Japan | The dark secrets of sumo wrestling

Unreported World is in Japan examining the darker side of Sumo wrestling, from health issues, to claims of bullying and concerns around head injuries.

Hoping to become a grand champion is 12-year-old Kyuta Kumugai, a rising star in the sport who trains six days a week. But Sahar Zand meets former wrestlers blowing the whistle on their experiences. Professional sumos eat, sleep and train seven days a week in training centres, called stables.

We hear that life in a stable is one of servitude, where junior wrestlers are beaten for breaking the rules, and some are made to headbutt wooden pole hundreds of times a day. The harsh and brutal sport comes with no weight classes and being overweight carries real advantages, and extra risks. We learn that Sumo wrestlers die 15-20 years younger than the average Japanese male.

November 2022