Sumo season is in full swing in Japan with the ongoing 2024 Nagoya basho featuring 15 consecutive days of thrilling sumo matches. Wrestlers from all levels of the Grand Sumo system come together to compete in the same arena to determine the top contender. The lower divisions often showcase remarkable moments with unexpected outcomes.
In a recent tournament, a muscular rikishi managed to bring down a larger opponent with a single-leg takedown. This time, two formidable wrestlers engaged in a heated slapping battle that resulted in one of them being knocked out on the dohyo, the sumo ring. You can watch the intense match in the video below.
The intense bout occurred in the makushita division on the fifth day of the tournament between Kaiseijo and Wakamiyabi. Kaiseijo emerged victorious after knocking out Wakamiyabi using a tsukiotoshi winning move. Despite online debates on the bout’s validity, it’s important to note that open-palm strikes are completely permissible in sumo matches.
Sumo wrestlers typically employ two main fighting styles: oshi-zumo, which focuses on pushing and thrusting, and yotsu-zumo, which emphasizes grappling techniques. When wrestlers utilizing the oshi-zumo technique face each other, it often results in vigorous pushing and slapping exchanges similar to the one witnessed in this match. Palm strikes are a common strategy aimed at pushing opponents out of the ring rather than causing harm.
Notable sumo wrestlers like Takakeisho and Hakuho are recognized for their distinct approaches to incorporating heavy slaps in their matches. Takakeisho utilizes slaps to disorient opponents and create strategic openings, while Hakuho employs forearm strikes known for their powerful impact.
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