Why This Major Sumo Event Takes Place in the UK Capital

The Grand Sumo Tournament

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

Understanding Sumo Wrestling

Sumo embodies Japan's iconic national sport, combining custom, discipline and Shinto religious rituals dating back more than 1,000 years.

This physical contest involves two competitors – known as rikishi – battling within a circular arena – the dohyo – measuring 4.55m (14.9 ft) across.

Various rituals take place before and after each bout, highlighting the traditional nature of the sport.

Traditionally before a match, an opening is created in the center of the ring and filled with nuts, squid, seaweed and sake through Shinto ceremonies.

This opening is closed, containing within a spirit. Sumo wrestlers then perform a ceremonial stomp with hand clapping to scare away negative energies.

Professional sumo operates under a strict hierarchy, with competitors who participate dedicate their entire lives to it – living and training communally.

Why London?

This Major Sumo Event is taking place internationally only the second occasion, as the tournament occurring in London beginning October 15th through October 19th.

The British capital 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, sumo leadership stated he wanted to "convey with London audiences sumo's attraction – a historic Japanese tradition".

The sport has seen a significant rise in international interest among international fans in recent years, and a rare international tournament potentially enhancing the popularity of traditional Japan internationally.

Sumo Bout Mechanics

The fundamental regulations of sumo are straightforward. The bout 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 last over two minutes.

There exist two primary techniques. Aggressive pushers typically shove competitors out of the ring through strength, while belt-fighters choose to grip their opponent and use judo-like throws.

High-ranking rikishi often master various techniques and can adapt to their opponents.

There are dozens of victory moves, including audacious throws to clever side-steps. The variety of techniques and strategies keeps audiences engaged, meaning unexpected results may happen in any bout.

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

While women can participate in amateur sumo worldwide, they're excluded from elite competitions 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 for intense practice, then consuming a large meal of chankonabe – a high-protein dish aimed at building mass – and an afternoon nap.

Typical rikishi consumes between six to 10 bowls each sitting – approximately 10,000 calories – although legendary stories of extreme consumption are documented.

Rikishi purposely increase mass for competitive advantage in the ring. Although large, they demonstrate remarkable flexibility, quick movements and explosive power.

Virtually every aspect of rikishi life are regulated through their training house and the Sumo Association – making a unique lifestyle in professional sports.

A wrestler's ranking determines their payment, accommodation options and even personal assistants.

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

Sumo rankings get determined by results during yearly events. Successful competitors advance, while those losing descend in standing.

Prior to events, a new banzuke are released – a traditional document showing all wrestlers' positions within the sport.

At the summit exists the rank of Yokozuna – the ultimate achievement. These champions embody the essence of the sport – beyond mere competition.

Who Becomes a Rikishi

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

International competitors have participated prominently for decades, with Mongolian athletes reaching top levels currently.

Top champions include international representatives, with competitors from various nations achieving high ranks.

In recent news, foreign prospects have traveled to Japan seeking wrestling careers.