Historic Sumo Wrestling Event Set for London After Three Decades

The Grand Sumo Tournament is returning to London in October 2025, marking a significant cultural event as the Japan Sumo Association hosts its first competition in Britain in over thirty years.

Sumo wrestling is poised for a grand return to London, with the Japan Sumo Association announcing the Grand Sumo Tournament at the Royal Albert Hall. This five-day event is set to take place from October 15, 2025, making it the first official competition in Britain since 1991.

The upcoming tournament holds historical significance, as the 1991 event at the same venue marked the organization's debut outside Japan. Nobuyoshi Hakkaku, chairman of the Japan Sumo Association and also a champion from that event, expressed optimism during a recent press conference. He anticipated that the excitement from British fans would echo, if not surpass, the energy felt over three decades ago.

“Back in 1991, the spectators were excited to watch sumo,” Hakkaku said, reminiscing about the nerves he felt not just for the competition but for speaking in English during the closing ceremony. His sentiments were shared among event organizers, who expect a similar, if not heightened, enthusiasm among attendees.

While sumo has been showcased in other countries, including recent tournaments in New York, this particular event represents a direct collaboration with the Japan Sumo Association, making it unique. The tournament is anticipated to feature high-ranking wrestlers from Japan’s top division, further raising expectations for a thrilling display of the traditional sport.