London Hosts Historic Sumo Tournament, Crowning Hoshoryu as Champion
London’s Royal Albert Hall played host to a landmark sumo wrestling tournament this weekend, marking a significant moment for the ancient Japanese sport as it expands its global reach. The event, which concluded with an emotional farewell from the wrestlers to the London crowd, saw Mongolian-born Hoshoryu Tomokatsu defeat Onosato Daiki in a thrilling final bout.
Sumo wrestling boasts a rich history,with onyl 75 individuals ever achieving the rank of yokozuna – sumo’s highest honour. Currently, only two wrestlers hold this title: Hoshoryu and Onosato.The London tournament provided a rare opportunity for international audiences to witness the power and tradition of sumo firsthand. Aonishiki, a 21-year-old Ukrainian wrestler who fled his war-torn country, was among the competitors, receiving a prize of 10,000 yen (approximately £50) for his efforts.
