Japan was once saved from invasion when a so-called 'divine wind', or kamikaze, wrecked Kublai Khan's approaching Mongol fleet. Today it seems unable to resist a new Mongol invasion: of Japanese Sumo.
Thirty-four Mongolians compete regularly in Japan's national, indigenous sport. One of them, Asashoryu (right), has dominated the ring since being promoted in
2003 to the highest rank of Grand Champion. Currently the only wrestler at that level, he could soon be joined by a Bulgarian, the strongest of the
14 or so East Europeans who have also broken into the sport.
Since the 1960s there have always been a few foreigners in Sumo. Several Hawaiians made it to the top, an achievement that means adopting Japanese nationality, dress and behaviour; win or lose, a wrestler is not expected to show emotion. Except when he retires, |
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Japanese are no longer top of their national sport and resent the bad behaviour of the outsiders, says
christopher holmes |
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and his topknot is ceremonially cut
off: in Japan, a man's tears are admired at such moments.
But conservative Japanese are dismayed at the recent involvement of so many outsiders. More than a sport, Sumo, with its ancient history, is steeped in the rituals of the Shinto religion that the Japanese believe only they can fully comprehend.
Some fear for the future. No native grappler currently occupies the highest rank and locals can perform badly against foreign opposition. And foreigners do not always behave with the necessary decorum. The Mongolian Grand Champion has been disqualified for hair-pulling and has refused to take Japanese nationality.
The Sumo authorities, however, appreciate the excitement and ticket sales that foreign wrestlers generate. While Sumo will doubtless always remain quintessentially Japanese, the foreigners - who can win fame and wealth as well as fans - only enhance its exotic appeal. 
FIRST POSTED NOVEMBER 3, 2006
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