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In a fascinating display of athleticism and strength, bodybuilding sensation Mike Thurston, recently, stepped into the wrestling ring. However, he did not just fight with just anyone.

Thurston fought with a formidable opponent, a 379-pound sumo wrestler. The matchup happened in Osaka, Japan, showcasing an intriguing blend of the two distinct disciplines. The bodybuilder took to his YouTube channel, shed light on his preps, and showcased the fight as well.

According to Thurston, during his Japan visit, he saw a live sumo wrestling event, that lit a spark in him. “Ever since I [saw] the sumo wrestling live in Osaka, [I’ve been] fascinated by the preparation, training, those [who go] through, and I wanted to experience it for myself,” admitted Thurston. As the video progresses, one can see him preparing for the fight.

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In the ring, the bodybuilder faced off against the sumo wrestler, engaging in a battle of strength, technique, and willpower. Despite the bodybuilder’s astonishing physique, the sumo wrestler’s years of experience and mastery of sumo techniques posed a remarkable challenge.

The match was a spectacle to behold, with both competitors showcasing their respective skills and strategies. While the bodybuilder relied on raw strength and athleticism, the sumo wrestler utilized a combination of leverage, timing, and technique to gain the upper hand.

However, the outcome of the match was not as important as the experience itself. Both competitors demonstrated respect and sportsmanship throughout the bout, embodying the spirit of competition and camaraderie. Even during the prep, Thurston talked to Sumo wrestlers, opening up a window into their training and diet methods.

The discipline and dedication required to become a Sumo Wrestler

The wrestler revealed that sumo wrestling is deeply rooted in Japanese tradition and requires years of rigorous training. To become one, you need to start as early as 15 years old. Sumo wrestlers adhere to strict diets, consuming 10,000 calories daily, mainly chankonabe, a hearty stew filled with meat, fish, and vegetables.

The physical demands of sumo wrestling are immense, with wrestlers enduring intense training sessions lasting up to five hours each day. In addition to physical conditioning, sumo wrestlers must master various techniques and strategies to outmaneuver their opponents in the ring. Training for sumo wrestling involves a combination of strength exercises, flexibility drills, and balance training.

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Techniques such as suriashi (sliding footwork) and shiko (leg stomps) are essential for developing the agility and stability required in the ring. For the bodybuilder, stepping into the world of sumo wrestling meant embracing new challenges. Unlike bodybuilding, where competitors strive for muscular symmetry and definition, sumo wrestlers prioritize size, strength, and balance.

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As the bodybuilder reflects on his journey into sumo wrestling, he seems to have gained a newfound appreciation for the discipline, dedication, and tradition that define this ancient sport. What do you think about Thurston’s attempt at trying out Sumo wrestling? Let us know in the comments.