Abu Dhabi Hosts UAE’s First International Sumo Competition

Abu Dhabi is set to host the UAE’s first international professional sumo competition on September 26, bringing elite wrestlers from Japan, Mongolia, and Egypt for a 36‑bout showdown at Space42 Arena. The event, organized by the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi in partnership with USA S…

By Felo News Desk · Published Sat, 26 Sep 2026 05:08:21 GMT

On Saturday, September 26, Abu Dhabi will host the United Arab Emirates’ first international professional sumo competition. The all‑star event, staged at the Space42 Arena, will feature 36 bouts between nine elite wrestlers from Japan, Mongolia and Egypt, marking a historic moment for the sport in the Gulf region.

What’s on the Lineup?

The roster includes Japan’s most decorated competitor, Ichi, who spent a decade in the country’s professional ranks, reaching the sekiwake rank and winning the Emperor’s Cup. Japan’s Hiroki, the heaviest participant at 250 kg, brings 12 years of experience in the top division. Fumiya, the shortest wrestler at 170 cm, relies on a low centre of gravity to counter taller opponents. Mongolia’s Mendee, a World Sumo Champion and US Sumo Open champion, joins compatriot Tora, who has 825 career matches – the most in the field. Zorig, also from Mongolia, is the lightest at 140 kg, while Jaagii, a two‑time World Sumo Championships silver medallist, rounds out the Japanese side. The sole Arab participant is Egypt’s Ramy El‑Gazar, a 10‑time national champion and US Sumo Open winner who also works as a professional chef.

Each athlete weighs between 140 kg and 250 kg, and together they bring hundreds of professional bouts of experience to the ring. The competition will be a single‑day showcase, with every match decided in a matter of seconds, offering spectators a front‑row view of the speed, power and technique that define sumo.

Why Abu Dhabi?

The Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi has long sought to diversify the emirate’s sporting calendar and to introduce world‑class events to local audiences. By partnering with USA Sumo, the organizers aim to maintain professional standards while preserving sumo’s rich traditions. According to Andrew Freund, Director of All‑Star Sumo and Founder of USA Sumo, “Bringing All‑Star Sumo to Abu Dhabi is an exciting opportunity to introduce the sport to a new audience and continue its growth internationally.”

Freund added that sumo’s blend of tradition, athleticism and spectacle could forge lasting connections with fans in the UAE and across the region. The event is already sold out, underscoring the growing curiosity about this ancient Japanese sport among Middle Eastern spectators.

What to Expect on Saturday

Attendees will witness not only the physical contest but also the ceremonial aspects of sumo. A formal ring‑entering procession, traditional pre‑bout rituals and the distinct chants that accompany each wrestler will provide an immersive cultural experience. The competition will showcase a variety of techniques – pushing, pulling, sidestepping and grappling – as wrestlers read each other’s movements in the ring.

Ramy El‑Gazar emphasized the significance of representing Egypt and the Arab world, stating that “every time I step into the sumo ring, I feel that I am carrying more than my own name. I am carrying the Egyptian flag and representing millions of people across the Arab world.” He also expressed hope that the event will inspire a new generation of Arab athletes to take up sumo.

Looking Ahead

While the competition is a one‑day event, its impact could extend far beyond Saturday. The organizers hope that the successful staging of this tournament will open doors for future sumo competitions in the Middle East, fostering a growing interest in the sport and encouraging local talent to pursue sumo professionally. Whether the event will spark a new wave of sumo enthusiasts in the region remains to be seen, but the enthusiasm of the participants and the already sold‑out crowd suggest a promising future.

In summary, Abu Dhabi’s hosting of the UAE’s first international professional sumo competition marks a milestone for the sport in the Gulf. With elite wrestlers from three continents, a blend of tradition and athleticism, and a sold‑out audience, the event is poised to leave a lasting impression on both fans and participants alike.

Key facts

UAE’s first international professional sumo competition takes place in Abu Dhabi on Sept. 26
Nine elite wrestlers from Japan, Mongolia and Egypt compete in 36 bouts
The event is organized by the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi and USA Sumo
Sold‑out crowd indicates strong local interest in sumo
The competition blends traditional rituals with high‑level athletic performance
The event may pave the way for future sumo tournaments in the Middle East

Why it matters

This event introduces a globally respected sport to the UAE, broadening the cultural and athletic landscape of the region and potentially inspiring local athletes to explore sumo.

Frequently asked questions

When and where is the competition taking place?

The competition is scheduled for Saturday, September 26, at the Space42 Arena in Abu Dhabi.

Which wrestlers will participate?

The lineup includes nine wrestlers: Japan’s Ichi, Hiroki, Fumiya, and Waka; Mongolia’s Mendee, Tora, Zorig, and Jaagii; and Egypt’s Ramy El‑Gazar.

How many bouts will be contested?

A total of 36 bouts will be held during the single‑day event.

Is the event open to the public?

Yes, the event is sold out and open to the public, offering a front‑row view of sumo’s spectacle.

What is the significance of this event for the UAE?

It marks the first international professional sumo competition in the UAE, expanding the country’s sporting offerings and potentially inspiring local athletes.