The Reason the Grand Sumo Tournament is Being Held in London
The Grand Sumo Tournament
Venue: The Royal Albert Hall, the British Capital. Dates: October 15th through 19th
Exploring Sumo Wrestling
Sumo embodies the traditional sport of Japan, blending tradition, rigorous training and Shinto religious rituals dating back more than 1,000 years.
This combat sport features two wrestlers – called rikishi – competing within a circular arena – the dohyo – measuring 4.55m (14.9 ft) in diameter.
Various rituals take place both preceding and following each bout, emphasizing the ceremonial aspects of the sport.
Customarily prior to competition, an opening is created in the center of the dohyo then filled with nuts, squid, seaweed and sake by Shinto priests.
This opening is closed, containing within divine presence. Sumo wrestlers subsequently execute a ritual stamp and clap to scare away bad spirits.
Professional sumo operates under a rigid ranking system, and the wrestlers involved commit completely to the sport – living and training communally.
Why London?
This Major Sumo Event is being held internationally for just the second time, with the competition occurring in London from Wednesday, 15 October through October 19th.
London with this iconic venue previously held the 1991 edition – the first time a tournament was staged beyond Japan in sumo history.
Clarifying the decision for the international competition, sumo leadership expressed he wanted to share with London audiences the appeal of Sumo – a historic Japanese tradition".
The sport has experienced substantial growth in international interest among international fans recently, and a rare international tournament potentially enhancing the appeal of Japanese culture internationally.
Sumo Bout Mechanics
The basic rules in sumo wrestling are quite simple. The bout is decided when a rikishi is forced out from the ring or touches the floor with anything other than the sole of his feet.
Matches can conclude almost instantly or last several minutes.
There exist two main fighting styles. Aggressive pushers generally push their opponents from the arena through strength, whereas grapplers choose to grip their opponent and use throwing techniques.
Elite wrestlers often master various techniques adjusting to their opponents.
There are dozens of victory moves, ranging from dramatic throws strategic evasions. The variety of techniques and strategies maintains fan interest, so surprises and upsets may happen in any bout.
Size categories do not exist within 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 amateur sumo globally, they cannot enter elite competitions or the main arenas.
Rikishi Lifestyle
Sumo wrestlers reside and practice in communal facilities known as heya, led by a head trainer.
Everyday life of a rikishi focuses entirely on sumo. Early mornings for intense practice, then consuming a large meal the traditional stew – a protein-rich preparation aimed at building mass – with rest periods.
The average wrestler eats approximately six to 10 bowls each sitting – approximately 10,000 calories – with notable instances of massive eating are documented.
Rikishi intentionally gain weight for competitive advantage during matches. Despite their size, they demonstrate surprising agility, rapid reflexes and explosive power.
Nearly all elements of wrestlers' existence are regulated by their stable and the Sumo Association – creating a unique lifestyle among athletic professions.
A wrestler's ranking affects earnings, accommodation options and even support staff.
Younger or lower ranked wrestlers perform duties in the stable, while higher ranked ones enjoy special privileges.
Sumo rankings get determined by results in six annual tournaments. Successful competitors advance, while those losing drop down the rankings.
Before each tournament, updated rankings gets published – a ceremonial list showing everyone's status within the sport.
The highest level features the title of Yokozuna – the ultimate achievement. These champions embody the spirit of sumo – beyond mere competition.
Sumo Wrestlers Demographics
The sport includes 600 rikishi competing professionally, with most from Japan.
Foreign wrestlers have participated prominently for decades, including Mongolian wrestlers achieving dominance in recent times.
Current Yokozuna feature global participants, including wrestlers multiple countries achieving high ranks.
Recently, young international aspirants have journeyed to the homeland seeking wrestling careers.