Sumo Showdown: Plus-sized pugilists bringing the Japanese pain to Bangkok

It’s not often one gets to see sumo wrestlers battle it out in the ring — less so in Bangkok. Billed as the first traditional sumo wrestling match in Thailand, an event this week will mix culture and big-boy martial prowess to celebrate 136 years of diplomatic ties with Japan. 

Wrestlers from Japan’s Sumo Experience will square off tomorrow through Sunday, including top-ranked athletes of komusubi and makushita rank putting on a showing of Japan’s iconic sport. 

Also part of the floridly titled Siam Paragon the Wondrous Japan Heritage will be Japanese fan and Yosakoi dances, free origami workshops, snacks, and Thai artists from SalaArte creating gashapon toys and comics. 

For the sumo, there will be two shows per day from 2pm to 5pm. The event will also feature traditional taiko drum and dance performances. 

Walk-in visitors are welcome, but there…