How do sumo wrestlers live? Do they have wives and girlfriends?

In Japan, a country deeply rooted in its "rice culture", traditional values and a strong work ethic have influenced various aspects of society, including the lifestyles of sumo wrestlers. Sumo, which originated as a form of Shinto ritual fighting, is steeped in tradition and strict discipline. Young teenagers who aspire to become professional sumo wrestlers typically enter the system around the age of 15 after completing their elementary and middle school education.

Upon entering the sumo world, these aspiring athletes join a "stable", which is essentially a sumo school where their lives are regulated by strict rules, traditions, and the guidance of the stable owner. Their daily routines revolve around intense training sessions, chores, and adhering to the customs of the heya. For lower division wrestlers, there is little time for personal pursuits as their focus is on training and contributing to the stable's upkeep.

Living conditions in the stable resemble a combination of barracks and a gym, with beginners taking on daily tasks such as preparing meals and cleaning. The strict schedule leaves little room for dating or personal time, as lower division wrestlers are not allowed to have mobile phones and are financially dependent on the stable for food and accommodation.

It is only the top division wrestlers who receive substantial earnings, fame, and sponsorship opportunities, allowing them the freedom to pursue relationships and marriage. Sumo wrestlers in the higher divisions are often viewed as celebrities in Japan, and typically have no shortage of admirers. While there is a stereotype that sumo wrestlers' wives are more about looks than intelligence, many of them come from entertainment backgrounds.

Foreign wrestlers in the top divisions are frequently married or in relationships, while Japanese wrestlers may face greater socialization challenges. Marriage among sumo wrestlers is sometimes seen as a formality due to their demanding schedules and physical exhaustion. Despite these challenges, many women are content with the financial security and status that comes with being a sumo wrestler's partner.

In conclusion, the lives of sumo wrestlers are structured around rigorous training, adherence to tradition, and a strong sense of discipline. While relationships and marriage are more prevalent among higher division wrestlers, the demanding nature of the sport often shapes the dynamics of their personal lives.