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The Grand Sumo Tournament

Location: 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 Shinto religious rituals dating back over a millennium.

This combat sport features two wrestlers – called rikishi – battling inside a raised circular ring – a dohyo – spanning 4.55 meters in diameter.

Traditional ceremonies are performed before and after every match, emphasizing the ceremonial aspects of the sport.

Traditionally prior to competition, a hole is made at the center of the dohyo then filled with symbolic offerings through Shinto ceremonies.

The hole is closed, containing within a spirit. Sumo wrestlers subsequently execute a ceremonial stomp and clap to drive off bad spirits.

Elite sumo operates under a rigid ranking system, and the wrestlers who participate commit completely to it – living and training communally.

Why London?

The Grand Sumo Tournament is being held outside of Japan for just the second time, as the tournament taking place in London from Wednesday, 15 October until Sunday, 19 October.

London with this iconic venue previously held the 1991 edition – marking the initial occasion a tournament took place outside Japan in sumo history.

Explaining the reasoning behind going overseas, sumo leadership stated the intention to "convey to the people of London the appeal of Sumo – a historic Japanese tradition".

Sumo has seen substantial growth in popularity globally recently, with overseas events potentially enhancing the appeal of Japanese culture internationally.

Sumo Bout Mechanics

The basic rules of sumo are quite simple. The match is decided once a wrestler is forced out from the ring or makes contact using anything besides their foot soles.

Bouts can conclude almost instantly or continue over two minutes.

Sumo features two primary techniques. Pusher-thrusters generally push competitors from the arena by force, while belt-fighters prefer to grapple their opponent employing throwing techniques.

High-ranking rikishi frequently excel in multiple combat styles adjusting against different styles.

Sumo includes dozens of victory moves, ranging from dramatic throws strategic evasions. The variety in moves and tactics keeps audiences engaged, meaning unexpected results can occur in any bout.

Size categories are not used within sumo, making it normal to see rikishi of varying dimensions. The ranking system determine matchups rather than physical attributes.

Although female athletes do compete in amateur sumo globally, they cannot enter professional tournaments including major venues.

Life as a Sumo Wrestler

Professional rikishi reside and practice together in training stables known as heya, led by a head trainer.

The daily routine of a rikishi centers completely on sumo. They rise early dedicated to training, then consuming a substantial lunch of chankonabe – a high-protein dish designed for weight gain – with rest periods.

The average wrestler consumes between multiple servings each sitting – approximately 10,000 calories – with notable instances of massive eating are documented.

Rikishi intentionally gain weight to enhance leverage in the ring. Although large, they demonstrate remarkable flexibility, rapid reflexes and explosive power.

Nearly all elements of wrestlers' existence get controlled through their training house and governing body – making a distinctive existence in professional sports.

Competitive standing determines their payment, accommodation options and even personal assistants.

Junior less established rikishi perform duties in the stable, while higher ranked ones enjoy preferred treatment.

Sumo rankings get determined by results in six annual tournaments. Wrestlers with winning records move up, unsuccessful ones drop down the rankings.

Prior to events, a new banzuke gets published – a ceremonial list showing everyone's status within the sport.

The highest level features the title of Yokozuna – the pinnacle position. These champions embody the essence of the sport – beyond mere competition.

Who Becomes a Rikishi

The sport includes several hundred wrestlers competing professionally, primarily being Japanese.

Foreign wrestlers have participated prominently over years, with Mongolian athletes reaching top levels currently.

Current Yokozuna feature global participants, with competitors multiple countries reaching elite status.

Recently, foreign prospects have journeyed to Japan seeking professional sumo careers.