FROM THE HISTORY OF SUMO WRESTLING

Abstract

Sumo is one of the oldest national wrestling styles in Japan. It is believed that the word "sumo" originated from the Japanese verb "sumafu." From this verb, the noun "sumahi" was derived, which, over hundreds of years, evolved into "sumai" and later into "sumo."

The earliest records of sumo appear in Japan’s oldest written monument, the Kojiki. In ancient times, the Japanese believed that a victorious wrestler was under the gods' protection and was thus revered as a living talisman, bringing happiness  and  a  bountiful harvest.

Modern sumo traces its origins to the Edo period. During the Edo era, around 70 techniques were fully developed, rituals were established, and competition rules were refined – remaining almost unchanged to this day. The highest rank in sumo is Yokozuna, a title that has existed for approximately 300 years. Sumo wrestling is known for its unique rituals. This article provides a brief overview of the history, rules, and traditions of sumo wrestling.