Why the Grand Sumo Tournament is Being Held in London
This Prestigious Sumo Competition
Location: This Historic London Venue, London. Schedule: 15-19 October
Exploring Sumo Wrestling
Sumo embodies Japan's iconic national sport, combining custom, discipline and ancient spiritual practices dating back more than 1,000 years.
This combat sport involves two competitors – called rikishi – competing inside a raised circular ring – the dohyo – measuring 4.55m (14.9 ft) across.
Traditional ceremonies are performed before and after each bout, highlighting the traditional nature in sumo.
Customarily prior to competition, a hole is created at the center of the dohyo and filled with symbolic offerings through Shinto ceremonies.
This opening is closed, containing within divine presence. Sumo wrestlers subsequently execute a ceremonial stomp with hand clapping to drive off bad spirits.
Elite sumo is governed a rigid ranking system, and the wrestlers involved commit completely to it – residing and practicing communally.
Why London?
The Grand Sumo Tournament is taking place outside of Japan for just the second time, as the tournament occurring in London beginning October 15th until Sunday, 19 October.
London and The Royal Albert Hall previously held the 1991 edition – marking the initial occasion such an event was staged outside Japan in sumo history.
Clarifying the decision for the international competition, the Japan Sumo Association chair stated the intention to share with London audiences sumo's attraction – a historic Japanese tradition".
The sport has seen a significant rise in international interest among international fans in recent years, and a rare international tournament potentially enhancing the appeal of traditional Japan internationally.
How Sumo Matches Work
The fundamental regulations in sumo wrestling are quite simple. The match concludes when a rikishi gets pushed from the ring or makes contact using anything besides the sole of his feet.
Matches might end almost instantly or last several minutes.
Sumo features two main fighting styles. Aggressive pushers typically shove competitors from the arena by force, whereas grapplers prefer to grapple their opponent employing throwing techniques.
Elite wrestlers frequently excel in various techniques adjusting to their opponents.
Sumo includes dozens of victory moves, ranging from audacious throws to clever side-steps. The variety of techniques and strategies keeps audiences engaged, so surprises and upsets can occur in any bout.
Size categories are not used in sumo, so it's common to see rikishi of varying dimensions. Sumo rankings determine matchups instead of physical attributes.
Although female athletes can participate in non-professional sumo globally, they're excluded from professional tournaments including major venues.
Rikishi Lifestyle
Professional rikishi reside and practice together in training stables known as heya, led by a head trainer.
The daily routine for wrestlers focuses entirely around the sport. Early mornings dedicated to training, followed by a large meal of chankonabe – a high-protein dish designed for weight gain – and an afternoon nap.
Typical rikishi eats approximately multiple servings each sitting – approximately 10,000 calories – with notable instances of extreme consumption are documented.
Wrestlers intentionally gain weight for competitive advantage during matches. Despite their size, they demonstrate surprising agility, quick movements with strong bursts.
Nearly all elements of wrestlers' existence get controlled through their training house and governing body – creating a distinctive existence in professional sports.
A wrestler's ranking affects earnings, accommodation options and even support staff.
Junior or lower ranked wrestlers perform duties around the heya, whereas senior competitors receive preferred treatment.
Sumo rankings are established by results during yearly events. Successful competitors move up, unsuccessful ones drop down in standing.
Before each tournament, a new banzuke gets published – a traditional document showing all wrestlers' positions within the sport.
At the summit exists the rank of Grand Champion – the ultimate achievement. Yokozuna represent the spirit of the sport – transcending winning.
Sumo Wrestlers Demographics
There are approximately several hundred wrestlers competing professionally, with most from Japan.
Foreign wrestlers have participated significantly over years, including Mongolian wrestlers reaching top levels currently.
Current Yokozuna feature international representatives, with competitors multiple countries reaching elite status.
In recent news, young international aspirants have journeyed to Japan seeking wrestling careers.
