Sumo wrestling is a traditional Japanese sport and a form of competitive full-contact wrestling. It involves two wrestlers, known as rikishi, who compete in a circular ring called a dohyō. 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 a long history in Japan, with roots that trace back over a thousand years, and it is deeply embedded in Japanese culture, rituals, and ceremonies. Wrestlers follow a strict regimen, which includes a specific diet to promote physical size and strength, as well as a distinctive set of rituals, including ring-entering ceremonies and the performance of cultural gestures to honor the sport’s traditions. Matches are often short but can be intense and dramatic, showcasing the physical prowess and technique of the wrestlers. Sumo wrestling is not only a sport but also a display of discipline, honor, and respect, making it an integral part of Japanese cultural heritage.
Asanoyama returns triumphantly to sumo, poised for a comeback at 31, following a journey marked by injury and resilience. Currently in the sandanme division, he aims to ascend to makushita,…