Too Much Lore: Sumo 2, Fatter and Sassier
From No Plot, Only Lore by Josh Varty and Kristoffer Hansen
February 28, 2026 · 41 min · Season 1 · Episode 84
About this episode
This episode explores the evolution of Sumo from the Meiji era to the present, focusing on the Yokozuna rank and the influence of international wrestlers.
We’re back with part two of our deep dive into Sumo history! This episode covers the transformation of the sport from the Meiji era to today. We discuss the formalization of the Yokozuna rank, the impact of international wrestlers on Japanese tradition, and the fascinating, messy politics of the JSA. Don’t miss this look at the world’s most intense, high-speed game of chess.
People in this episode
Hosts: Josh Varty, Kristoffer Hansen
Topics covered
- Sumo history
- Yokozuna rank
- international wrestlers
- Japanese tradition
- JSA politics
Keywords
- Sumo
- Yokozuna
- Meiji era
- Japanese tradition
- JSA
- wrestling politics
- international wrestlers
Mentioned in this episode
Organizations: JSA
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