Elite Sumo Wrestling Tournament Returns to London After 34 Years

The Grand Sumo Tournament promises to bring top wrestlers and an excited audience back to Britain.

Sumo wrestling is set to return to London as the Grand Sumo Tournament calls the Royal Albert Hall its venue for a five-day event starting on October 15, 2025. This marks the first time the prestigious tournament has taken place in the UK since 1991, when the Japan Sumo Association held its inaugural competition outside Japan at the same location.

Nobuyoshi Hakkaku, the chairman of the Japan Sumo Association and the champion of the 1991 basho, expressed optimism about the upcoming event, indicating that the current enthusiasm among fans may surpass the excitement seen three decades ago. "Back in 1991, the spectators were excited to watch sumo," Hakkaku noted at a news conference in London.

While various sumo events have taken place internationally in recent years — including in New York City — they were not all sanctioned by the Japan Sumo Association or featured top-ranked wrestlers. The return of this competition signifies not only a reunion of fans and athletes but also a chance to celebrate the rich culture and tradition of sumo on a grand stage.

As preparations ramp up, both British and Japanese organizers are thrilled at the prospect of rekindling the unique spirit of sumo wrestling in London and welcoming a diverse audience to share in the experience.