Sumo has over 1,500 years of history. Its roots are found in Shinto, the traditional religion of Japan, where ritual dances were performed to please the gods (kami). These rituals evolved into strength contests among warriors.

During the Edo period (1603–1868), sumo was organized as a professional sport and the first formal rules were established. Clay rings (dohyō) were built and professional tournaments were born, still held six times a year in Japan today.

The highest title is Yokozuna (grand champion), a lifetime distinction that only slightly more than 70 wrestlers have achieved in all of history. Sumo was declared the national sport of Japan and its rituals —such as throwing salt to purify the ring— are maintained to this day.