Why the Grand Sumo Tournament Takes Place in London
The Grand Sumo Tournament
Location: This Historic London Venue, the British Capital. Dates: October 15th through 19th
Exploring Japan's National Sport
Sumo represents Japan's iconic national sport, combining custom, rigorous training and ancient spiritual practices with origins over a millennium.
This combat sport involves two competitors – known as rikishi – competing inside a raised circular ring – the dohyo – measuring 4.55m (14.9 ft) across.
Traditional ceremonies take place both preceding and following each bout, highlighting the traditional nature of the sport.
Traditionally before a match, a hole is made at the center of the dohyo then filled with symbolic offerings through Shinto ceremonies.
This opening gets sealed, enshrining inside divine presence. The rikishi then perform a ceremonial stomp and clap to scare away bad spirits.
Professional sumo is governed a rigid ranking system, and the wrestlers who participate dedicate their entire lives to it – residing and practicing communally.
Why London?
The Grand Sumo Tournament is being held internationally for just the second time, as the tournament occurring in London beginning October 15th through October 19th.
London and The Royal Albert Hall previously held the 1991 edition – the first time such an event took place outside Japan in the sport's history.
Clarifying the decision behind going overseas, sumo leadership stated he wanted to "convey with London audiences the appeal of Sumo – an ancient traditional Japanese culture".
The sport has seen a significant rise in international interest among international fans in recent years, and a rare international tournament potentially enhancing the appeal of traditional Japan abroad.
Sumo Bout Mechanics
The fundamental regulations of sumo are straightforward. The match is decided once a wrestler is forced out from the ring or touches the floor using anything besides their foot soles.
Bouts might end in a fraction of a second or continue over two minutes.
Sumo features two main fighting styles. Pusher-thrusters typically shove competitors out of the ring by force, while belt-fighters choose to grip the other rikishi and use judo-like throws.
High-ranking rikishi frequently excel in various techniques and can adapt against different styles.
Sumo includes 82 winning techniques, including dramatic throws to clever side-steps. This diversity in moves and tactics keeps audiences engaged, so surprises and upsets may happen during any match.
Weight classes do not exist within sumo, making it normal to observe wrestlers of varying dimensions. The ranking system determine matchups rather than body measurements.
While women do compete in amateur sumo globally, they're excluded from professional tournaments including major venues.
Rikishi Lifestyle
Sumo wrestlers live and train together in training stables called heya, led by a head trainer.
Everyday life of a rikishi centers completely on sumo. They rise early dedicated to training, then consuming a large meal the traditional stew – a protein-rich preparation designed for weight gain – and an afternoon nap.
The average wrestler eats approximately multiple servings each sitting – thousands of calories – with notable instances of massive eating are documented.
Rikishi intentionally gain weight for competitive advantage during matches. Although large, they demonstrate remarkable flexibility, quick movements and explosive power.
Nearly all elements of rikishi life get controlled through their training house and governing body – creating a distinctive existence among athletic professions.
Competitive standing determines earnings, accommodation options including personal assistants.
Junior less established rikishi handle chores around the heya, while higher ranked competitors receive special privileges.
Competitive standings get determined by results in six annual tournaments. Successful competitors move up, unsuccessful ones drop down the rankings.
Prior to events, updated rankings are released – a traditional document showing all wrestlers' positions in professional sumo.
The highest level features the title of Grand Champion – the pinnacle position. Yokozuna represent the essence of sumo – beyond mere competition.
Who Becomes a Rikishi
The sport includes several hundred wrestlers competing professionally, primarily being Japanese.
Foreign wrestlers have been involved significantly over years, with Mongolian athletes reaching top levels in recent times.
Top champions feature international representatives, including wrestlers from various nations achieving high ranks.
Recently, young international aspirants have traveled to the homeland seeking professional sumo careers.
