18th Annual Texas Classic Sumo Tournament
VIEW EVENT DETAILSPresented in partnership with Shōgeki Sumo Dojo
Schedule
Saturday, December 7, 2024
1–5 p.m. Tournament
5–6 p.m. Meet-and-Greet
Join us for an exciting open-weight sumo tournament where the action knows no bounds — lightweights will face heavyweights just like the professionals in Japan!
The tournament is co-hosted with Houston’s Shōgeki Sumo Dojo, who have dazzled attendees at festivals and cultural events across North America, bringing a slice of Japanese tradition coupled with competitive sumo action. Wrestlers will come from sumo clubs across Texas and will include a women’s division, with former professional sumo wrestler Koomah of Kise Beya in Japan joining as the tournament’s emcee. Adding to the excitement, the Houston Kendama Dojo will perform a thrilling half-time show, displaying the skill and artistry of this traditional Japanese toy sport.
Prepare for high-energy performances that promise to awe and educate as you witness the world of sumo up close and experience the excitement of competitive matches featuring some of the best athletes in the sport. Each ticket will include two complimentary drinks (with nonalcoholic options) courtesy of sponsor Asahi Beer, plus access to vendors offering gifts and treats from Japan. Following the competition, guests will also have the opportunity to meet the wrestlers while enjoying drinks and sumo noodles.
Don’t miss out on this unique blend of education, athleticism, and tradition!
About Shōgeki Sumo Dojo
Shōgeki Sumo Dojo, founded in 2021 by Nicholas Ton, Paul Gutierrez, and Jacob De Castro, is dedicated to promoting and preserving the traditional art and culture of Sumo wrestling. Operating as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, the dojo aims to educate and entertain by breaking stereotypes often propagated by Western media and providing a genuine understanding of Sumo's rich heritage. Shōgeki Sumo Dojo conducts regular Keiko (practice) sessions, sells authentic Japanese food, hosts social events for our members, hosts monthly demonstrations to showcase Sumo's historical and cultural significance, and offers interactive experiences to the public. Additionally, the dojo supports aspiring Sumo wrestlers by providing resources to enhance their skills and opportunities to join the professional Sumo circuit in Japan, thereby contributing to the sport’s global recognition and growth.
Performing Arts and Culture programs at Asia Society Texas are presented by Syamal and Susmita Poddar. Major support comes from Nancy C. Allen, Chinhui Juhn and Eddie Allen, The Brown Foundation, Inc., the City of Houston through Houston Arts Alliance, Houston Endowment Inc. Generous funding also provided by The Anchorage Foundation of Texas, The Cullen Trust for the Performing Arts, and Mitsubishi Corporation (Americas), National Endowment for the Arts, Texas Commission on the Arts, and the Wortham Foundation. Additional support is provided by The Clayton Fund, and the Friends of Asia Society, a dedicated group of individuals and organizations committed to bringing exceptional programming to Asia Society Texas.
Performing Arts and Culture Presenting Sponsors
Syamal and Susmita Poddar
Performing Arts and Culture Program Sponsors



Japan Series Sponsor

Program Sponsor

Program Partner

About Asia Society Texas
Asia Society Texas believes in the strength and beauty of diverse perspectives and people. As an educational institution, we advance cultural exchange by celebrating the vibrant diversity of Asia, inspiring empathy, and fostering a better understanding of our interconnected world. Spanning the fields of arts, business, culture, education, and policy, our programming is rooted in the educational and cultural development of our community — trusting in the power of art, dialogue, and ideas to combat bias and build a more inclusive society.
Event Details
1370 Southmore Blvd, Houston, TX 77004
713.496.9901