Sumo and Sushi event returns, brings sumo wrestling, Japanese traditions to The Fields Studios in Logan Square, Chicago

CHICAGO (WLS) — An event called Sumo and Sushi has returned to The Fields Studios in Logan Square. It’s unique mix of entertainment and education, as ABC7’s Ryan Chiaverini found out firsthand.

It is part of a five-city tour that kicked off in Chicago last weekend. It features real sumo wrestlers. All of them are former professionals from japan. It’s a rare chance to experience sumo up close, and see what makes this centuries-old tradition so special.

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It’s Japan’s oldest and most coveted spiritual and culturally significant sport. Now, American audiences are being introduced in a fun way.

Lifestyle event emcee Konishiki knows first hand. born in Hawaii, he was the first non-Japanese sumo champ.

Sumo wrestlers are revered in Japanese culture. The training is grueling and deeply ritualized.

They bulk up by consuming 5000 to 8000 calories per day. The object of sumo is to force the opponent outside the dough-yo ring, or to the mat. It’s not always the bigger guy that wins.

Chiaverini was invited to give it a try against 486-pound Osaka Jo.