The Reason This Major Sumo Event Takes Place in London
The Grand Sumo Tournament
Venue: This Historic London Venue, the British Capital. Dates: October 15th through 19th
Exploring Sumo Wrestling
Sumo embodies the traditional sport of Japan, blending tradition, discipline and ancient spiritual practices with origins more than 1,000 years.
This physical contest features two wrestlers – known as rikishi – battling within a circular arena – a dohyo – measuring 4.55m (14.9 ft) across.
Traditional ceremonies take place before and after each bout, highlighting the traditional nature in sumo.
Traditionally prior to competition, an opening is made at the center of the ring and filled with symbolic offerings through Shinto ceremonies.
This opening is closed, containing within a spirit. The rikishi subsequently execute a ceremonial stomp and clap to scare away negative energies.
Elite sumo operates under a strict hierarchy, with competitors who participate dedicate their entire lives to it – residing and practicing communally.
The London Location
The Grand Sumo Tournament is being held outside of Japan only the second occasion, as the tournament occurring in London from Wednesday, 15 October until Sunday, 19 October.
The British capital and The Royal Albert Hall previously held the 1991 tournament – marking the initial occasion a tournament took place outside Japan in sumo history.
Explaining the reasoning for the international competition, sumo leadership stated he wanted to "convey to the people of London the appeal of Sumo – an ancient traditional Japanese culture".
Sumo has experienced substantial growth in international interest globally in recent years, with overseas events could further boost the appeal of traditional Japan abroad.
Sumo Bout Mechanics
The basic rules of sumo are quite simple. The bout concludes when a rikishi is forced out from the ring or makes contact with anything other than the sole of his feet.
Bouts can conclude in a fraction of a second or last over two minutes.
Sumo features two primary techniques. Pusher-thrusters generally push competitors from the arena through strength, while belt-fighters choose to grip their opponent employing throwing techniques.
Elite wrestlers frequently excel in multiple combat styles adjusting against different styles.
Sumo includes 82 winning techniques, including audacious throws to clever side-steps. The variety of techniques and strategies maintains fan interest, so surprises and upsets may happen during any match.
Size categories do not exist within sumo, so it's common to see rikishi of varying dimensions. Sumo rankings determine matchups instead of physical attributes.
Although female athletes can participate in amateur sumo worldwide, they cannot enter professional tournaments including major venues.
Rikishi Lifestyle
Sumo wrestlers live and train in communal facilities known as heya, led by a head trainer.
Everyday life for wrestlers focuses entirely around the sport. Early mornings for intense practice, then consuming a substantial lunch the traditional stew – a high-protein dish designed for weight gain – with rest periods.
Typical rikishi consumes between six to 10 bowls each sitting – approximately 10,000 calories – with notable instances of extreme consumption exist in sumo history.
Rikishi intentionally gain weight to enhance leverage during matches. Despite their size, they demonstrate surprising agility, quick movements and explosive power.
Nearly all elements of rikishi life are regulated through their training house and governing body – creating a distinctive existence among athletic professions.
A wrestler's ranking determines their payment, accommodation options and even support staff.
Junior less established rikishi perform duties around the heya, while higher ranked competitors receive special privileges.
Sumo rankings are established through performance in six annual tournaments. Wrestlers with winning records move up, while those losing descend the rankings.
Before each tournament, updated rankings are released – a traditional document showing all wrestlers' positions in professional sumo.
The highest level exists the rank of Yokozuna – the pinnacle position. Yokozuna represent the spirit of the sport – beyond mere competition.
Who Becomes a Rikishi
There are approximately 600 rikishi competing professionally, with most being Japanese.
Foreign wrestlers have been involved significantly over years, including Mongolian wrestlers reaching top levels currently.
Top champions include global participants, including wrestlers from various nations reaching elite status.
Recently, foreign prospects have journeyed to Japan seeking wrestling careers.
