🔗 Share this article The Reason This Major Sumo Event is Being Held in London This Prestigious Sumo Competition Location: The Royal Albert Hall, London. Schedule: 15-19 October Exploring Japan's National Sport Sumo embodies Japan's iconic national sport, blending custom, discipline and Shinto religious rituals dating back over a millennium. This physical contest involves two competitors – called rikishi – competing inside a raised circular ring – the dohyo – measuring 4.55m (14.9 ft) across. Various rituals are performed both preceding and following every match, emphasizing the ceremonial aspects of the sport. Traditionally prior to competition, a hole is created at the center of the dohyo then filled with symbolic offerings by Shinto priests. The hole is closed, containing within divine presence. Sumo wrestlers then perform a ceremonial stomp and clap to scare away negative energies. Professional sumo is governed a rigid ranking system, and the wrestlers who participate dedicate their entire lives to it – residing and practicing communally. Why London? The Grand Sumo Tournament is taking place outside of Japan for just the second time, with the competition occurring in London from Wednesday, 15 October until Sunday, 19 October. The British capital with this iconic venue previously held the 1991 edition – the first time a tournament was staged beyond Japan in the sport's history. Explaining the reasoning behind going overseas, sumo leadership stated the intention to share with London audiences sumo's attraction – a historic Japanese tradition". The sport has experienced substantial growth in popularity globally in recent years, with overseas events could further boost the popularity of Japanese culture internationally. How Sumo Matches Work The basic rules in sumo wrestling are straightforward. The bout is decided once a wrestler is forced out from the ring or makes contact with anything other than the sole of his feet. Bouts might end almost instantly or continue several minutes. There exist two primary techniques. Aggressive pushers generally push their opponents from the arena by force, while belt-fighters choose to grip their opponent employing throwing techniques. High-ranking rikishi frequently excel in multiple combat styles and can adapt against different styles. There are dozens of victory moves, ranging from audacious throws to clever side-steps. The variety in moves and tactics keeps audiences engaged, so surprises and upsets can occur in any bout. Size categories are not used in sumo, making it normal to see rikishi of varying dimensions. Sumo rankings decides opponents rather than physical attributes. While women do compete in amateur sumo worldwide, they cannot enter elite competitions including major venues. Rikishi Lifestyle Professional rikishi live and train in communal facilities known as heya, under a stable master. The daily routine of a rikishi focuses entirely on sumo. Early mornings for intense practice, then consuming a large meal the traditional stew – a protein-rich preparation aimed at building mass – with rest periods. The average wrestler eats approximately six to 10 bowls per meal – approximately 10,000 calories – although legendary stories of massive eating exist in sumo history. Wrestlers intentionally gain weight for competitive advantage in the ring. Despite their size, they demonstrate remarkable flexibility, rapid reflexes with strong bursts. Nearly all elements of wrestlers' existence get controlled through their training house and governing body – making a unique lifestyle in professional sports. A wrestler's ranking determines their payment, living arrangements and even support staff. Junior or lower ranked wrestlers handle chores around the heya, whereas senior competitors receive special privileges. Competitive standings are established by results in six annual tournaments. Successful competitors advance, unsuccessful ones descend the rankings. Before each tournament, a new banzuke are released – a ceremonial list displaying everyone's status in professional sumo. At the summit exists the rank of Yokozuna – the ultimate achievement. Yokozuna represent the spirit of the sport – transcending winning. Sumo Wrestlers Demographics The sport includes 600 rikishi in professional sumo, primarily being Japanese. Foreign wrestlers have participated significantly for decades, with Mongolian athletes achieving dominance in recent times. Current Yokozuna feature international representatives, with competitors multiple countries reaching elite status. In recent news, foreign prospects have journeyed to Japan pursuing wrestling careers.