Abu Dhabi, UAE – Space 42 Arena in Abu Dhabi will host the Sumo Stars Competition on September 26. Organized by the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi, this is the first international professional competition for this sport to be held in the UAE. To offer the public in the capital the opportunity to get to know one of Japan’s most prestigious and distinguished sports up close.
Nine elite professional sumo wrestlers “Rikishi” from Japan, Mongolia and Egypt are participating in the competition, competing in 36 fights. On a list of world champions and Emperor’s Cup winners. In addition to wrestlers with many years of experience in professional competitions.
traditional rituals
The event witnesses the official wrestlers’ entry procession into the ring and the traditional rituals that precede the fights. This allows attendees to learn about aspects of the centuries-old sumo tradition, in addition to sporting competitions.
Japanese Ichi tops the list of participants, and is one of the winners of the Emperor’s Cup, Japan’s highest professional sumo title. Along with his compatriot Hiroki, he is one of the biggest wrestlers active in the sport.
The list of participants also reflects the international spread of sumo outside Japan. Mongolian Mendy, the world youth sumo champion and international sumo champion, is participating. Along with Egyptian Rami El Gazzar, the international champion who won a number of titles, giving the audience in the region a special connection to the competitions.
The event is held in cooperation with USA Sumo, ensuring that competitions are presented according to professional standards while preserving the traditional character of the sport.
