Why This Major Sumo Event is Being Held in London
This Prestigious Sumo Competition
Venue: The Royal Albert Hall, the British Capital. Schedule: October 15th through 19th
Understanding Sumo Wrestling
Sumo represents the traditional sport of Japan, blending tradition, rigorous training and Shinto religious rituals dating back more than 1,000 years.
This physical contest involves two competitors – called rikishi – competing inside a raised circular ring – the dohyo – measuring 4.55m (14.9 ft) in diameter.
Various rituals are performed both preceding and following every match, emphasizing the ceremonial aspects in sumo.
Traditionally prior to competition, a hole is created at the center of the ring then filled with nuts, squid, seaweed and sake through Shinto ceremonies.
The hole gets sealed, enshrining inside divine presence. Sumo wrestlers subsequently execute a ritual stamp and clap to drive off bad spirits.
Elite sumo operates under a strict hierarchy, with competitors who participate dedicate their entire lives to it – residing and practicing communally.
The London Location
This Major Sumo Event is being held internationally only the second occasion, with the competition taking place in London beginning October 15th until Sunday, 19 October.
London with this iconic venue also hosted the 1991 edition – marking the initial occasion a tournament took place beyond Japan in the sport's history.
Clarifying the decision behind going overseas, the Japan Sumo Association chair stated he wanted to "convey with London audiences sumo's attraction – a historic Japanese tradition".
Sumo has experienced substantial growth in popularity globally in recent years, with overseas events potentially enhancing the popularity of traditional Japan abroad.
How Sumo Matches Work
The fundamental regulations in sumo wrestling are straightforward. The bout concludes when a rikishi gets pushed of the dohyo or touches the floor using anything besides their foot soles.
Bouts might end almost instantly or continue several minutes.
Sumo features two primary techniques. Pusher-thrusters generally push competitors from the arena through strength, while belt-fighters prefer to grapple their opponent employing throwing techniques.
Elite wrestlers frequently excel in various techniques adjusting to their opponents.
There are dozens of victory moves, including dramatic throws to clever side-steps. This diversity of techniques and strategies keeps audiences engaged, so surprises and upsets can occur during any match.
Weight classes do not exist within sumo, making it normal to see rikishi with significant size differences. The ranking system determine matchups rather than physical attributes.
While women can participate in non-professional sumo worldwide, they cannot enter elite competitions including major venues.
Rikishi Lifestyle
Sumo wrestlers reside and practice together in training stables known as heya, led by a stable master.
The daily routine for wrestlers centers completely on sumo. They rise early dedicated to training, followed by a substantial lunch the traditional stew – a protein-rich preparation designed for weight gain – and an afternoon nap.
Typical rikishi eats approximately multiple servings each sitting – approximately 10,000 calories – although legendary stories of extreme consumption exist in sumo history.
Rikishi intentionally gain weight to enhance leverage during matches. Although large, they possess surprising agility, rapid reflexes and explosive power.
Virtually every aspect of wrestlers' existence are regulated 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 or lower ranked wrestlers handle chores in the stable, whereas senior competitors receive special privileges.
Sumo rankings are established by results during yearly events. Wrestlers with winning records advance, while those losing descend in standing.
Before each tournament, a new banzuke are released – a ceremonial list displaying all wrestlers' positions within the sport.
The highest level features the title of Grand Champion – the pinnacle position. These champions embody the essence of sumo – beyond mere competition.
Sumo Wrestlers Demographics
The sport includes 600 rikishi in professional sumo, primarily from Japan.
International competitors have been involved prominently over years, including Mongolian wrestlers achieving dominance in recent times.
Current Yokozuna include global participants, including wrestlers multiple countries achieving high ranks.
Recently, young international aspirants have journeyed to Japan seeking wrestling careers.
