The Reason This Major Sumo Event is Being Held in London
This Prestigious Sumo Competition
Venue: The Royal Albert Hall, London. Schedule: October 15th through 19th
Exploring Sumo Wrestling
Sumo represents the traditional sport of Japan, blending tradition, discipline and ancient spiritual practices dating back over a millennium.
This physical contest features two wrestlers – called rikishi – competing within a circular arena – the dohyo – measuring 4.55m (14.9 ft) in diameter.
Traditional ceremonies are performed both preceding and following each bout, emphasizing the ceremonial aspects in sumo.
Traditionally prior to competition, an opening is made at the center of the ring then filled with nuts, squid, seaweed and sake through Shinto ceremonies.
The hole is closed, enshrining inside a spirit. Sumo wrestlers subsequently execute a ceremonial stomp with hand clapping to drive off negative energies.
Professional sumo is governed a strict hierarchy, and the wrestlers who participate dedicate their entire lives to it – residing and practicing in group settings.
The London Location
This Major Sumo Event is taking place outside of Japan for just the second time, with the competition taking place in London beginning October 15th until Sunday, 19 October.
London and The Royal Albert Hall previously held the 1991 edition – the first time a tournament took place beyond Japan in sumo history.
Clarifying the decision for the international competition, the Japan Sumo Association chair stated the intention to "convey with London audiences sumo's attraction – a historic Japanese tradition".
Sumo has experienced a significant rise in popularity globally in recent years, with overseas events could further boost the appeal of traditional Japan internationally.
How Sumo Matches Work
The basic rules in sumo wrestling are quite simple. The bout concludes once a wrestler is forced out from the ring or makes contact using anything besides the sole of his feet.
Matches might end in a fraction of a second or last over two minutes.
There exist two main fighting styles. Pusher-thrusters generally push their opponents from the arena through strength, whereas grapplers choose to grip the other rikishi and use judo-like throws.
High-ranking rikishi frequently excel in various techniques adjusting to their opponents.
There are dozens of victory moves, including dramatic throws strategic evasions. The variety of techniques and strategies maintains fan interest, meaning unexpected results may happen during any match.
Weight classes are not used in sumo, so it's common to observe wrestlers with significant size differences. Sumo rankings decides opponents rather than body measurements.
Although female athletes can participate in non-professional sumo worldwide, they're excluded from elite competitions including major venues.
Rikishi Lifestyle
Professional rikishi reside and practice in communal facilities called heya, led by a stable master.
The daily routine of a rikishi focuses entirely around the sport. They rise early for intense practice, followed by a large meal of chankonabe – a protein-rich preparation aimed at building mass – and an afternoon nap.
The average wrestler eats approximately six to 10 bowls each sitting – thousands of calories – with notable instances of massive eating exist in sumo history.
Wrestlers intentionally gain weight for competitive advantage during matches. Although large, they demonstrate remarkable flexibility, quick movements and explosive power.
Virtually every aspect of wrestlers' existence get controlled by their stable and governing body – making a unique lifestyle in professional sports.
Competitive standing determines earnings, living arrangements and even personal assistants.
Junior or lower ranked wrestlers handle chores in the stable, while higher ranked competitors receive special privileges.
Sumo rankings are established by results during yearly events. Successful competitors advance, while those losing drop down in standing.
Prior to events, a new banzuke are released – a ceremonial list showing all wrestlers' positions within the sport.
The highest level features the title of Grand Champion – the pinnacle position. These champions embody the essence of the sport – beyond mere competition.
Sumo Wrestlers Demographics
There are approximately several hundred wrestlers in professional sumo, with most being Japanese.
Foreign wrestlers have participated prominently for decades, with Mongolian athletes achieving dominance currently.
Top champions include international representatives, with competitors multiple countries achieving high ranks.
In recent news, young international aspirants have journeyed to the homeland seeking wrestling careers.
