Sumo to make UAE debut at All-Star event in Abu Dhabi | The National

Ichi, right, headlines the field in Abu Dhabi. AFPShow caption: Ichi, right, headlines the field in Abu Dhabi. AFPEmperor's Cup champion Ichi headlines nine-man field at Space42 Arena The NationalSeptember 03, 2026

Abu Dhabi will host the UAE's first international professional sumo competition on 26 September at the Space42 Arena.

Nine elite wrestlers from Japan, Mongolia and Egypt will compete across 36 bouts at the All-Star Sumo Competition.

The event features world champions and Emperor's Cup holders, including Japan's Ichi and Hiroki, and Mongolia's junior world champion Mendee.

Spectators will witness traditional ring-entering processions and pre-bout rituals rooted in sumo's 1,500-year history.