The Reason the Grand Sumo Tournament is Being Held in London
This Prestigious Sumo Competition
Venue: This Historic London Venue, London. Schedule: 15-19 October
Understanding Japan's National Sport
Sumo embodies Japan's iconic national sport, combining custom, discipline and Shinto religious rituals with origins over a millennium.
This physical contest involves two competitors – called rikishi – battling within a circular arena – the dohyo – measuring 4.55m (14.9 ft) in diameter.
Various rituals take place both preceding and following each bout, highlighting the ceremonial aspects in sumo.
Traditionally before a match, a hole is made in the center of the dohyo and filled with nuts, squid, seaweed and sake by Shinto priests.
This opening gets sealed, containing within a spirit. The rikishi then perform a ceremonial stomp and clap to scare away negative energies.
Elite sumo operates under a strict hierarchy, and the wrestlers involved commit completely to the sport – living and training in group settings.
The London Location
The Grand Sumo Tournament is being held outside of Japan 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 a tournament was staged outside Japan in sumo history.
Explaining the reasoning behind going overseas, the Japan Sumo Association chair stated he wanted to share to the people of London sumo's attraction – a historic Japanese tradition".
Sumo has seen a significant rise in popularity among international fans in recent years, with overseas events potentially enhancing the popularity of traditional Japan internationally.
How Sumo Matches Work
The fundamental regulations of sumo are quite simple. The bout is decided once a wrestler gets pushed of the dohyo or makes contact using anything besides the sole of his feet.
Bouts might end almost instantly or continue several minutes.
There exist two primary techniques. Aggressive pushers typically shove competitors from the arena through strength, while belt-fighters choose to grip their opponent employing judo-like throws.
High-ranking rikishi often master multiple combat styles adjusting against different styles.
There are dozens of victory moves, ranging from audacious throws strategic evasions. This diversity in moves and tactics maintains fan interest, so surprises and upsets can occur during any match.
Weight classes do not exist in sumo, so it's common to see rikishi of varying dimensions. Sumo rankings decides opponents instead of physical attributes.
While women do compete in non-professional sumo worldwide, they're excluded from professional tournaments including major venues.
Life as a Sumo Wrestler
Professional rikishi live and train in communal facilities called heya, led by a stable master.
The daily routine for wrestlers focuses entirely on sumo. Early mornings dedicated to training, then consuming a large meal the traditional stew – a protein-rich preparation aimed at building mass – with rest periods.
Typical rikishi consumes between six to 10 bowls per meal – thousands of calories – with notable instances of extreme consumption exist in sumo history.
Rikishi intentionally gain weight for competitive advantage in the ring. Although large, they possess remarkable flexibility, quick movements with strong bursts.
Nearly all elements of rikishi life get controlled by their stable and governing body – making a unique lifestyle among athletic professions.
A wrestler's ranking affects earnings, living arrangements and even support staff.
Junior less established rikishi perform duties in the stable, whereas senior ones enjoy preferred treatment.
Competitive standings are established through performance during yearly events. Successful competitors advance, unsuccessful ones drop down the rankings.
Prior to events, updated rankings are released – a traditional document displaying everyone's status in professional sumo.
At the summit features the title of Grand Champion – the ultimate achievement. Yokozuna represent the spirit of the sport – beyond mere competition.
Sumo Wrestlers Demographics
There are approximately several hundred wrestlers competing professionally, primarily from Japan.
Foreign wrestlers have participated prominently for decades, with Mongolian athletes reaching top levels in recent times.
Top champions include international representatives, with competitors from various nations achieving high ranks.
In recent news, foreign prospects have journeyed to the homeland seeking professional sumo careers.
