The Reason This Major Sumo Event is Being Held in the UK Capital

This Prestigious Sumo Competition

Venue: The Royal Albert Hall, London. Dates: October 15th through 19th

Understanding Japan's National Sport

Sumo represents the traditional sport of Japan, blending tradition, rigorous training and ancient spiritual practices with origins over a millennium.

This combat sport involves two competitors – known as rikishi – battling inside a raised circular ring – a dohyo – measuring 4.55m (14.9 ft) across.

Various rituals are performed before and after every match, highlighting the ceremonial aspects in sumo.

Customarily before a match, an opening is created in the center of the ring then filled with symbolic offerings through Shinto ceremonies.

The hole is closed, enshrining inside divine presence. The rikishi subsequently execute a ceremonial stomp and clap to drive off bad spirits.

Professional sumo operates under a rigid ranking system, with competitors involved commit completely to it – living and training in group settings.

The London Location

The Grand Sumo Tournament is being held outside of Japan only the second occasion, with the competition occurring in London from Wednesday, 15 October until Sunday, 19 October.

London and The Royal Albert Hall previously held the 1991 tournament – marking the initial occasion such an event took place beyond Japan in the sport's history.

Explaining the reasoning behind going overseas, the Japan Sumo Association chair stated he wanted to "convey to the people of London sumo's attraction – a historic Japanese tradition".

The sport has experienced a significant rise in popularity globally in recent years, with overseas events potentially enhancing the popularity of traditional Japan internationally.

How Sumo Matches Work

The fundamental regulations in sumo wrestling are quite simple. 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 almost instantly or last several minutes.

There exist two primary techniques. Pusher-thrusters generally push their opponents from the arena through strength, whereas grapplers choose to grip the other rikishi employing judo-like throws.

High-ranking rikishi frequently excel in multiple combat styles adjusting to their opponents.

There are 82 winning techniques, ranging from audacious throws to clever side-steps. The variety of techniques and strategies keeps audiences engaged, meaning unexpected results may happen in any bout.

Size categories are not used within sumo, so it's common to see rikishi with significant size differences. The ranking system decides opponents rather than body measurements.

Although female athletes can participate in non-professional sumo globally, they cannot enter professional tournaments or the main arenas.

Life as a Sumo Wrestler

Sumo wrestlers live and train together in training stables known as heya, led by a stable master.

The daily routine for wrestlers centers completely around the sport. Early mornings dedicated to training, then consuming a large meal the traditional stew – a high-protein dish aimed at building mass – with rest periods.

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

Rikishi intentionally gain weight for competitive advantage during matches. Although large, they demonstrate surprising agility, quick movements with strong bursts.

Nearly all elements of rikishi life are regulated through their training house and governing body – creating a unique lifestyle among athletic professions.

Competitive standing affects earnings, accommodation options including support staff.

Younger less established rikishi handle chores around the heya, while higher ranked ones enjoy special privileges.

Sumo rankings are established through performance in six annual tournaments. Successful competitors move up, while those losing descend in standing.

Before each tournament, updated rankings are released – a traditional document displaying all wrestlers' positions in professional sumo.

At the summit exists the rank of Grand Champion – the pinnacle position. These champions represent the spirit of the sport – transcending winning.

Who Becomes a Rikishi

The sport includes 600 rikishi in professional sumo, with most from Japan.

Foreign wrestlers have been involved significantly for decades, including Mongolian wrestlers reaching top levels currently.

Top champions feature international representatives, including wrestlers from various nations achieving high ranks.

In recent news, young international aspirants have journeyed to Japan seeking professional sumo careers.