Sumo Sumo wrestling sees record-breaking ticket sales

Sumo wrestling has seen a resurgence in popularity this year. For the first time in 28 years, tickets for all fifteen days of each of the six grand tournaments, including the upcoming Fukuoka meet, have sold out. This surge in interest is reminiscent of the mid-1990s when brothers Wakanohana and Takanohana boosted the sport's popularity. After a period of decline due to scandals, sumo has experienced a revival, with average attendance reaching around 80% between 2017 and 2019.

The Kyushu Grand Sumo Tournament, the last meet of 2024, begins on Nov. 10, with much attention paid to the new ozeki Onosato. In September, Onosato won his second top-division title in three tournaments and was promoted to the second-highest rank at a record pace of nine professional meets.

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