Allowed Moves
- Pushing
- Slapping
- Gripping the belt
- Throwing
- Tripping
Sumo Rules
Everything you need to know in one quick read.
The Simple Rules of Sumo
Two wrestlers, called rikishi, compete inside a circular ring called the dohyo.
To win, force your opponent to step outside the ring or touch the ground with any body part except the soles of their feet.
Forbidden Moves
- Striking with a closed fist
- Kicking
- Hair-pulling
- Choking
- Eye-gouging
- Hitting the groin
The Wrestlers
There are no weight classes, so a small rikishi can face someone twice their size. Size helps, but technique often wins.
The Match
Matches usually last only 5-30 seconds. Rikishi wear only a silk belt, the mawashi.
Matches begin with a ritual face-off, then an explosive initial charge called the tachi-ai.
Officials
The gyoji is the referee inside the ring who controls the match and declares the winner. The shimpan are the four ringside judges who can overrule the call if needed.
Tournaments
Grand sumo tournaments are held six times a year, each lasting 15 days. Rikishi fight once per day.
The Spirit of Sumo
Sumo is deeply rooted in Shinto. It is not only a sport: it is a ritual to honor the kami, bring good fortune, and show purity and respect.
During the match, the gyoji shouts Hakkeyoi!, often understood as Fight with spirit!
