Why the Grand Sumo Tournament Takes Place in London

The Grand Sumo Tournament

Venue: The Royal Albert Hall, the British Capital. Dates: 15-19 October

Understanding Sumo Wrestling

Sumo represents the traditional sport of Japan, blending tradition, discipline and ancient spiritual practices dating back over a millennium.

This physical contest involves two competitors – known as rikishi – battling within a circular arena – a dohyo – measuring 4.55m (14.9 ft) across.

Various rituals take place before and after each bout, emphasizing the traditional nature in sumo.

Customarily before a match, a hole is made in the center of the dohyo and filled with nuts, squid, seaweed and sake through Shinto ceremonies.

This opening is closed, enshrining inside divine presence. The rikishi then perform a ceremonial stomp with hand clapping to scare away negative energies.

Professional sumo is governed a strict hierarchy, with competitors involved commit completely to the sport – residing and practicing communally.

Why London?

The Grand Sumo Tournament is being held internationally only the second occasion, with the competition occurring in London beginning October 15th through October 19th.

The British capital with this iconic venue also hosted the 1991 edition – the first time such an event took place outside Japan in the sport's history.

Explaining the reasoning behind going overseas, the Japan Sumo Association chair stated he wanted to share with London audiences sumo's attraction – an ancient traditional Japanese culture".

The sport has seen a significant rise in international interest among international fans in recent years, with overseas events potentially enhancing the appeal of Japanese culture abroad.

How Sumo Matches Work

The basic rules in sumo wrestling are straightforward. The bout concludes when a rikishi is forced out of the dohyo or makes contact with anything other than their foot soles.

Bouts might end almost instantly or continue several minutes.

There exist two primary techniques. Pusher-thrusters generally push their opponents out of the ring through strength, while belt-fighters prefer to grapple the other rikishi and use throwing techniques.

Elite wrestlers often master various techniques adjusting to their opponents.

There are dozens of victory moves, ranging from audacious throws strategic evasions. The variety in moves and tactics keeps audiences engaged, so surprises and upsets can occur in any bout.

Weight classes do not exist within sumo, making it normal to observe wrestlers of varying dimensions. The ranking system decides opponents rather than body measurements.

While women do compete in non-professional sumo worldwide, they're excluded from elite competitions or the main arenas.

Life as a Sumo Wrestler

Sumo wrestlers live and train in communal facilities known as heya, led by a stable master.

The daily routine of a rikishi centers completely on sumo. Early mornings for intense practice, followed by a large meal the traditional stew – a protein-rich preparation designed for weight gain – and an afternoon nap.

The average wrestler consumes between six to 10 bowls per meal – approximately 10,000 calories – although legendary stories of massive eating are documented.

Wrestlers purposely increase mass for competitive advantage in the ring. Although large, they demonstrate surprising agility, rapid reflexes with strong bursts.

Nearly all elements of rikishi life are regulated by their stable and the Sumo Association – creating a unique lifestyle among athletic professions.

A wrestler's ranking determines earnings, accommodation options and even support staff.

Junior or lower ranked wrestlers perform duties in the stable, while higher ranked competitors receive special privileges.

Competitive standings are established by results in six annual tournaments. Wrestlers with winning records move up, unsuccessful ones descend the rankings.

Prior to events, updated rankings are released – a traditional document displaying all wrestlers' positions within the sport.

At the summit exists the rank of Grand Champion – the pinnacle position. Yokozuna embody the essence of sumo – transcending winning.

Sumo Wrestlers Demographics

The sport includes several hundred wrestlers in professional sumo, primarily from Japan.

International competitors have been involved significantly over years, with Mongolian athletes reaching top levels in recent times.

Top champions feature global participants, including wrestlers from various nations achieving high ranks.

Recently, young international aspirants have journeyed to the homeland pursuing wrestling careers.