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This Prestigious Sumo Competition

Location: This Historic London Venue, London. Dates: 15-19 October

Understanding Japan's National Sport

Sumo embodies the traditional sport of Japan, combining custom, discipline and ancient spiritual practices with origins more than 1,000 years.

This physical contest involves two competitors – called rikishi – competing within a circular arena – a dohyo – spanning 4.55 meters in diameter.

Various rituals take place before and after each bout, emphasizing the ceremonial aspects of the sport.

Traditionally before a match, an opening is made at the center of the ring then filled with symbolic offerings by Shinto priests.

This opening is closed, containing within divine presence. Sumo wrestlers subsequently execute a ceremonial stomp and clap to drive off negative energies.

Elite sumo operates under a strict hierarchy, and the wrestlers involved commit completely to it – residing and practicing communally.

Why London?

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

London with this iconic venue also hosted the 1991 edition – the first time such an event was staged outside Japan in sumo history.

Explaining the reasoning for the international competition, sumo leadership expressed the intention to "convey to the people of London sumo's attraction – an ancient traditional Japanese culture".

Sumo has seen a significant rise in international interest globally recently, and a rare international tournament could further boost the appeal of traditional Japan abroad.

Sumo Bout Mechanics

The fundamental regulations in sumo wrestling are straightforward. The bout is decided once a wrestler is forced out of the dohyo or makes contact using anything besides the sole of his feet.

Bouts can conclude in a fraction of a second or last over two minutes.

Sumo features two primary techniques. Pusher-thrusters typically shove their opponents out of the ring through strength, whereas grapplers choose to grip their opponent and use judo-like throws.

Elite wrestlers frequently excel in various techniques and can adapt against different styles.

Sumo includes dozens of victory moves, including dramatic throws strategic evasions. The variety in moves and tactics maintains fan interest, meaning unexpected results can occur in any bout.

Weight classes do not exist in sumo, making it normal to observe wrestlers with significant size differences. Sumo rankings decides opponents rather than body measurements.

While women do compete in non-professional sumo globally, they cannot enter professional tournaments including major venues.

Rikishi Lifestyle

Professional rikishi reside and practice together in training stables called heya, under a head trainer.

Everyday life of a rikishi focuses entirely around the sport. Early mornings dedicated to training, followed by a large meal the traditional stew – a protein-rich preparation designed for weight gain – with rest periods.

Typical rikishi consumes between multiple servings per meal – thousands of calories – with notable instances of extreme consumption exist in sumo history.

Rikishi intentionally gain weight for competitive advantage during matches. Despite their size, they possess surprising agility, quick movements and explosive power.

Nearly all elements of wrestlers' existence get controlled through their training house and governing body – making a unique lifestyle among athletic professions.

A wrestler's ranking determines their payment, accommodation options and even support staff.

Younger or lower ranked rikishi perform duties around the heya, whereas senior ones enjoy special privileges.

Sumo rankings get determined by results in six annual tournaments. Successful competitors advance, unsuccessful ones drop down in standing.

Before each tournament, a new banzuke gets published – a traditional document showing everyone's status within the sport.

The highest level features the title of Yokozuna – the ultimate achievement. These champions represent the spirit of the sport – transcending winning.

Sumo Wrestlers Demographics

There are approximately 600 rikishi in professional sumo, with most from Japan.

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

Top champions feature international representatives, including wrestlers from various nations reaching elite status.

Recently, foreign prospects have journeyed to Japan seeking professional sumo careers.