Sumo Wrestling in New York: Local Competitors Take Center Stage at World Championship

The world of sumo wrestling, often seen as a niche sport, is gaining traction in New York City. This month, Bronx’s Josh Ortiz and Brooklyn’s Kofi Miller are set to showcase their skills at the World Championship Sumo, taking place on January 30 in White Plains, marking the event’s first appearance in the Westchester County area.

Rising Stars in Sumo Wrestling

Meet the Competitors

• Josh Ortiz, 39, hails from the Bronx and weighs 275 pounds.
• Kofi Miller, a 26-year-old from Bed-Stuy, tips the scales at 342 pounds.

Both wrestlers are eager to compete among more than a dozen heavyweight athletes at this prestigious event.

A Newfound Passion

Ortiz and Miller have discovered a new love for the sport, not just in their competitive endeavors but also in their personal lives. Both wrestlers found that their careers in sumo have positively affected their dating experiences:

• Ortiz: “Lately it’s been pretty positive! It’s always wide-eyed shock like, ‘What? You’re really doing that?’”
• Miller: “If she was already interested because I’m a big guy, then I show her I’m a really big guy! She knows I can handle myself.”

The Growing Popularity of Sumo

The International Sumo League reports that interest in sumo is on the rise. About 60% of tickets for the championship event have been sold to families, and the remaining shares are attracting female audiences. This surge in popularity is drawing attention and admiration for Ortiz and Miller, who even made an appearance on Saturday Night Live recently.

How They Got Started

• Kofi Miller stumbled upon the sport while working as a security guard. A flyer from a sumo club piqued his interest, leading him to try out the sport.
• Josh Ortiz, already a gym enthusiast, became curious about sumo while observing matches during the COVID-19 pandemic. He was drawn to the sport’s rituals and athleticism.

The Beauty of Sumo Wrestling

Both Ortiz and Miller describe sumo as a deeply technical and spiritually grounded sport. Ortiz elaborates:

“Everything has a purpose in the ring and everything has a purpose in our rituals.”

They challenge the stereotype that sumo wrestling is just about large men in mawashi (loincloths). Instead, they highlight the sport’s rich traditions and intricate techniques.

Upcoming Championship Details

The World Championship Sumo not only features local talent but also gathers competitors from around the globe, including athletes from countries like the Republic of Georgia and Samoa. The event will take place at the Westchester County Center, aiming to attract spectators interested in both competing and watching sumo wrestling.

Key Event Information:

• Date: January 30
• Location: Westchester County Center, White Plains, NY
• Competitors: Over a dozen heavyweight athletes

Conclusion

Sumo wrestling in New York is not just a curiosity but a burgeoning sport that showcases local talent like Josh Ortiz and Kofi Miller. Their stories reflect a blend of personal growth, cultural exploration, and competitive spirit, making the upcoming championship an event not to be missed.

For further information on sumo wrestling, check out the International Sumo Federation and discover how this ancient sport is making a modern resurgence in urban landscapes.