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This Prestigious Sumo Competition

Venue: This Historic London Venue, London. Schedule: October 15th through 19th

Exploring Sumo Wrestling

Sumo represents the traditional sport of Japan, combining tradition, rigorous training and ancient spiritual practices with origins more than 1,000 years.

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

Traditional ceremonies take place before and after every match, highlighting the traditional nature of the sport.

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

This opening gets sealed, containing within divine presence. The rikishi then perform a ceremonial stomp with hand clapping to drive off negative energies.

Professional sumo operates under a strict hierarchy, with competitors who participate commit completely to the sport – living and training in group settings.

Why London?

This Major Sumo Event is being held internationally only the second occasion, with the competition taking place in London beginning October 15th until Sunday, 19 October.

The British capital and The Royal Albert Hall also hosted the 1991 tournament – marking the initial occasion a tournament was staged beyond Japan in sumo history.

Explaining the reasoning behind going overseas, sumo leadership expressed he wanted to "convey to the people of London the appeal of Sumo – a historic Japanese tradition".

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

Sumo Bout Mechanics

The basic rules of sumo are straightforward. The match concludes when a rikishi is forced out from the ring or touches the floor using anything besides the sole of his feet.

Matches can conclude almost instantly or continue over two minutes.

Sumo features two primary techniques. Pusher-thrusters typically shove competitors from the arena by force, while belt-fighters prefer to grapple their opponent employing judo-like throws.

High-ranking rikishi frequently excel in multiple combat styles adjusting to their opponents.

There are 82 winning techniques, including audacious throws strategic evasions. This diversity of techniques and strategies maintains fan interest, meaning unexpected results may happen during any match.

Weight classes are not used within sumo, so it's common to see rikishi of varying dimensions. The ranking system determine matchups instead of body measurements.

Although female athletes can participate in non-professional sumo worldwide, they're excluded from professional tournaments or the main arenas.

Life as a Sumo Wrestler

Sumo wrestlers reside and practice together in training stables called heya, led by a stable master.

The daily routine for wrestlers centers completely around the sport. Early mornings for intense practice, followed by a large meal of chankonabe – 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 – although legendary stories of massive eating are documented.

Rikishi purposely increase mass for competitive advantage during matches. Despite their size, they demonstrate surprising agility, rapid reflexes and explosive power.

Nearly all elements of rikishi life get controlled through their training house and governing body – making a distinctive existence among athletic professions.

Competitive standing affects their payment, living arrangements and even support staff.

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

Sumo rankings are established by results during yearly events. Successful competitors advance, while those losing drop down the rankings.

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

At the summit features the title of Grand Champion – the pinnacle position. These champions represent the essence of the sport – beyond mere competition.

Who Becomes a Rikishi

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

Foreign wrestlers have been involved significantly for decades, including Mongolian wrestlers reaching top levels currently.

Current Yokozuna feature international representatives, including wrestlers multiple countries reaching elite status.

Recently, young international aspirants have traveled to Japan seeking wrestling careers.