Sumo’s governing body – The Japan Sumo Association officially declared that since now on the sumo wrestlers aren’t allowed to grow bears, which some sumosans did in the past, because they believed the beard brings good luck.
At a meeting in Osaka, Japan Sumo Association elder Oguruma told the wrestlers’ association that besides the beards, long nails and tattoos won’t be tolerated either.
“The dohyo ring is sacred. I want (the people) to feel good when they watch the sport,” Oguruma told reporters after the meeting.
The JSA decided at a board meeting earlier this month to include the new rules on grooming and appearance to the wrestler’s codes. By making the rules explicit, the governing body hopes to ensure competitors will stay well-groomed.
