Why Does the Yobidashi Call East or West First? Odd and Even Days
The yobidashi does not always introduce the E…
What Does Tozai Tozai Mean Before Sumo’s Final Bout?
The yobidashi’s elongated *tozai tozai*…
How Does a Sumo Bout Start? Tachiai, Matta and a Common Misconception
Professional sumo has no third-party starting…
Who Are the Wrestlers Sitting Ringside? They Arrive Two Bouts Early
The wrestlers seated immediately below the ea…
Who Makes Sumo’s Daily Matchups? How the Wari Is Built
Sumo’s ringside judges compose the matc…
Why Is a Sumo Ring Name Called Twice? Listening for Futagoe
The double call in the final juryo bout prese…
What Is Shikiri in Sumo? How the Waiting Becomes Part of the Bout
Shikiri is the pre-bout preparation in which …
Where Do Sumo’s Five Ringside Judges Sit? A One-Seat Viewing Guide
Five judges sit around the raised ring during…
Mizu-iri in Sumo: How a Long Bout Is Paused and Restored
A *mizu-iri*, literally a “water break,” may …
How Does a Sumo Wrestler Lose? Watch the First Losing Contact
Japan Sumo Association introductory material …