Sumo Wrestling

Japanese tradition · wrestling · strength

Ancient Sport. Sumo has been practiced in Japan for over 1,500 years and is deeply connected to Shinto religious ceremonies. It's one of the oldest organized sports still played today.

Called Rikishi. Professional sumo wrestlers are called rikishi, and they train for many years to master the sport. Some rikishi become famous celebrities in Japan!

The Dohyō Ring. Wrestlers compete on a circular platform called a dohyō, which is only about 15 feet across. You lose if your opponent pushes you out of the ring or makes you touch the ground with anything but your feet.

Incredibly Strong. Top sumo wrestlers can weigh over 300 pounds of muscle and use lightning-fast moves to defeat opponents. Despite their size, they're surprisingly quick and agile.

Ranking System. Sumo wrestlers climb through different ranks based on their wins and losses, with the highest rank being yokozuna, or grand champion. These champions are treated like national treasures in Japan.