The Reason the Grand Sumo Tournament is Being Held in London

This Prestigious Sumo Competition

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

Understanding Sumo Wrestling

Sumo represents the traditional sport of Japan, blending custom, discipline and ancient spiritual practices with origins over a millennium.

This combat sport involves two competitors – known as rikishi – competing within a circular arena – the dohyo – spanning 4.55 meters across.

Traditional ceremonies take place both preceding and following every match, highlighting the ceremonial aspects in sumo.

Traditionally prior to competition, a hole is made in the center of the dohyo then filled with symbolic offerings by Shinto priests.

This opening is closed, containing within divine presence. The rikishi then perform a ceremonial stomp and clap to scare away bad spirits.

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

The London Location

This Major Sumo Event is taking place internationally for just the second time, with the competition taking place in London beginning October 15th until Sunday, 19 October.

The British capital with this iconic venue also hosted the 1991 edition – the first time a tournament took place outside Japan in sumo history.

Clarifying the decision for the international competition, sumo leadership stated he wanted to share to the people of London the appeal of Sumo – an ancient traditional Japanese culture".

The sport has experienced a significant rise in popularity globally recently, with overseas events could further boost the popularity of Japanese culture abroad.

How Sumo Matches Work

The basic rules of sumo are quite simple. The match is decided when a rikishi gets pushed of the dohyo or touches the floor with anything other than the sole of his feet.

Matches can conclude almost instantly or last several minutes.

There exist two main fighting styles. Aggressive pushers typically shove competitors from the arena by force, while belt-fighters prefer to grapple their opponent and use judo-like throws.

Elite wrestlers frequently excel in multiple combat styles adjusting to their opponents.

Sumo includes dozens of victory moves, including audacious throws to clever side-steps. This diversity in moves and tactics keeps audiences engaged, so surprises and upsets can occur during any match.

Weight classes are not used in sumo, making it normal to see rikishi of varying dimensions. Sumo rankings determine matchups instead of physical attributes.

Although female athletes do compete in amateur sumo worldwide, they're excluded from elite competitions including major venues.

Rikishi Lifestyle

Professional rikishi live and train in communal facilities called heya, under a head trainer.

The daily routine of a rikishi focuses entirely around the sport. They rise early for intense practice, then consuming a large meal the traditional stew – a protein-rich preparation aimed at building mass – with rest periods.

The average wrestler consumes between six to 10 bowls per meal – approximately 10,000 calories – with notable instances of extreme consumption exist in sumo history.

Wrestlers intentionally gain weight to enhance leverage in the ring. Although large, they possess surprising agility, rapid reflexes and explosive power.

Nearly all elements of rikishi life are regulated through their training house and governing body – creating a distinctive existence in professional sports.

Competitive standing determines earnings, accommodation options and even personal assistants.

Junior less established rikishi handle chores in the stable, whereas senior ones enjoy preferred treatment.

Sumo rankings get determined through performance in six annual tournaments. Wrestlers with winning records move up, unsuccessful ones descend in standing.

Prior to events, a new banzuke gets published – a ceremonial list showing all wrestlers' positions in professional sumo.

The highest level features the title of Grand Champion – the pinnacle position. Yokozuna represent the spirit of sumo – beyond mere competition.

Sumo Wrestlers Demographics

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

International competitors have participated prominently over years, including Mongolian wrestlers reaching top levels in recent times.

Current Yokozuna include international representatives, with competitors multiple countries achieving high ranks.

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