LONDON, Oct 16 (News On Japan) - The first grand sumo tournament in London in 34 years opened on October 15th, transforming the iconic Royal Albert Hall into a little corner of Japan and drawing more than 5,400 spectators for a spectacular night of traditional wrestling.
The event, part of a special overseas exhibition, brought together the sport’s top rikishi for an unforgettable showcase of skill, strength, and culture.
Before the bouts began, yokozuna Onosato performed the ceremonial ring-entering ritual, flanked by the traditional sword bearer and dew sweeper, to rousing applause from the crowd. As commentators welcomed the audience to “day one highlights of the Grand Sumo tournament,” the scene captured a rare fusion of Japanese heritage and British enthusiasm inside one of London’s most prestigious venues.
The tournament opened with veteran rikishi Tamawashi, 40, overpowering his opponent with relentless thrusts to secure an early victory. In the following bout, yokozuna Hoshoryu demonstrated his dominance against Hakuo, controlling the match chest-to-chest and sealing a decisive win that drew loud cheers from the audience.
The excitement reached its peak in the final match of the evening, where Onosato faced one of the division’s lowest-ranked wrestlers, Ura. The bout began with a powerful charge from Ura, but Onosato quickly pushed back, fending off a leg pick attempt before gaining a firm left-hand grip and executing a decisive overarm throw. There was brief speculation about a review, but the victory was declared clear, solidifying Onosato’s status as the top dog of the tournament’s opening day.
Earlier, spectators had already shown their enthusiasm outside the venue, gathering for photos with the wrestlers and waving banners in support. Inside, they erupted in cheers as Onosato’s throw over Ura sent the crowd into a frenzy, with many describing the atmosphere as electric. “It’s the best night I’ve had in years,” said one attendee who had also watched the 1991 London exhibition. Another fan added, “It’s astonishing to see such massive athletes perform with incredible skill — one of the most thrilling moments in sports.”
Onosato said he was touched by the uniquely British response, noting how fans cheered not only for the dramatic bouts but also for the rituals and gestures such as throwing salt and stomping the dohyo. “I’m happy that they were interested in every movement,” he said. “We still have four days to go, and I hope to keep building the excitement.”
With both yokozuna victorious on opening night, the return of sumo to British soil has made a powerful impression. The London tournament — a rare overseas celebration of one of Japan’s oldest sporting traditions — continues at the Royal Albert Hall through October 19th, promising more drama and unforgettable moments in the days ahead.
