All-Star sumo to make Middle East debut in Abu Dhabi
Nine elite wrestlers will compete in 36 bouts as tournament brings professional Japanese sumo to region
ABU DHABI, UAE (MNTV) — Abu Dhabi is set to host the Middle East debut of the All-Star Sumo competition on September 26, bringing nine experienced wrestlers to Space42 Arena for a round-robin tournament.
The event will feature 36 rapid-fire bouts involving competitors with a combined 65 years of professional Japanese sumo experience, according to the organizers.
Among the leading names are ICHI, a former sekiwake and Emperor’s Cup winner, and HIROKI, who weighs 250 kilograms.
The wrestler with the strongest record at the end of the competition will be named the inaugural All-Star Sumo Champion in Abu Dhabi.
Four of the competitors — ICHI, HIROKI, MENDEE and ZORIG — have previously won All-Star Sumo tournaments.
The competition has been held in cities around the world since 2014. Its September 26 event in Abu Dhabi will mark its first appearance in the Middle East and the first competition of its scale in the region.
The program will also give spectators an opportunity to experience elements of Japanese sumo culture alongside the sporting contests. Organizers said the event will include traditional sumo-related activities, live taiko drumming, food and beverages, and sumo merchandise.
The event is scheduled as a one-night competition at Space42 Arena, with doors opening at 6 p.m. and matches beginning at 7 p.m.
VIP ticket holders will also have access to a post-event meet-and-greet session, where they can meet and take photographs with participating wrestlers.
The competition is being hosted by the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi in cooperation with USA Sumo and Space42 Arena.
Organizers said the event is intended to bring elite professional sumo to audiences outside Japan while showcasing the sport’s traditions alongside its competitive format.
The Abu Dhabi event will take place at Space42 Arena on Al Raha Street, with a press conference scheduled for September 24 at the same venue.
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