Inside the violent and lethal world of 'Sanctuary': The cover-up behind Sumo wrestling's fatal secret
TOKYO, JAPAN: Sumo wrestling, a traditional Japanese sport with a history spanning over 1,500 years, has been brought back to global attention through Netflix drama 'Sanctuary'. The show has highlighted the dark and violent side of the sport, which is often seen as a religious ceremony and sanctuary.
The Japan Sumo Association's attempts to end abusive practices, hazing, and violence in sumo wrestling have been unsuccessful, with complaints often concealed. This has created a culture of silence, making it hard for outsiders to comprehend the situation.
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The Dark Side of Sumo Wrestling
Sumo wrestling may appear to be a cultural and traditional sport, but it has a dark side that is often hidden from public view. The recent Netflix drama 'Sanctuary' has exposed the violent and dangerous world of professional sumo, where young men aspire for money, women, fame, and power.
The drama has shed light on the abusive practices, hazing, and violence that often occur in sumo stables, leading to physical and mental harm, and sometimes death.
The Reality of Sumo Training
While sumo wrestling may seem like a sport of brute strength and power, it also requires rigorous training and discipline. The grueling training regime, known as keiko, involves hours of tough training to develop bodies that can win bouts. Violence is commonplace in sumo wrestling, from light knocks on the head to people getting beaten with shoes or hangers.
Many young men aspire to be sumo wrestlers from a young age, but the reality of the sport is often harsh and violent. There is also a fear of speaking out, as it could result in jeopardizing their career.
The Culture of Silence
The lack of transparency and open discussion regarding sumo wrestling creates a barrier for the public to gain insight into the events that occur behind the scenes.The Sumo Association holds a tight grip over access to wrestlers and competitions, exerting significant control over the Japanese media's coverage and reporting of sumo wrestling.
Access to and reporting on the Sumo Association is typically restricted to journalists who are members of an exclusive club regulated in part by the organization itself. This gatekeeping creates a significant obstacle for obtaining an accurate understanding of the events that occur behind closed doors.
Hope for Change
Despite the Sumo Association's slow pace in changing its ways, there is still hope that the situation can be improved. Public scrutiny, including the one generated by 'Sanctuary', may help drive change and end the culture of silence surrounding the sport. The Sumo Association must take a more active role in addressing the violent and abusive practices that occur within the sport. Only then can the sport be truly regarded as a religious ceremony and sanctuary, with a history that can be celebrated and respected.