Sumo‘s Ancient Rituals Find New Fans in London, Fueled by Online Communities
LONDON – A historic Grand Sumo tournament held in London this weekend wasn’t just a display of Japan‘s national sport; it was a meeting point for a rapidly growing international fandom, many of whom connected initially through online communities. The event, a first for the UK, drew enthusiastic crowds eager to witness the centuries-old traditions firsthand, demonstrating sumo’s expanding global reach in the digital age.
The convergence of ancient ritual and modern fandom highlights a shift in how niche sports gain traction. While sumo has long held a dedicated following in Japan, online platforms like Reddit have fostered a thriving international community, connecting fans and fueling interest in the sport. This weekend’s tournament provided an unprecedented opportunity for these virtual connections to materialize into a shared, in-person experience.
Fans like Sian described the experience as ”quite special,” emphasizing the allure of the ceremony surrounding sumo. “Seeing all this ritual and ceremony that goes with sumo is quite special,” she said. “Now, seeing it in person, you feel like you are more part of it.”
The event resonated with attendees from diverse backgrounds, including Julia and Cesar, who noted the welcoming atmosphere. “it’s a Japanese sport but we didn’t feel out of place, so many people from all around the world around us,” they shared.
For dedicated fans like Dan Milne-morey,Megha Okhai,and Caspar Eliot – who proudly displayed sumo towels representing their favourite rikishi (sumo wrestlers) – the tournament was a culmination of their online engagement. Megha explained that the drama of the competition, combined with the chance to connect with fellow enthusiasts, made the experience invaluable. “Getting out of a very niche Reddit community and being able to see all these sumo fans in person and being able to chat with other people who are just as into this as we are – it was worth every penny of sumo gold.”
The London tournament marks a potential turning point for sumo’s international expansion, leveraging the power of online communities to cultivate a broader and more engaged audience. Viewers unable to attend can tune in via BBC iPlayer,the BBC red Button,the BBC Sport website,and app.
