Sumo International Downunder

Overview

Want to experience the buzz of live sumo without the hassle of that long flight to Tokyo? You're in luck, because you can experience the thunder of one of Japan's most ancient and traditional sports here in Australia over one action-packed weekend.

On Friday, January 19 and Sunday, January 21, Melbourne and Sydney respectively will play host to 'Sumo International Downunder'. Punters will get to experience all the show and panache that comes with live sumo, including a traditional pre-match Taiko drumming show.

Hiroki Sumi, a huge figure in the sumo world, will be the star of the show. Known for his appearance in Netflix's 2023 series Sanctuary, he has gained international recognition beyond traditional sumo circles. Although he plays a fictional character in the series, Sumi is a genuine world-class sumo wrestler, and his appearance in Australia is a massive get.

Special VIP tickets are available if you fancy donning a mawashi (sumo belt) and trying some sumo wrestling on stage. VIPs will also get an exclusive meet-and-greet with the sumo wrestlers, including Sumi himself.

Melbourne's Festival Hall will host two events on the same day, with the first starting at 11am and the second at 6pm, while Sydney's Aware Super Theatre will host the final show at 7pm.

Alessio Roversi (Unsplash)