Sumo wrestling serves as much more than just a sport in Japan. It functions as a sacred religious ritual that dates back over 1,500 years. Furthermore, the wrestlers live a highly regimented life deep within traditional stables. Consequently, every aspect of their existence is governed by strict historical rules. Explore these fascinating details about the giants of the dohyo.
Sumo
Professional wrestlers consume a massive stew called chanko nabe every day. This protein-rich soup helps them consume up to 7,000 calories daily to maintain their bulk.
A referee, known as a gyoji, carries a small dagger inside his robes. Historically, this symbolized his willingness to kill himself if he made a bad call during a match.
Sumo wrestlers are strictly forbidden from driving cars. Therefore, you will often see them taking taxis or riding public transportation to get around Tokyo.
They must grow their hair long to form a topknot called a chonmage. Additionally, hairdressers use a special wax with a sweet smell to keep the intricate style in place.
Women cannot enter the wrestling ring under any circumstances. The Shinto tradition considers the ring sacred, and they believe the presence of women would spiritually pollute the space.
The wrestlers toss salt into the ring before every single match. They do this specifically to purify the ground and drive away evil spirits before the fight begins.
Orora Satoshi holds the record as the heaviest wrestler in history. Astonishingly, he weighed an incredible 644 pounds (292 kilograms) at his peak weight.
Lower-ranked wrestlers must serve the higher-ranked stars. Consequently, the younger recruits cook, clean, and even wash the backs of the champions during bath time.
They participate in a bizarre competition called the Crying Baby Sumos. Wrestlers hold babies in the ring, and the first child to cry is declared the winner.
The heavy loincloths, or mawashi, are never washed. Instead, the athletes dry them in the sun to kill bacteria, believing that washing them would wash away good luck.
Interestingly, sumo allows foreigners to compete and reach the highest rank. Athletes from Mongolia, Hawaii, and Georgia have all become grand champions in recent decades.
They immediately take a long nap after eating their large midday meal. This specific routine forces the body to store the massive amount of calories as fat and muscle.
A sumo wrestler typically has a life expectancy that is 10 years shorter than the average Japanese male. Sadly, the strain of extreme weight takes a heavy toll on their hearts and joints.
The highest rank of Yokozuna is extremely difficult to achieve. In fact, there have been fewer than 80 grand champions in the entire recorded history of the sport.
Finally, winners receive piles of cash directly on the spot. Sponsors place envelopes of money on the banners that circle the ring before a popular match starts.
