With live sumo returning to the UK for the first time in over 30 years this October at the Royal Albert Hall, a documentary about the legendary sumo wrestler Wajima is being screened at Japan House London.
Wajima: The Golden Left is part of NHK World-Japan’s series Grand Sumo Legends. It tells the story of Wajima’s golden years in the 1970s, rising to the rank of yokozuna (the highest grade of champion).
Wajima earned the nickname ‘The Golden Left’ for his signature move in the ring: using his remarkably skillful left hand to throw his opponent underarm. Wajima used this move with great success in an era when underarm throws were otherwise considered predictable (compared to overarm throws). Before Wajima’s rise, it had been widely believed that a sumo wrestler relying on an underarm throw could never go on to become a yokozuna.
The documentary features analysis of his famous throw by two retired sumo wrestlers: Otowayama Oyakata (formerly Yokozuna Kakuryū) and former Sekiwake Toyonoshima.
The screenings are in Japanese with English subtitles. Duration: approx. 49 mins
*Please note that filming and / or photography may take place at this event. Photos and footage of the event may then be used to promote Japan House London, helping more people to discover what we offer. If you have any concerns, please contact us online or contact a member of the team on site.
