It originated in ancient times as a performance to entertain the Shinto deities.

Many rituals with religious background, such as the 💱 symbolic purification of the ring with salt, are still followed today.

In line with tradition, only men practice the sport professionally 💱 in Japan.

The rules are simple: the wrestler who first exits the ring or touches the ground with any part of 💱 his body besides the soles of his feet loses.

Matches take place on an elevated ring (dohyo), which is made of 💱 clay and covered in a layer of sand.