What is Sumo Wrestling?

Sumo wrestling is a traditional Japanese sport that involves two wrestlers, or rikishi, competing to force each other out of a circular ring (dohyo) or to the ground. It is Japan’s national sport and has a history dating back over 1,500 years. Sumo matches are known for their ritualistic elements and intense physicality.

Here’s an overview of how sumo wrestling works:

1. Preparation and Rituals: Before each match, wrestlers perform various rituals, including purifying the ring with salt, stamping their feet, and throwing salt to ward off evil spirits. These rituals are steeped in tradition and are meant to bring luck and protection to the wrestlers.
2. The Ring: Sumo matches take place in a circular ring called the dohyo, which is made of clay and surrounded by a straw bale. The ring has a diameter of about 4.55 meters (15 feet) and is slightly raised off the ground.
3. The Match: A sumo match begins with the wrestlers facing each other in the centre of the ring. They perform a series of ritualistic movements before the referee (gyoji) signals the start of the bout.
4. Techniques and Strategies: Sumo wrestlers use a variety of techniques to gain an advantage over their opponent. These techniques include pushing (oshi), grappling (yotsu), throwing (nage), and tripping (hatakikomi). Wrestlers aim to either force their opponent out of the ring (yori-kiri) or to the ground (oshi-taoshi or tsuki-otoshi).
5. Victory: The match ends when one wrestler is pushed out of the ring or touches the ground with any part of their body other than the soles of their feet. The wrestler who wins the bout is declared the victor.
6. Ranking System: Sumo wrestlers are ranked based on their performance in tournaments and their overall record. The highest rank is yokozuna, followed by ozeki, sekiwake, and komusubi. Wrestlers are promoted or demoted based on their performance in tournaments, with the highest-ranking wrestlers competing in the most prestigious matches.

The history of Japanese sumo

The history of Japanese Sumo dates back centuries and is deeply rooted in Japanese culture. Sumo wrestling is considered Japan’s national sport and has evolved over time into a highly ritualized and revered form of competition.

Origins: The origins of sumo are believed to be religious and ceremonial, with roots in ancient Shinto rituals dating back over 1,500 years. Early Sumo matches were held as offerings to the gods to ensure a bountiful harvest and to pray for the prosperity of the community. These matches were performed in Shinto shrines and were part of various seasonal festivals.

Development: Over time, sumo evolved from a purely religious ritual into a form of entertainment and sport. By the 17th century, sumo had become a professional sport, with wrestlers organized into stables (heya) and competing in tournaments (basho). Sumo wrestlers, known as rikishi, began to gain popularity and prestige, with successful wrestlers becoming national icons. 

Professionalization: The modern sumo organization, known as the Japan Sumo Association (Nihon Sumo Kyokai), was established in the late 19th century. The association standardized the rules and regulations of sumo wrestling and established the professional ranking system that is still in use today. Sumo tournaments, known as basho, are held six times a year in Japan, with three taking place in Tokyo and others in different cities.

Traditions and Rituals: Sumo is not just a sport but also a deeply traditional and ritualistic practice. Before each match, wrestlers perform elaborate rituals, including purifying the ring with salt, stamping their feet, and throwing salt to ward off evil spirits. The matches themselves are brief but intense, with wrestlers using a variety of techniques to force their opponent out of the ring or to the ground.

Ranking System: Sumo wrestlers are ranked based on their performance in tournaments and their overall record. The highest rank is yokozuna, which is held by only a select few wrestlers who have demonstrated exceptional skill and dominance. Below yokozuna are several other ranks, including ozeki, sekiwake, and komusubi, each with its own requirements and prestige.

Sumo wrestling is not just a sport but also a deeply ingrained cultural practice in Japan. It embodies principles of discipline, respect, and tradition, and continues to captivate audiences both in Japan and around the world.