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The Grand Sumo Tournament

Venue: This Historic London Venue, the British Capital. Dates: October 15th through 19th

Exploring Sumo Wrestling

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

This combat sport involves two competitors – known as rikishi – competing within a circular arena – a dohyo – measuring 4.55m (14.9 ft) in diameter.

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

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

The hole gets sealed, enshrining inside divine presence. The rikishi subsequently execute a ritual stamp and clap to scare away negative energies.

Professional sumo operates under a rigid ranking system, with competitors who participate commit completely to the sport – residing and practicing in group settings.

Why London?

This Major Sumo Event is being held outside of Japan for just the second time, as the tournament occurring in London from Wednesday, 15 October until Sunday, 19 October.

The British capital with this iconic venue also hosted the 1991 tournament – the first time such an event took place outside Japan in sumo history.

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

Sumo has seen substantial growth in international interest globally recently, with overseas events could further boost the appeal of traditional Japan internationally.

Sumo Bout Mechanics

The fundamental regulations in sumo wrestling are straightforward. The match is decided when a rikishi is forced out of the dohyo or touches the floor using anything besides their foot soles.

Bouts can conclude almost instantly or continue over two minutes.

There exist two primary techniques. Pusher-thrusters generally push their opponents out of the ring by force, whereas grapplers prefer to grapple 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, ranging from dramatic throws strategic evasions. This diversity in moves and tactics maintains fan interest, so surprises and upsets can occur in any bout.

Weight classes do not exist within sumo, so it's common to see rikishi with significant size differences. Sumo rankings decides opponents rather than physical attributes.

Although female athletes can participate in amateur sumo globally, they cannot enter elite competitions including major venues.

Rikishi Lifestyle

Sumo wrestlers live and train together in training stables known as heya, under a head trainer.

Everyday life for wrestlers centers completely around the sport. Early mornings dedicated to training, then consuming a substantial lunch the traditional stew – a protein-rich preparation designed for weight gain – with rest periods.

Typical rikishi eats approximately six to 10 bowls per meal – approximately 10,000 calories – with notable instances of massive eating are documented.

Wrestlers intentionally gain weight to enhance leverage during matches. Although large, they demonstrate surprising agility, rapid reflexes and explosive power.

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

Competitive standing affects earnings, living arrangements and even support staff.

Younger less established rikishi handle chores around the heya, whereas senior competitors receive special privileges.

Competitive standings are established through performance during yearly events. Wrestlers with winning records move up, unsuccessful ones drop down the rankings.

Prior to events, updated rankings are released – a ceremonial list displaying everyone's status within the sport.

The highest level features the title of Grand Champion – the pinnacle position. These champions embody the spirit of the sport – transcending winning.

Who Becomes a Rikishi

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

Foreign wrestlers have been involved significantly over years, with Mongolian athletes reaching top levels in recent times.

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

Recently, foreign prospects have traveled to the homeland pursuing professional sumo careers.