Sumo, you betcha
When you think about sumo wrestlers, the image of a super fat, morbidly obese man probably comes to mind.
But not for me.
I study those giants. I marvel at their strength, balance and flexibility, not to mention their technical skill.
The rikishi (what sumo wrestlers are called in Japan) don’t just throw and push in their bouts. They also slap each other in the face, throw elbows into eye sockets and throw their opponents off the dohyo and into the crowd.
Bloody bouts are common, as well as other injuries. It’s a brutal samurai sport.
Typically speaking, the bigger, stronger rikishi has the advantage. But nothing is guaranteed in their 15-day tournaments, called basho, that take place every two months, year round.
Once in awhile, a little guy emerges as the ultimate warrior. In the current basho, the shortest and lightest rikishi is stealing the show.
Midorifuji is 5’7” and 258 pounds. And after the first 10 days he has a perfect 10-0 record. He’s two wins ahead of those who are tied for second.
He’s facing guys that are as tall as 6’8” (most are around 6’2”) and 300-400+ pounds. And they’re mean as hell. Especially the Mongolians, who have played a huge role in keeping the sport alive.
Whenever you see a little guy dominating leviathans, you get my attention.
I wonder what he is doing to mentally and physically prepare.
Rooting for the little guy (or underdog) is not something I typically do, but in Midorifuji’s case, I’m cheering him on from afar. The guy is badass.
There’s still five more days to go, with plenty of opportunity for others to emerge as champion, but it will be a big day for sumo if the littlest guy in the ring is the last to leave (losers always leave first).
I’ll keep you posted on how this tournament plays out, in between my tales from the sauna.
In the interim, keep in mind that the shorter, smaller person can still rise to the top. There’s no universal law that says height and weight rule the day. There’s always a way for the little guy to win, if he physically prepares and sees himself at the top.
Sumo, you betcha!
Matt Furey