dates: 15-19 October
Exploring Sumo Wrestling
Sumo embodies Japan's iconic national sport, combining tradition, rigorous training and ancient spiritual practices with origins more than 1,000 years.
This combat sport involves two competitors – known as rikishi – battling inside a raised circular ring – the dohyo – measuring 4.55m (14.9 ft) across.
Traditional ceremonies take place both preceding and following every match, emphasizing the ceremonial aspects in sumo.
Traditionally before a match, an opening is created in the center of the ring and filled with symbolic offerings through Shinto ceremonies.
This opening is closed, containing within a spirit. The rikishi subsequently execute a ritual stamp with hand clapping to drive off negative energies.
Professional sumo is governed a strict hierarchy, with competitors who participate commit completely to the sport – residing and practicing in group settings.
Why London?
The Grand Sumo Tournament is taking place outside of Japan for just the second time, with the competition occurring in London from Wednesday, 15 October until Sunday, 19 October.
The British capital and The Royal Albert Hall also hosted the 1991 edition – the first time such an event was staged beyond Japan in sumo history.
Clarifying the decision for the international competition, sumo leadership expressed he wanted to "convey with London audiences sumo's attraction – a historic Japanese tradition".
The sport has experienced substantial growth in popularity among international fans recently, with overseas events potentially enhancing the popularity of traditional Japan internationally.
Sumo Bout Mechanics
The fundamental regulations of sumo are quite simple. The match is decided once a wrestler gets pushed from the ring or makes contact with anything other than their foot soles.
Bouts can conclude almost instantly or continue several minutes.
Sumo features two primary techniques. Aggressive pushers generally push competitors from the arena by force, while belt-fighters choose to grip their opponent and use judo-like throws.
Elite wrestlers often master multiple combat styles adjusting to their opponents.
Sumo includes dozens of victory moves, including dramatic throws strategic evasions. The variety of techniques and strategies keeps audiences engaged, meaning unexpected results may happen in any bout.
Size categories are not used in sumo, making it normal to observe wrestlers of varying dimensions. The ranking system determine matchups rather than body measurements.
Although female athletes can participate in non-professional sumo globally, they cannot enter professional tournaments including major venues.
Rikishi Lifestyle
Sumo wrestlers live and train together in training stables known as heya, under a stable master.
Everyday life of a rikishi focuses entirely around the sport. Early mornings for intense practice, then consuming a substantial lunch the traditional stew – a high-protein dish aimed at building mass – with rest periods.
The average wrestler eats approximately six to 10 bowls each sitting – approximately 10,000 calories – although legendary stories of massive eating are documented.
Wrestlers intentionally gain weight for competitive advantage during matches. Despite their size, they demonstrate remarkable flexibility, quick movements and explosive power.
Nearly all elements of rikishi life are regulated by their stable and the Sumo Association – creating a unique lifestyle in professional sports.
Competitive standing affects earnings, accommodation options including personal assistants.
Younger less established rikishi handle chores around the heya, while higher ranked ones enjoy preferred treatment.
Competitive standings are established by results in six annual tournaments. Wrestlers with winning records advance, unsuccessful ones drop down in standing.
Prior to events, a new banzuke are released – a traditional document displaying everyone's status in professional sumo.
At the summit features the title of Grand Champion – the ultimate achievement. These champions embody the spirit of sumo – transcending winning.
Sumo Wrestlers Demographics
There are approximately several hundred wrestlers in professional sumo, with most from Japan.
Foreign wrestlers have participated prominently over years, including Mongolian wrestlers reaching top levels currently.
Current Yokozuna feature international representatives, with competitors multiple countries reaching elite status.
Recently, foreign prospects have traveled to the homeland seeking wrestling careers.