Sumo Wrestling

Sumo wrestling is a traditional Japanese sport characterized by its unique style of wrestling between two opponents. Participants, known as rikishi, compete in a circular ring called a dohyo. The objective is to force the opponent out of the ring or to make any part of their body other than the soles of their feet touch the ground. Sumo has deep cultural significance in Japan, with rituals and ceremonies integrated into the sport, including the purification of the ring and the use of salt to ward off evil spirits. Matches are usually brief but can be highly intense, showcasing the wrestlers’ strength, balance, and technique. Sumo wrestling is also known for its distinctive attire, with wrestlers wearing a mawashi, a thick belt that wraps around their waist. The sport has various ranks, with the highest rank being yokozuna, who are expected to uphold certain standards of performance and behavior. Sumo wrestling continues to be a popular sport, drawing audiences and practitioners from around the world.