π Share this article The Reason the Grand Sumo Tournament Takes Place in London The Grand Sumo Tournament Venue: The Royal Albert Hall, the British Capital. Schedule: October 15th through 19th Understanding Japan's National Sport Sumo represents the traditional sport of Japan, blending custom, discipline and Shinto religious rituals dating back more than 1,000 years. This combat sport involves two competitors β called rikishi β competing within a circular arena β a dohyo β measuring 4.55m (14.9 ft) across. Various rituals take place both preceding and following each bout, highlighting the traditional nature in sumo. Customarily prior to competition, a hole is made at the center of the dohyo then filled with nuts, squid, seaweed and sake through Shinto ceremonies. The hole gets sealed, containing within divine presence. Sumo wrestlers subsequently execute a ritual stamp and clap to drive off bad spirits. Professional sumo operates under a rigid ranking system, with competitors involved dedicate their entire lives to it β residing and practicing in group settings. The London Location The Grand Sumo Tournament is taking place outside of Japan for just the second time, as the tournament taking place in London beginning October 15th until Sunday, 19 October. London and The Royal Albert Hall previously held the 1991 edition β the first time such an event was staged outside Japan in the sport's history. Clarifying the decision for the international competition, sumo leadership stated the intention to "convey with London audiences sumo's attraction β an ancient traditional Japanese culture". The sport has experienced a significant rise in international interest globally in recent years, and a rare international tournament could further boost the popularity of traditional Japan abroad. Sumo Bout Mechanics The fundamental regulations in sumo wrestling are straightforward. The bout concludes once a wrestler is forced out from the ring or makes contact using anything besides the sole of his feet. Bouts can conclude almost instantly or last several minutes. There exist two primary techniques. Pusher-thrusters typically shove their opponents out of the ring by force, whereas grapplers choose to grip the other rikishi employing judo-like throws. Elite wrestlers frequently excel in multiple combat styles adjusting to their opponents. There are dozens of victory moves, ranging from audacious throws strategic evasions. The variety in moves and tactics maintains fan interest, meaning unexpected results may happen during any match. Weight classes are not used in sumo, making it normal to observe wrestlers with significant size differences. Sumo rankings determine matchups rather than body measurements. Although female athletes can participate in amateur sumo globally, they're excluded from professional tournaments including major venues. Life as a Sumo Wrestler Sumo wrestlers live and train in communal facilities called heya, led by a head trainer. The daily routine of a rikishi centers completely on sumo. They rise early dedicated to training, followed by a substantial lunch of chankonabe β a protein-rich preparation designed for weight gain β with rest periods. The average wrestler consumes between multiple servings per meal β approximately 10,000 calories β with notable instances of massive eating are documented. Wrestlers purposely increase mass for competitive advantage in the ring. Despite their size, they demonstrate remarkable flexibility, quick movements with strong bursts. Virtually every aspect of rikishi life are regulated through their training house and the Sumo Association β making a unique lifestyle among athletic professions. Competitive standing determines their payment, living arrangements and even personal assistants. Younger less established rikishi handle chores around the heya, while higher ranked competitors receive special privileges. Sumo rankings are established by results during yearly events. Wrestlers with winning records move up, unsuccessful ones descend in standing. Before each tournament, a new banzuke gets published β a traditional document showing all wrestlers' positions within the sport. The highest level exists the rank of Yokozuna β the pinnacle position. These champions represent the essence of sumo β beyond mere competition. Who Becomes a Rikishi There are approximately 600 rikishi competing professionally, primarily being Japanese. International competitors have participated significantly over years, with Mongolian athletes reaching top levels in recent times. Top champions feature global participants, with competitors from various nations reaching elite status. In recent news, foreign prospects have journeyed to the homeland seeking wrestling careers.