Inside Japan's Secretive World of Sumo

In Japan, journalist Sahar Zand investigates the hidden realities of sumo wrestling, a centuries-old sport steeped in tradition, prestige and secrecy. For Channel 4's Unreported World, she follows 12-year-old rising star Kyuta Kumagai, who trains six days a week in pursuit of his dream of becoming a grand champion.

But behind the sport's revered image, former wrestlers describe a harsh world of bullying, physical punishment and gruelling training inside sumo's tightly controlled stables. Through their accounts, Sahar examines the immense physical and psychological demands placed on wrestlers, from head injuries and extreme weight gain to the long-term health consequences of life in the ring.

Also on — Apple TV

Digital — Watch the short video

November 2022   ·   ITN Productions