The Ultimate Beginner’s Guide To Sumo Wrestling And Betting

Sumo wrestling, a unique and captivating sport rooted in Japanese tradition, often remains unfamiliar to many. In this Gamingzion.com article, we’ll explore its origins, the life of a sumo wrestler, and the rules that govern the ring. Furthermore, we’ll look into the betting options to add even more excitement into the mix.

Sumo Wrestling – A Japanese Tradition

Sumo is the national sport of Japan. It’s a unique form of wrestling with deep historical roots. This ancient sport involves two wrestlers competing in a ring made of clay and sand. The goal is to force your opponent out of the ring or to make them touch the ground with any part of their body other than the soles of their feet. Sumo wrestlers, known as rikishi, undergo rigorous training and adhere to strict traditions. The sport is not only a physical contest but also a cultural expression, reflecting the values of discipline, honour, and respect that are deeply ingrained in Japanese society.

The Origins Of Sumo Wrestling

Sumo’s origins can be traced back to ancient times, where it was initially performed as a form of entertainment for Shinto deities. Although this practice is no longer followed, many of the traditions from that era, like the purification of the sumo ring with salt and the ritualistic clapping of hands, persist today. Sumo matches were believed to please the gods and ensure bountiful harvests. During the Edo period (1603-1868), sumo gained popularity among the common people and became a regulated sport, often used to raise funds for religious institutions.

What Does “Sumo” Mean?

The term “sumo” (相撲) directly translates to “to mutually rush at [one another],” accurately capturing the essence of the sport. It can also be interpreted as “to compete.”

What Do Sumo Wrestlers Wear?

The mawashi, the traditional garment worn by sumo wrestlers, is a long belt that wraps around the wrestler’s body and groin. Its design, which leaves the groin area exposed, originated in ancient times as a way to prove the wrestlers’ honesty to the gods.

While canvas mawashi are often used during practice, silk ones are preferred for formal matches. The tightness of the mawashi can vary, with some wrestlers opting for tighter belts for grip control and others choosing looser ones for greater mobility.

When Do Sumo Wrestling Matches Take Place?

As of the time of writing, Japan hosts six Grand Sumo tournaments annually, each featuring over 160 matches in a single day. According to online sportsbook news in the US, three of these tournaments take place in Tokyo, while the remaining three are held in traditional Japanese cities: Osaka, Nagoya, and Fukuoka. These tournaments are spread throughout the year.

The Rules Of Sumo Wrestling

Unlike many other sports, sumo wrestling does not have weight categories. This allows wrestlers of various sizes to compete, emphasising the importance of technique and strategy over sheer strength. While a larger wrestler might have an advantage in terms of weight, a smaller wrestler can often be more agile and evade attacks. Those of you thinking about betting on sumo will be glad to hear that the rules of sumo are relatively straightforward. The first wrestler to touch the ground with any part of their body other than the soles of their feet or to step outside the ring is considered defeated.

However, certain actions, such as eye gouging, hair pulling, crotch grabbing, choking, and punching with a closed fist, are prohibited. Yet slapping and lunging at the opponent’s throat are permitted. After a match, the winning wrestler remains in the ring and purifies it with salt, a tradition rooted in Shinto beliefs. This ritual is believed to ward off evil spirits and consecrate the ring as a sacred space. Following the purification, the two wrestlers bow to each other as a sign of respect, and the loser exits the ring.

The Rigorous Life Of A Sumo Wrestler

The life of a sumo wrestler is characterised by strict discipline and dedication. From their training regimens to their dietary habits, rikishi adhere to a strict lifestyle that is integral to their success. One of the most intriguing aspects of sumo is how wrestlers maintain their large size while also staying healthy. While the sport encourages weight gain, it’s important to remember that rikishi are athletes who need to be in peak physical condition. Their training routines, which often involve intense physical exertion, contribute to their overall health.

Sumo wrestlers typically live in training stables, known as heya, from a young age. These stables provide a communal environment where wrestlers train, eat, and sleep together. The prize money earned by a wrestler is often shared with their stable, fostering a sense of camaraderie and teamwork. A typical day for a rikishi involves morning training sessions, followed by a meal and free time. Many wrestlers choose to sleep during this time to promote growth and recovery. This balance between training and rest is essential for maintaining their health and performance.

The Sumo Wrestler’s Diet – A Balancing Act

Despite their large size and high calorie intake, sumo wrestlers generally maintain good health. This is attributed to their rigorous training regimens, which help prevent the accumulation of visceral fat. While visceral fat is linked to serious health issues like heart attacks and strokes, sumo wrestlers’ training effectively counteracts its buildup. The cornerstone of a sumo wrestler’s diet is chanko-nabe, a hearty stew made with ingredients like rice, vegetables, meats, and fish. This dish is typically served with a variety of side dishes, including traditional Japanese, Chinese, and deep-fried foods. The high calorie content of chanko-nabe is essential for supporting the wrestlers’ weight gain.

While chanko-nabe has gained popularity among athletes and those seeking to gain weight, it’s important to note that without the accompanying intense training, it can pose health risks. Sumo wrestlers must carefully balance their calorie intake with their physical activity. But retired wrestlers may face challenges related to obesity if they do not adjust their diet accordingly. Studies have shown that retired sumo wrestlers have a shorter life expectancy compared to the average Japanese man. This is due to the difficulties associated with maintaining a healthy weight after leaving the sport.

A Typical Sumo Wrestler’s Day

A sumo wrestler’s day typically begins at the crack of dawn, around 5 AM. Their training sessions, which can last up to six hours, are far from ordinary. Sumo workouts emphasise strength, endurance, and agility. The day starts with a thorough warm-up to prepare the body for the intense training that follows. Stretching, callisthenics, and numerous practice matches with fellow wrestlers are integral components of a sumo wrestler’s routine. These workouts focus on mastering the techniques and strategies required for success in the ring.

