Sumo legend Kaloyan Mahlyanov sent a strong message to Bulgarian competitors and revealed important news for the development of the sport in our country – some of the native sumo wrestlers will get a chance to train with him in Japan. The initiative is being implemented jointly with the Bulgarian Sumo Federation and will provide a unique opportunity for international talent development.
The first European to win the Emperor's Cup greeted the participants in the state championship through a special video message: “Hello! Greetings from Japan to everyone in Bulgaria who loves sumo. I am glad to see the ambition for the championship to reach a world level. Sport changes lives and makes dreams come true. For even greater motivation – some of you will have the opportunity to train in Japan. Good luck to the dohi!“
Meanwhile, the state sumo championship has started in Sofia amid serious interest. A total of 565 competitors are participating in the competition, and the matches will be held on April 25 and 26 at the Tenta Events hall, located next to the “Academic“ stadium in the “Geo Milev“ neighborhood.
After more than a decade of hiatus, the attractive “Open“ category is returning to the program, in which there are no weight restrictions and competitors from all divisions compete. An authentic clay dohi has also been built for the championship, which contributes to an experience even closer to tradition.