In a significant return, Sumo will host its first overseas tournament in 20 years at London’s Royal Albert Hall next October. Organised by the Japan Sumo Association (JSA), the event commemorates the association’s centenary and will feature a specially constructed ring with select dirt. This occasion marks the second time Sumo has been held at this iconic venue, following a successful event in 1991. With over 40 wrestlers expected to compete, the anticipation is building.

The last overseas Sumo tournament took place in Las Vegas in 2005, and since then, the sport has primarily remained within Japan. Sumo’s global outreach began as early as 1965 when it first visited the USSR. The Royal Albert Hall, established in 1871, has a rich history of hosting diverse sporting events, including boxing and professional wrestling. This upcoming event not only highlights the cultural exchange between Japan and the UK but also celebrates a landmark in Sumo’s history.

The Royal Albert Hall’s hosting of the Sumo tournament underscores the sport’s growing international presence and its cultural significance. With high hopes from competitors like Kitanowaka aiming for victory, the event promises to be a celebration of tradition and athleticism. As Hakkaku noted, the return of Sumo to London fosters a sense of unity in today’s divided world.

Original Source: www.france24.com

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