The Reason This Major Sumo Event is Being Held in London
The Grand Sumo Tournament
Venue: The Royal Albert Hall, the British Capital. Schedule: 15-19 October
Understanding Sumo Wrestling
Sumo embodies Japan's iconic national sport, blending custom, discipline and Shinto religious rituals dating back more than 1,000 years.
This physical contest features two wrestlers – known as rikishi – competing within a circular arena – the dohyo – measuring 4.55m (14.9 ft) across.
Various rituals take place both preceding and following every match, highlighting the ceremonial aspects in sumo.
Customarily prior to competition, an opening is created at the center of the dohyo and filled with symbolic offerings by Shinto priests.
This opening is closed, containing within divine presence. The rikishi then perform a ritual stamp and clap to drive off negative energies.
Professional sumo operates under a strict hierarchy, and the wrestlers involved commit completely to the sport – residing and practicing communally.
The London Location
The Grand Sumo Tournament is being held internationally for just the second time, as the tournament taking place in London from Wednesday, 15 October until Sunday, 19 October.
The British capital with this iconic venue previously held the 1991 edition – the first time such an event was staged outside Japan in the sport's history.
Clarifying the decision behind going overseas, sumo leadership expressed the intention to "convey with London audiences the appeal of Sumo – an ancient traditional Japanese culture".
Sumo has experienced substantial growth in international interest globally in recent years, with overseas events potentially enhancing the appeal of traditional Japan internationally.
Sumo Bout Mechanics
The fundamental regulations of sumo are quite simple. The bout is decided once a wrestler is forced out from the ring or touches the floor using anything besides their foot soles.
Matches can conclude in a fraction of a second or continue several minutes.
There exist two main fighting styles. Pusher-thrusters typically shove competitors out of the ring by force, while belt-fighters choose to grip their opponent employing judo-like throws.
High-ranking rikishi often master multiple combat styles and can adapt against different styles.
Sumo includes dozens of victory moves, ranging from audacious throws strategic evasions. The variety in moves and tactics keeps audiences engaged, meaning unexpected results may happen in any bout.
Size categories do not exist within sumo, making it normal to observe wrestlers of varying dimensions. The ranking system decides opponents instead of body measurements.
Although female athletes can participate in amateur sumo globally, they're excluded from elite competitions or the main arenas.
Life as a Sumo Wrestler
Sumo wrestlers reside and practice together in training stables known as heya, led by a stable master.
Everyday life of a rikishi centers completely on sumo. They rise early dedicated to training, followed by a substantial lunch of chankonabe – a protein-rich preparation aimed at building mass – and an afternoon nap.
The average wrestler consumes between six to 10 bowls each sitting – thousands of calories – although legendary stories of massive eating exist in sumo history.
Wrestlers purposely increase mass for competitive advantage during matches. Although large, they demonstrate remarkable flexibility, quick movements and explosive power.
Nearly all elements of wrestlers' existence get controlled by their stable and governing body – creating a unique lifestyle in professional sports.
Competitive standing affects their payment, accommodation options including personal assistants.
Junior or lower ranked wrestlers perform duties around the heya, while higher ranked ones enjoy preferred treatment.
Competitive standings are established through performance during yearly events. Wrestlers with winning records move up, while those losing drop down in standing.
Prior to events, updated rankings gets published – a ceremonial list displaying everyone's status within the sport.
At the summit features the title of Yokozuna – the pinnacle position. These champions embody the essence of the sport – transcending winning.
Who Becomes a Rikishi
The sport includes 600 rikishi competing professionally, with most from Japan.
International competitors have participated significantly over years, with Mongolian athletes reaching top levels in recent times.
Top champions feature global participants, including wrestlers multiple countries achieving high ranks.
In recent news, young international aspirants have traveled to the homeland pursuing wrestling careers.
