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Sumo Returns to London as SNTV Captures Historic Event

Japan’s ancient sport of sumo wrestling made a triumphant return to London’s Royal Albert Hall, its first visit in 34 years and only the second official tournament ever held outside Japan.

Across five days, more than 40 elite wrestlers from Japan’s top division brought centuries of ritual and raw power to one of the world’s most iconic stages. The Grand Sumo Tournament concluded with Yokozuna Hoshoryu Tomokatsu defeating fellow Yokozuna Onosato Daiki in the final bout to claim victory.

SNTV was granted behind-the-scenes access to film the meticulous three-day construction of the sacred clay ring, or dohyo, built with eleven tonnes of clay from Kettering and crowned with a 1.3-tonne ceremonial canopy.

Originally planned for 2021, the event’s return coincided with the centenary of the Japan Sumo Association and celebrated the cultural ties between Japan and the United Kingdom. 

SNTV’s coverage of the event reached a global audience, with self-shot content used over 60 times by 34 outlets across 23 markets. The footage showcased the blend of tradition, ceremony and strength that defines sumo, capturing the sport’s historic return to London in spectacular fashion.

As a global sports news video partner, SNTV is committed to covering sports across the globe. If you want to hear more about how we can help with your coverage plans, please contact us.


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