勝負
Victory Conditions
A wrestler wins by forcing his opponent out of the ring or making any part of his opponent's body other than the soles of his feet touch the ground.
Rules & Techniques
The strict codex of the dohyo.
The primary objective of a Sumo match is to force the opponent out of the ring or cause them to touch the ground with any part of their body above the soles of their feet.While the rules are deceptively simple, victory requires mastery of 82 recognized techniques (Kimarite) and immense physical discipline.
The bout begins at the Tachiai, the initial charge. Unlike other wrestling sports, there is no "ready, go" signal from a referee. Ideally, the wrestlers match their breathing and charge at the exact same moment of mutual consent.
立ち合い
Tachiai
The initial charge at the start of the bout. Both wrestlers must touch both fists to the ground simultaneously to start. Synchronization of breath is key.
禁じ手
Kinjite
Forbidden moves. Includes striking with a closed fist, hair pulling, eye gouging, or kicking the chest/stomach.