Beyond traditional sumo techniques, wrestlers also engage in exercises like koshi-wari (sumo squats), mata-wari (leg splits), and chiri-chozu (an opening ritual performed in a squatting position). Some of these exercises have gained popularity in Western fitness regimens. However, sumo training also includes more extreme methods, such as intense physical punishment, which can be a controversial aspect of the sport. These demanding practices are designed to push wrestlers to their limits and build both physical and mental toughness.

Top Sumo Wrestlers To Watch

While the legendary Hakuho has retired, the world of sumo continues to be filled with exciting talent. Here are some of the top-ranked active wrestlers to keep an eye on:

• Terunofuji – A Mongolian wrestler, Terunofuji is the current highest-ranked active sumo wrestler. Despite facing health challenges, he has made a remarkable comeback, achieving the prestigious rank of yokozuna.
• Takakeishō – A rising star from Hyōgo Prefecture, Takakeishō has already won two makuuchi championships and holds the rank of East Ozeki. His career has been marked by resilience and determination.
• Shōdai – Representing the Tokitsukaze stable, Shōdai has quickly risen through the ranks to become a one-time makuuchi champion and West Ozeki. His impressive performances have solidified his position as a top contender.

How To Experience Sumo Wrestling Live

If you’re captivated by the world of sumo and want to witness a match in person, Japan offers several opportunities. While smaller local events are available, attending one of the six major sumo tournaments provides the most comprehensive experience.

Catching A Sumo Match

For those visiting Japan outside of the tournament season, special exhibition matches and university sumo clubs can offer glimpses into the sport. Some sumo stables may also allow you to observe their morning training sessions. However, these opportunities can be limited. If you’re fortunate enough to be in Japan during a tournament period, attending a grand sumo tournament is highly recommended. These events showcase the best wrestlers in the country and offer an unforgettable experience.

The Six Grand Sumo Tournaments

The Japan Sumo Association governs six major sumo tournaments, known as honbasho, held throughout the year. Three of these tournaments take place in Tokyo (January, May, and September), while the others are held in Osaka (March), Nagoya (July), and Fukuoka (November). Each tournament spans 15 days. The Tokyo tournaments are held at the Kokugikan, while the Osaka tournament takes place at the EDION Arena Osaka.

Nagoya’s tournament is hosted at the DOLPHINS ARENA, and Fukuoka’s at the Fukuoka Kokusai Center. Sumo tournaments are structured into divisions, with lower-ranked wrestlers competing earlier in the day. The second division, juryo, begins at 3 PM, and the top division, makuuchi, commences at 4 PM. Between matches, spectators can enjoy the captivating ring-entering ceremonies, which showcase ancient traditions and rituals that add to the overall sumo experience.

Where To Sit At Sumo Wrestling Matches

When attending a sumo wrestling match, you’ll have the choice of three seating options:

• Ringside Seats: These are the most coveted and expensive seats, offering a close-up view of the action. However, they also carry the risk of you being splashed with sweat or even being hit by a falling wrestler.
• Box Seats: Most of the arena consists of traditional Japanese-style boxes that accommodate four people. Like ringside seats, you’ll need to remove your shoes. Box seats are ideal for groups, but you’ll need to purchase tickets for all four seats, even if your group is smaller. Expect to pay around ¥38,000 (approximately $332) per box.
• Balcony Seats: These are Western-style seats that are located farther from the ring and offer a less immersive experience. However, they are more affordable, typically costing around ¥3,800 (approximately $33).

Where To Bet On Sumo Wrestling

While sumo wrestling is primarily popular in Japan, it’s gaining traction globally. This has led to increased betting interest, with many online sportsbooks offering odds on sumo matches. While the legality of such betting varies by jurisdiction, reputable international platforms like Bet365 Sportsbook often provide options for those interested in wagering on sumo. As the sport’s popularity grows, more bookmakers are likely to include sumo betting in their offerings. It’s important to keep in mind that virtually all forms of gambling are illegal in Japan, including it’s most popular game, Pachinko. For sports fans, only horse and motorboat racing, along with bicycle racing are allowed. That’s why you’ll need to use an offshore bookie to place bets on sumo. If you look at our list of top online gambling sites in the US, there’s plenty to choose from.

Popular Sumo Wrestling Bets

There are two primary ways to bet on sumo wrestling: individual match betting and tournament outright betting. For individual matches, odds are typically displayed as decimal fractions. For example, odds of 1.91 indicate that a $10 bet would yield a total return of $19.10 (including the initial stake). The odds for individual matches reflect the perceived likelihood of each wrestler winning. If two wrestlers are considered evenly matched, their odds will be similar. However, if one wrestler is seen as a clear favourite, their odds will be lower, while their opponent’s odds will be higher. This offers potential for greater returns but also increases the risk. To bet on a tournament outright, you’re essentially predicting which wrestler will win the entire competition. This involves multiple wins and carries higher risk, but also the potential for larger payouts.

Final Thoughts

Sumo wrestling offers a unique and captivating experience. To learn more, we suggest that you start by watching old matches on YouTube or attending a live event in Japan. Discover the fascinating world of sumo and explore the betting possibilities at Bet365 Sportsbook. We suggest this sportsbook because of the generous bonuses they give new players, plus the massive number of betting markets they cover. Finally, we should point out that they are a properly regulated website, with licensing from some of the world’s most reputable issuing authorities including the UK Gambling Commission. 

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