The Reason the Grand Sumo Tournament Takes Place in London

This Prestigious Sumo Competition

Location: This Historic London Venue, the British Capital. Schedule: 15-19 October

Exploring Sumo Wrestling

Sumo embodies Japan's iconic national sport, combining tradition, rigorous training and Shinto religious rituals dating back over a millennium.

This physical contest features two wrestlers – called rikishi – battling within a circular arena – the dohyo – measuring 4.55m (14.9 ft) in diameter.

Various rituals are performed both preceding and following each bout, highlighting the traditional nature in sumo.

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

The hole is closed, enshrining inside a spirit. Sumo wrestlers subsequently execute a ritual stamp with hand clapping to drive off negative energies.

Elite sumo is governed a rigid ranking system, and the wrestlers who participate dedicate their entire lives to it – residing and practicing in group settings.

The London Location

This Major Sumo Event is being held outside of Japan for just the second time, as the tournament occurring in London from Wednesday, 15 October through October 19th.

The British capital and The Royal Albert Hall also hosted the 1991 edition – the first time such an event was staged outside Japan in sumo history.

Explaining the reasoning for the international competition, the Japan Sumo Association chair expressed he wanted to share to the people of London the appeal of Sumo – a historic Japanese tradition".

Sumo has experienced a significant rise in international interest among international fans recently, with overseas events potentially enhancing the appeal of traditional Japan internationally.

Sumo Bout Mechanics

The basic rules in sumo wrestling are quite simple. The match concludes once a wrestler gets pushed of the dohyo or makes contact using anything besides the sole of his feet.

Matches can conclude almost instantly or last several minutes.

Sumo features two primary techniques. Pusher-thrusters typically shove their opponents out of the ring through strength, while belt-fighters prefer to grapple their opponent employing throwing techniques.

Elite wrestlers frequently excel in multiple combat styles and can adapt against different styles.

There are 82 winning techniques, ranging from audacious throws to clever side-steps. The variety of techniques and strategies maintains fan interest, meaning unexpected results can occur during any match.

Size categories do not exist in sumo, so it's common to observe wrestlers with significant size differences. Sumo rankings determine matchups rather than physical attributes.

Although female athletes do compete in amateur sumo globally, they're excluded from professional tournaments including major venues.

Life as a Sumo Wrestler

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

The daily routine for wrestlers centers completely on sumo. They rise early for intense practice, followed by a substantial lunch the traditional stew – a high-protein dish designed for weight gain – and an afternoon nap.

Typical rikishi eats approximately six to 10 bowls each sitting – thousands of calories – although legendary stories of extreme consumption exist in sumo history.

Rikishi intentionally gain weight for competitive advantage in the ring. Although large, they possess surprising agility, rapid reflexes and explosive power.

Nearly all elements of wrestlers' existence are regulated through their training house and the Sumo Association – making a unique lifestyle among athletic professions.

A wrestler's ranking affects earnings, accommodation options including personal assistants.

Junior less established wrestlers perform duties in the stable, whereas senior ones enjoy preferred treatment.

Sumo rankings get determined through performance in six annual tournaments. Wrestlers with winning records advance, while those losing drop down the rankings.

Prior to events, updated rankings are released – a ceremonial list displaying everyone's status within the sport.

The highest level features the title of Yokozuna – the pinnacle position. These champions represent the essence of sumo – transcending winning.

Who Becomes a Rikishi

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

International competitors have been involved prominently over years, with Mongolian athletes achieving dominance currently.

Top champions feature global participants, with competitors multiple countries achieving high ranks.

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