Sumo and Sushi combines wrestling, good eats in San Diego debut

Sumo and Sushi makes its San Diego debut at the Del Mar Fairgrounds Friday. (Photo by Aubrie LeGault)

It’s up to you whether the delicacy or the sport takes precedence when Sumo and Sushi comes to San Diego for the first time beginning Friday.

The event will be held at the Wyland Center at the Del Mar Fairgrounds for two weekends, this Friday through Sunday and from Feb. 27th to March 1st.

San Diegans will have the opportunity to enjoy freshly made sushi from local chefs while watching professional sumo wrestlers. They are known as rikishi, which translated into English means “powerful warrior” or “strong man.”

Two large men in thongs grapple with arms around each others backs in a wrestling match — Sumo and Sushi will feature at least a dozen wrestling matches during each show in Del Mar. (Photo by Aubrie LeGault)

Each show will entail a full cultural introduction to the sport of sumo, and there will be a live Q&A to interact with the wrestlers, not to mention over 12 exhibition matches. For those who want the ultimate package – you can get in the ring! – Sumo and Sushi provides a premium experience that makes you a part of the show.

The event is hosted by sumo legend Konishiki, the first non-Japanese-born wrestler to reach ōzeki, the second highest rank in sumo. Konishiki was born in Honolulu and was a three-time top division champion.

Since retiring, he has transitioned into the world of music, releasing multiple albums. His most notable is Kony Island, with hit songs such as “Ku’u Home O Kahalu’u” and “Jambalaya Medley.”

On his Instagram page, Konishiki posts everything from video tours backstage at Sumo and Sushi to offering his philosophy – shared with the Keep It Aloha podcast – on becoming a champion. “Hurting is part of getting where you want to go, because nobody is going to give you a ticket to get to the next level,” he said. “Everybody’s fighting for the same thing.”

As for the meal, each viewer in Del Mar can choose from a bento box featuring sushi from Ensui Sushi, or opt for the front row for a dish from Noir Sushi. If raw fish isn’t your cup of tea, you can purchase a viewing-only ticket. Vegetarian options are also available. Alcoholic drinks such as beer and sake can be ordered at the events bar.

To see the full menu or to purchase tickets, which start at $124, visit https://www.sumoandsushi.com/sandiego.

For those who want to bring family, shows on Sunday and March 1 are for all ages. All attendees must be 21 and over to attend the other showtimes

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