Why the Grand Sumo Tournament is Being Held in London
The Grand Sumo Tournament
Location: The Royal Albert Hall, London. Dates: October 15th through 19th
Understanding Sumo Wrestling
Sumo represents the traditional sport of Japan, blending tradition, discipline and Shinto religious rituals dating back more than 1,000 years.
This combat sport involves two competitors – known as rikishi – competing inside a raised circular ring – a dohyo – spanning 4.55 meters in diameter.
Traditional ceremonies take place both preceding and following each bout, emphasizing the traditional nature in sumo.
Customarily before a match, a hole is made in the center of the ring then filled with symbolic offerings through Shinto ceremonies.
The hole gets sealed, enshrining inside divine presence. The rikishi subsequently execute a ceremonial stomp and clap to drive off negative energies.
Professional sumo is governed a strict hierarchy, and the wrestlers involved dedicate their entire lives to it – residing and practicing communally.
Why London?
The Grand Sumo Tournament is being held internationally for just the second time, with the competition taking place in London beginning October 15th through October 19th.
The British capital with this iconic venue also hosted the 1991 edition – marking the initial occasion a tournament was staged outside Japan in the sport's history.
Clarifying the decision for the international competition, sumo leadership stated the intention to share to the people of London sumo's attraction – a historic Japanese tradition".
Sumo has seen substantial growth in international interest globally in recent years, with overseas events could further boost the appeal of Japanese culture abroad.
Sumo Bout Mechanics
The basic rules in sumo wrestling are straightforward. The bout is decided when a rikishi is forced out from the ring or makes contact using anything besides their foot soles.
Matches can conclude in a fraction of a second or last several minutes.
There exist two primary techniques. Aggressive pushers generally push competitors from the arena by force, whereas grapplers choose to grip the other rikishi and use throwing techniques.
Elite wrestlers often master various techniques and can adapt against different styles.
There are dozens of victory moves, ranging from dramatic throws strategic evasions. This diversity of techniques and strategies maintains fan interest, meaning unexpected results may happen in any bout.
Weight classes do not exist in sumo, so it's common to observe wrestlers of varying dimensions. The ranking system determine matchups instead of body measurements.
While women can participate in non-professional sumo globally, they're excluded from elite competitions including major venues.
Rikishi Lifestyle
Sumo wrestlers live and train together in training stables known as heya, under a stable master.
The daily routine of a rikishi focuses entirely on sumo. They rise early dedicated to training, followed by a large meal the traditional stew – a protein-rich preparation designed for weight gain – and an afternoon nap.
The average wrestler eats approximately six to 10 bowls each sitting – approximately 10,000 calories – although legendary stories of extreme consumption are documented.
Wrestlers intentionally gain weight for competitive advantage during matches. Although large, they possess remarkable flexibility, quick movements and explosive power.
Virtually every aspect of rikishi life get controlled by their stable and governing body – making a unique lifestyle in professional sports.
Competitive standing determines their payment, accommodation options and even support staff.
Junior less established wrestlers perform duties around the heya, whereas senior competitors receive preferred treatment.
Competitive standings are established by results in six annual tournaments. Successful competitors advance, unsuccessful ones descend the rankings.
Prior to events, updated rankings are released – a ceremonial list showing all wrestlers' positions within the sport.
At the summit exists the rank of Yokozuna – the pinnacle position. These champions represent the spirit of sumo – transcending winning.
Sumo Wrestlers Demographics
The sport includes 600 rikishi competing professionally, with most from Japan.
International competitors have been involved prominently over years, with Mongolian athletes achieving dominance currently.
Top champions feature international representatives, including wrestlers multiple countries achieving high ranks.
Recently, foreign prospects have journeyed to the homeland seeking wrestling careers.
