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This Prestigious Sumo Competition

Venue: The Royal Albert Hall, the British Capital. Schedule: October 15th through 19th

Understanding Sumo Wrestling

Sumo embodies the traditional sport of Japan, blending tradition, rigorous training and Shinto religious rituals with origins more than 1,000 years.

This physical contest features two wrestlers – called rikishi – battling within a circular arena – the dohyo – measuring 4.55m (14.9 ft) across.

Traditional ceremonies are performed both preceding and following each bout, highlighting the ceremonial aspects of the sport.

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

This opening gets sealed, containing within a spirit. The rikishi subsequently execute a ritual stamp with hand clapping to scare away negative energies.

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

The London Location

This Major Sumo Event is taking place outside of Japan for just the second time, with the competition taking place in London from Wednesday, 15 October until Sunday, 19 October.

London and The Royal Albert Hall previously held the 1991 edition – the first time such an event took place outside Japan in the sport's history.

Explaining the reasoning for the international competition, the Japan Sumo Association chair stated the intention to "convey with London audiences the appeal of Sumo – a historic Japanese tradition".

The sport has experienced substantial growth in international interest globally recently, and a rare international tournament could further boost the popularity of traditional Japan abroad.

How Sumo Matches Work

The basic rules in sumo wrestling are quite simple. The match is decided once a wrestler is forced out of the dohyo or makes contact with anything other than the sole of his feet.

Matches might end almost instantly or continue over two minutes.

There exist two main fighting styles. Aggressive pushers generally push their opponents out of the ring by force, while belt-fighters choose to grip their opponent employing judo-like throws.

Elite wrestlers frequently excel in multiple combat styles and can adapt to their opponents.

There are 82 winning techniques, ranging from dramatic throws strategic evasions. The variety of techniques and strategies maintains fan interest, so surprises and upsets can occur during any match.

Weight classes do not exist in sumo, so it's common to observe wrestlers of varying dimensions. The ranking system decides opponents instead of body measurements.

Although female athletes can participate in amateur sumo globally, they cannot enter professional tournaments or the main arenas.

Life as a Sumo Wrestler

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

The daily routine of a rikishi centers completely on sumo. Early mornings for intense practice, followed by a large meal of chankonabe – a high-protein dish aimed at building mass – with rest periods.

The average wrestler consumes between multiple servings each sitting – thousands of calories – although legendary stories of massive eating exist in sumo history.

Rikishi intentionally gain weight to enhance leverage in the ring. Despite their size, they demonstrate remarkable flexibility, quick movements with strong bursts.

Nearly all elements of wrestlers' existence get controlled by their stable and governing body – creating a unique lifestyle among athletic professions.

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

Younger or lower ranked rikishi handle chores around the heya, whereas senior ones enjoy preferred treatment.

Competitive standings get determined through performance in six annual tournaments. Successful competitors advance, while those losing drop down in standing.

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

The highest level exists the rank of Grand Champion – the ultimate achievement. Yokozuna embody the essence of sumo – beyond mere competition.

Sumo Wrestlers Demographics

The sport includes several hundred wrestlers in professional sumo, with most being Japanese.

International competitors have participated significantly for decades, with Mongolian athletes achieving dominance currently.

Top champions feature global participants, with competitors from various nations achieving high ranks.

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