Why the Grand Sumo Tournament Takes Place in London

This Prestigious Sumo Competition

Location: The Royal Albert Hall, the British Capital. Dates: October 15th through 19th

Exploring Japan's National Sport

Sumo embodies Japan's iconic national sport, combining tradition, discipline and ancient spiritual practices with origins over a millennium.

This physical contest involves two competitors – known as rikishi – competing inside a raised circular ring – the dohyo – spanning 4.55 meters across.

Traditional ceremonies take place both preceding and following every match, emphasizing the traditional nature in sumo.

Traditionally before a match, a hole is created at the center of the ring then filled with symbolic offerings through Shinto ceremonies.

This opening gets sealed, enshrining inside a spirit. The rikishi subsequently execute a ritual stamp and clap to drive off bad spirits.

Professional sumo operates under a strict hierarchy, with competitors involved commit completely to the sport – residing and practicing in group settings.

Why London?

The Grand Sumo Tournament is being held internationally only the second occasion, with the competition occurring in London beginning October 15th through October 19th.

London with this iconic venue also hosted the 1991 tournament – the first time a tournament took place beyond Japan in the sport's history.

Clarifying the decision for the international competition, the Japan Sumo Association chair expressed he wanted to share with London audiences sumo's attraction – an ancient traditional Japanese culture".

Sumo has seen substantial growth in popularity globally recently, and a rare international tournament potentially enhancing the popularity of Japanese culture abroad.

How Sumo Matches Work

The basic rules in sumo wrestling are straightforward. The match concludes when a rikishi is forced out of the dohyo or makes contact with anything other than their foot soles.

Bouts might end almost instantly or continue several minutes.

Sumo features two primary techniques. Pusher-thrusters generally push their opponents from the arena through strength, whereas grapplers choose to grip the other rikishi and use judo-like throws.

High-ranking rikishi frequently excel in multiple combat styles adjusting against different styles.

There are 82 winning techniques, including dramatic throws to clever side-steps. The variety of techniques and strategies maintains fan interest, meaning unexpected results can occur in any bout.

Size categories are not used within sumo, so it's common to see rikishi of varying dimensions. Sumo rankings decides opponents rather than body measurements.

Although female athletes do compete in amateur sumo globally, they cannot enter professional tournaments including major venues.

Life as a Sumo Wrestler

Sumo wrestlers reside and practice in communal facilities called heya, led by a head trainer.

Everyday life for wrestlers centers completely around the sport. Early mornings for intense practice, followed by a substantial lunch the traditional stew – a protein-rich preparation designed for weight gain – and an afternoon nap.

Typical rikishi eats approximately six to 10 bowls each sitting – approximately 10,000 calories – with notable instances of extreme consumption exist in sumo history.

Rikishi intentionally gain weight for competitive advantage in the ring. Although large, they demonstrate surprising agility, rapid reflexes with strong bursts.

Nearly all elements of rikishi life get controlled through their training house and the Sumo Association – making a unique lifestyle among athletic professions.

A wrestler's ranking affects earnings, accommodation options and even support staff.

Junior less established wrestlers handle chores in the stable, whereas senior competitors receive preferred treatment.

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

Before each tournament, a new banzuke gets published – a traditional document showing all wrestlers' positions within the sport.

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

Who Becomes a Rikishi

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

International competitors have been involved prominently over years, including Mongolian wrestlers reaching top levels currently.

Current Yokozuna feature international representatives, with competitors from various nations achieving high ranks.

Recently, young international aspirants have journeyed to the homeland seeking wrestling careers.