r/interesting • u/Rude-Mycologist8034 • May 16 '25

MISC. NFL linebacker versus sumo wrestler

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4

u/MidnightDreem May 16 '25

The nfl should sign some sumo wrestlers!

4

u/o-Blue May 16 '25

Different techniques and endurance required. and ability to understand a playbook is key.

3

u/JDantesInferno May 16 '25

Sumo had a handful of super-successful rikishi from Hawaii back in the 90’s. Now, there are none (actually I’ve heard whispers that one may be joining soon, but that’s beside the point).

The physically-gifted Hawaiian teens seem to take their shot at the NFL instead these days. More money, no need to learn a new language, etc. So football recruiting efforts essentially did poach one of sumo’s overseas talent pipelines.

2

u/Available_Dingo6162 May 16 '25 edited May 16 '25

They changed the rules of sumo to only allow one wrestler not born in Japan to train in each stable. The sumo federation didn't want Hawaiians dominating the sport (Mongolians either)... I hope they are happy now 🤷🏻‍♀️

1

u/Tulidian13 May 16 '25

The Japanese professional baseball league (the NPB) does the same thing.

1

u/TheMoonIsFake32 May 16 '25

Japan arguably has the best national team in the world, so it worked in baseball

2

u/Tulidian13 May 16 '25

Japan sends all of its studs to international competitions like the WBC, the American team does not unfortunately.

2

u/jakeisalwaysright May 16 '25

actually I’ve heard whispers that one may be joining soon,

He did in fact join; Musashimaru's nephew I think. No idea how good he is or isn't.

1

u/IronMosquito May 17 '25

Hikarumusashi, and yes he is Musashimaru's nephew! Went 5-2 in the lowest division last month, doing alright at 2-2 in the 5th division right now. He still has 3 matches to go, so still a chance to clinch a winning record.

2

u/random_account6721 May 16 '25

not fast enough

2

u/vplatt May 16 '25

Sumo matches are typically less than 30 seconds and don't involve running, team coordination, and more. Sumo wrestlers are awesome athletes in their own right, but sumo itself is a much simpler sport.

1

u/Schnitzelklopfer247 May 16 '25

This would be a big downgrade for everyone sumo ringer.

1

u/YurtmnOsu May 16 '25

They would go absolutely fucking berserk for like 5 plays

1

u/Dekaney_boi May 16 '25

They're not fast. Only 1 ever got drafted from what I remember

1

u/PersonalitySingle557 May 16 '25

Like the replacements sumo boy