Sumo London to host grand sumo event in 2025

The five-day tour will feature matches between top-level wrestlers as well as the sport's ring-entering ceremony. Hakkaku, who won the previous London tournament as yokozuna, or grand champion, said the upcoming tour is being planned at a time when his sport is getting increased attention from non-Japanese. "Many foreign visitors are now coming, not only to the grand tournaments but also to training rooms," he said. "Because of that interest, I think it would be good to make traditional Japanese culture accessible." The sumo ring is set to be constructed at the hall by professionals from Tokyo working with local staff according to strict specifications. Arts management company Askonas Holt, the sponsor and organizer of the 1991 event, has returned to facilitate next year's tour. Even the dirt for the ring will be specially selected, organizers said, noting they have in mind a site outside London that previously provided the ideal soil.

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