Abu Dhabi is preparing to make sporting history this month as it welcomes one of Japan’s oldest and most revered disciplines to the capital for the very first time. The All-Star Sumo Competition, organised by the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi), will take over Space42 Arena on Saturday, September 26, marking the UAE’s first international professional sumo event.
The UAE’s First Global Professional Sumo Games Are Coming to Abu Dhabi
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Who’s Competing
Nine elite rikishi from Japan, Mongolia and Egypt will step into the dohyo, competing across 36 bouts that promise a mix of raw power and centuries-old ceremony. Heading the line-up is Japan’s Ichi, a former Emperor’s Cup winner, the highest individual honour in professional sumo. He’ll be joined by compatriot Hiroki, one of the sport’s largest active competitors, along with Egypt’s Ramy El-Gazar, an internationally decorated champion, and Mongolia’s Mendee, a former World Junior Sumo Champion and International Sumo Champion. Several more seasoned wrestlers from Japan and Mongolia round out the roster, with four competitors, Ichi, Hiroki, Mendee and Zorig, previous All-Star Sumo tournament title-holders.
A Middle East First
Running since 2014, the All-Star Sumo series has travelled to cities around the world, but this marks its first stop in the Middle East and the largest sumo event ever staged in the region. For Abu Dhabi, already a global hub for major sporting fixtures, it’s another addition to a calendar that increasingly spans everything from combat sports to motorsport.
Tradition Takes Centre Stage
The night will offer far more than the bouts themselves. Expect the formal dohyō-iri ring-entering procession, foot-stamping, salt-throwing and other pre-match rituals that embody sumo’s deep traditions of discipline, purification and respect. Organisers say the event will be staged in partnership with USA Sumo to uphold international competition standards while preserving the sport’s cultural authenticity. Audiences can also expect live taiko drumming, food and beverage offerings, and sumo-themed souvenirs.
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Mohamad Yehya, General Manager of Space42 Arena, said sumo is rarely seen live outside Japan, and that watching it in person lets fans appreciate not just the athletes’ power but also the discipline and respect woven into every contest.
If You Go
Where: Space42 Arena, Al Raha, Abu Dhabi
When: Saturday, September 26
Cost: From AED85, available via Platinumlist
Cover Image Courtesy: All-Star Sumo Wrestling/Website
FAQs
How many wrestlers will compete?
Nine professional sumo wrestlers from Japan, Mongolia and Egypt will compete.
How many bouts will take place?
The competition will feature 36 bouts across the evening.
