Japan's sumo wrestlers spotted in London's Albert Hall for the upcoming Grand Tournament. Image: Sky News.
(The Post News)– It is only the second time in history that a Grand Sumo Tournament has taken place outside Japan, remarkable for a sport with a tradition stretching back more than 1,500 years.
The spotlight is firmly on the sport’s two grand champions, or Yokozuna, Mongolia’s Hoshoryu Tomokatsu and Japan’s Onosato Daiki. Onosato made headlines earlier this year when he became the fastest wrestler in modern history to earn the sport’s highest rank.
“I am so happy sumo is back after all these years,” Onosato said. “I want to show the UK fans just how amazing sumo really is.”
For Hoshoryu, who follows in the footsteps of his uncle, also a former Yokozuna, the role comes with immense pride and pressure. “Being a Yokozuna carries a lot of responsibility,” he said. “We have to set an example for everyone, and that is not easy. My uncle never came to London as a Yokozuna, so I am especially proud to be here.”
The two champions recently clashed at the prestigious Aki Basho tournament in Japan, finishing the regular bouts with identical records. It all came down to a dramatic playoff, the first Yokozuna-versus-Yokozuna final in 16 years, with Onosato ultimately emerging victorious.
Last Sumo Tournament in London
The last time London hosted a tournament, back in the early 1990s, it featured the legendary Konishiki, nicknamed “The Dump Truck.” The Hawaiian heavyweight remains the largest rikishi in history, tipping the scales at a staggering 287 kilograms, or about 45 stone.
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