Sumo wrestling clubs expand rapidly across the UK
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Oct 20, 2026, 5:47 AM
Last updated Oct 20, 2026

Sumo wrestling is seeing a surge in popularity in the UK, with the number of clubs rising from one to 13 in two years. Joe Andrews, founder of a club in Glastonbury, attributes this growth to social media, which has altered perceptions of sumo as an inclusive sport. Amateur competitions feature four weight categories and have attracted a diverse range of participants, including more women. Last October, London's Royal Albert Hall showcased a Grand Sumo Tournament, highlighting increasing interest. Training sessions at these clubs offer individuals a chance to develop skills in an accessible format, with bouts lasting between five to 15 seconds, making them suitable for various fitness levels.
- •Number of sumo clubs in England increased from one to 13 in two years.
- •Joe Andrews founded the first sumo club in south-west England.
- •Social media is key to changing perceptions of sumo wrestling.
- •Royal Albert Hall hosted a Grand Sumo Tournament in October 2025.
- •Amateur sumo includes four weight categories for diverse participants.
- 5:47 AMYahoo Sports — Boom in 'massively misunderstood' sumo wrestling
"Club founder Joe Andrews wants to show that people of all shapes and sizes can compete.
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