U.S. Sumo Champ Talks The Sport's Rise In America

Sumo On The Rise In The US

For many in America, sumo wrestling only exists as a fun excuse for kids to horse around in the living room. For Byambajav Ulambayar, it is his life's work.

Ulambayar, born in Mongolia, came to the United States after making a name for himself competing in Japan. He has won the last eight heavyweight titles at the U.S. Sumo Open, held in Los Angeles each year. Aside from all the winning, Ulambayar enjoys helping the sport grow here, too.

"I'm really happy right now, teaching sumo and competing in the world," Ulambayar said.

The sport is gaining traction, too. More than 60 wrestlers competed in the 2014 event, making the U.S. Sumo Open the largest amateur sumo competition outside of Japan.

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