World News for Students of English

23-09-2025 15:00

The September Grand Sumo Tournament in Japan is attracting global attention, and the sport is even gaining ground in New York.

In Midtown Manhattan, the New York Sumo Club has turned a martial arts gym into a place for sumo training. Founded three years ago by Oscar Dolan, the club initially started with only two people, but now, it has proper mats from Japan and a growing membership. Oscar, inspired by his studies of Japanese culture, wanted to create a sumo community in New York where anyone, regardless of age or gender, can join. Members highlight both tradition and individuality. They wear mawashi, the colorful belts wrestlers fight in, which they dye themselves to express personality.

The club recently reached a milestone by hosting the Empire Cup in Brooklyn, drawing around 60 wrestlers and a large crowd. Members often promote the sport on the streets, hoping to expand its fan base. The founder’s goal is not just competition but building an inclusive community that embodies the spirit of sumo.

Difficult words: gain ground (to become more successful, popular, or accepted), fan base (the group of people who like and support someone or something), inclusive (open to everyone).

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