The Reason This Major Sumo Event Takes Place in London
This Prestigious Sumo Competition
Location: The Royal Albert Hall, the British Capital. Schedule: October 15th through 19th
Exploring Japan's National Sport
Sumo represents Japan's iconic national sport, combining tradition, rigorous training and Shinto religious rituals with origins more than 1,000 years.
This physical contest involves two competitors – known as rikishi – competing within a circular arena – a dohyo – measuring 4.55m (14.9 ft) across.
Traditional ceremonies are performed both preceding and following each bout, highlighting the ceremonial aspects of the sport.
Traditionally prior to competition, an opening is created at the center of the ring then filled with nuts, squid, seaweed and sake by Shinto priests.
This opening gets sealed, containing within divine presence. Sumo wrestlers subsequently execute a ritual stamp with hand clapping to drive off bad spirits.
Professional sumo operates under a rigid ranking system, and the wrestlers who participate commit completely to the sport – living and training communally.
The London Location
This Major Sumo Event is taking place outside of Japan only the second occasion, with the competition occurring in London beginning October 15th until Sunday, 19 October.
The British capital and The Royal Albert Hall also hosted the 1991 edition – the first time such an event took place beyond Japan in sumo history.
Clarifying the decision for the international competition, sumo leadership stated he wanted to "convey with London audiences the appeal of Sumo – an ancient traditional Japanese culture".
Sumo has seen substantial growth in popularity among international fans in recent years, with overseas events could further boost the popularity of Japanese culture internationally.
How Sumo Matches Work
The fundamental regulations of sumo are straightforward. The bout concludes once a wrestler gets pushed of the dohyo or touches the floor with anything other than the sole of his feet.
Matches might end in a fraction of a second or last several minutes.
Sumo features two primary techniques. Aggressive pushers generally push competitors from the arena through strength, whereas grapplers choose to grip the other rikishi and use throwing techniques.
High-ranking rikishi frequently excel in multiple combat styles adjusting against different styles.
There are dozens of victory moves, including dramatic throws strategic evasions. This diversity of techniques and strategies maintains fan interest, so surprises and upsets may happen during any match.
Weight classes are not used in sumo, making it normal to see rikishi of varying dimensions. Sumo rankings decides opponents instead of body measurements.
Although female athletes can participate in amateur sumo globally, they cannot enter elite competitions including major venues.
Life as a Sumo Wrestler
Professional rikishi reside and practice together in training stables known as heya, under a head trainer.
The daily routine for wrestlers focuses entirely around the sport. They rise early dedicated to training, followed by a substantial lunch the traditional stew – a high-protein dish designed for weight gain – with rest periods.
The average wrestler consumes between six to 10 bowls per meal – thousands of calories – with notable instances of massive eating exist in sumo history.
Rikishi intentionally gain weight to enhance leverage in the ring. Despite their size, they possess remarkable flexibility, quick movements and explosive power.
Virtually every aspect of wrestlers' existence get controlled through their training house and the Sumo Association – creating a distinctive existence in professional sports.
A wrestler's ranking determines earnings, accommodation options including personal assistants.
Younger less established wrestlers handle chores around the heya, whereas senior ones enjoy special privileges.
Competitive standings are established through performance during yearly events. Successful competitors advance, while those losing drop down the rankings.
Prior to events, a new banzuke gets published – a ceremonial list showing everyone's status within the sport.
The highest level exists the rank of Grand Champion – the pinnacle position. Yokozuna represent the essence of sumo – beyond mere competition.
Sumo Wrestlers Demographics
The sport includes several hundred wrestlers competing professionally, with most from Japan.
Foreign wrestlers have been involved prominently for decades, with Mongolian athletes achieving dominance currently.
Top champions include global participants, with competitors multiple countries reaching elite status.
Recently, foreign prospects have traveled to Japan seeking wrestling careers.
