🔗 Share this article The Reason This Major Sumo Event is Being Held in the UK Capital This Prestigious Sumo Competition Venue: The Royal Albert Hall, the British Capital. Schedule: 15-19 October Exploring Sumo Wrestling Sumo embodies Japan's iconic national sport, combining custom, discipline and ancient spiritual practices dating back more than 1,000 years. This physical contest involves two competitors – called rikishi – battling within a circular arena – the dohyo – measuring 4.55m (14.9 ft) across. Various rituals are performed before and after each bout, emphasizing the traditional nature of the sport. Traditionally before a match, a hole is created in the center of the ring and filled with nuts, squid, seaweed and sake through Shinto ceremonies. The hole is closed, enshrining inside divine presence. Sumo wrestlers then perform a ritual stamp with hand clapping to drive off bad spirits. Professional sumo is governed a strict hierarchy, and the wrestlers involved dedicate their entire lives to the sport – residing and practicing communally. Why London? This Major Sumo Event is taking place outside of Japan for just the second time, as the tournament occurring in London from Wednesday, 15 October until Sunday, 19 October. London with this iconic venue also hosted the 1991 edition – the first time a tournament took place beyond Japan in the sport's history. Explaining the reasoning for the international competition, sumo leadership stated the intention to share with London audiences the appeal of Sumo – a historic Japanese tradition". Sumo has experienced a significant rise in international interest among international fans in recent years, with overseas events could further boost the appeal of traditional Japan abroad. Sumo Bout Mechanics The fundamental regulations in sumo wrestling are straightforward. The bout concludes when a rikishi gets pushed from the ring or makes contact with anything other than their foot soles. Matches can conclude in a fraction of a second or continue over two minutes. There exist two main fighting styles. Aggressive pushers typically shove their opponents out of the ring through strength, while belt-fighters choose to grip their opponent and use judo-like throws. High-ranking rikishi frequently excel in various techniques adjusting against different styles. There are dozens of victory moves, including dramatic throws strategic evasions. This diversity of techniques and strategies keeps audiences engaged, meaning unexpected results may happen in any bout. Weight classes do not exist in sumo, making it normal to see rikishi of varying dimensions. Sumo rankings decides opponents rather than physical attributes. Although female athletes do compete in non-professional sumo worldwide, they're excluded from elite competitions or the main arenas. Life as a Sumo Wrestler Sumo wrestlers live and train in communal facilities known as heya, under a stable master. The daily routine of a rikishi centers completely on sumo. They rise early dedicated to training, then consuming a substantial lunch of chankonabe – a high-protein dish aimed at building mass – and an afternoon nap. Typical rikishi eats approximately six to 10 bowls each sitting – approximately 10,000 calories – with notable instances of massive eating exist in sumo history. Rikishi purposely increase mass for competitive advantage during matches. Despite their size, they demonstrate remarkable flexibility, rapid reflexes with strong bursts. Nearly all elements of rikishi life are regulated through their training house and governing body – making a unique lifestyle in professional sports. Competitive standing affects their payment, living arrangements and even support staff. Junior less established wrestlers handle chores around the heya, whereas senior ones enjoy special privileges. Competitive standings are established by results during yearly events. Successful competitors advance, unsuccessful ones descend in standing. Prior to events, updated rankings are released – a ceremonial list showing all wrestlers' positions in professional sumo. The highest level features the title of Yokozuna – the pinnacle position. These champions represent the spirit of sumo – beyond mere competition. Who Becomes a Rikishi The sport includes 600 rikishi in professional sumo, with most from Japan. International competitors have participated significantly over years, including Mongolian wrestlers reaching top levels currently. Current Yokozuna include global participants, with competitors multiple countries reaching elite status. Recently, foreign prospects have traveled to Japan pursuing professional sumo careers.