Sumo Saga
Sumo is a traditional Japanese form of competitive wrestling with roots dating back centuries. Two wrestlers, or rikishi, face off in a circular ring called a dohyō, aiming to force their opponent out of the ring or make them touch the ground with any part of their body besides their feet. Matches are intense but brief, often lasting only seconds, relying on strength, balance, and technique. Sumo is deeply tied to Shinto rituals, with ceremonies such as salt-throwing to purify the ring before bouts. Wrestlers follow strict training regimens and live in communal stables, adhering to traditions that emphasize discipline and respect. Professional sumo is organized into divisions, with the highest-ranked wrestlers competing in grand tournaments held six times a year. The sport remains a revered cultural icon in Japan.