Unreported World: Secrets of Sumo Wrestling (Channel 4 Friday 4 November 2022)

Reporter Sahar Zand is in Japan investigating the more sinister aspects of sumo wrestling, such as health problems, bullying allegations, and concerns about head injuries. Zand centres on a young man who has spent the majority of his life risking everything to become the best at an antiquated sport. A centuries-old custom with Shinto religious roots is sumo wrestling.

Its best wrestlers are revered as gods. Kyuta Kumagai, a rising star in the sport who trains six days a week in the hopes of getting a spot in a “sumo stable,” is 12 years old and aspires to be a grand champion. The stables where professional sumos live, work, and train must first recruit any aspiring wrestlers. While Zand meets former wrestlers who describe life in a stable as one of servitude, Kyuta admits, “I don’t know anything about it.” Life inside a stable is, however, shrouded in secrecy.

The sport is generating growing health concerns. Since there are no weight categories in sumo, being overweight has both practical benefits and additional risks. Sumo wrestlers pass away between 15 and 20 years sooner than the typical Japanese man. Another issue with headbutting is the physical harm it causes. Zand meets the friends of wrestler Hibikiryu, 28, who passed away last year after suffering a head injury while competing. Hibikiryu was 28 years old.

For failing to safeguard its wrestlers against concussions and other degenerative brain conditions, Sumo has come under fire. Also encountered by Zand are former wrestlers who trained by repeatedly headbutting a wooden pole.

Prod/Dir: Katie Arnold; Series Prod: Andy Lee; Exec Prod: Ed Fraser; Prod Co: Channel 4 News

Airdate: Friday 4 November 2022 at 7.30pm on Channel 4.

Season 43 Episode 2