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Japanese speaker here. Your japanese is very good! Hard to believe you learned just for this trip/video. Very easy to understand, and your pronunciations are fairly good. Was your interpreter giving you the sentences you wanted to ask or were you forming your own sentences? Either way, legitimately impressive.
Martins got called Yujiro Hanma by a Japanese sumo wrestler. Pretty sure that’s gotta be the ultimate compliment one can achieve in Japan. Or anywhere else for that matter.
As an avid sumo fan, I'm really pleased with how you refrained from doing the typical "Westerner visits sumo stable" schtick of mysticizing and/or mocking sumo and portraying the rikishi as those exotic, almost unhuman creatures. I could tell while watching that you're genuinely interested in the sport and the culture surrounding it, and it was heartwarming to see you going the extra mile and speaking Japanese to the athletes. I also really like how in-depth you went with the information, and it was great to see Tatsunami-oyakata casually explaining things to you. I'd love for you to do another video like this someday, maybe in a different stable, or highlighting different aspects. New Western perspectives on and exposure for sumo are always greatly appreciated! 🙂
@@Songbirdstress True! Little correction though: Sumo is the name of the sport, not the term used for its practitioners. Calling a rikishi a sumo would be like calling Michael Jordan a basketball ;)
right? so much better than the WHATS UP GUYS TODAY IM TRAINING WITH THE BIGGEST SUMO WRESTLERS SO *SMAAASHHH* THAT LIKE BUTTON AND SUBSCRIBE FOR MORE!!!!!!!!!
Watching the sumo guys being impressed by the size of Martins. Imagine you take Brian Shaw, Tom Stoltman or Hafthor in there lol. This is such a good series. Amazing work Martins and Romark.
@@SPRNTRLCRYPTOBELIEF yes you are wrong. they be be able to withstand the lower ranks, but anybody in the salary rankings would fuck their shit up. and i dont know if youve noticed, but these (fat sumo guys) are more athletic than you could ever dream of being.
You are wrong. The best wrestlers would demolish any strongmen, with ease. They are so much faster, have much better leverage, much more skill, and an _incredible_ amount of higher aggression. Yes, Eddie Hall etc. could probably hold them off for a little bit, and obviously pick up heavier weight. But they wouldn't have any chance against the top 42 guys, let alone the Sanyaku (top 10). It would stop being fun to watch after awhile. @@SPRNTRLCRYPTOBELIEF
I watched this after watching a different "youutbe person tries SUMO" type video, and the difference is night and day. This is educational, respectful, professional, not all about the man in the video. Great stuff Martin, you really are the world's strongest weeb
Sumo...the most underappreciated sport in the world. Rikishi do training that would make most other athletes cry and give up, and they do it being the size of (and larger than, in some cases) NFL offensive linemen. It's insane to see a 400 lb man do a pirouette after exerting all his massive strength in slapping and grappling his oppoent only to arm lock him and be able to spin and hip toss him from the dohyo. Their athleticism is just astounding. Glad Martins showed this. Hope many others come to appreciate their prowess.
It would only be under appreciated due to the lack of awareness. Money and participation outside of Japan was very limited until recent years when it has started to build momentum in a hand full of countries. With MMA and Boxing having established world wide audiences to compete against it may be tough to establish an audience as well as pull of skill athletes that wow the international audiences the way the established Japanese federations do.
I@@CapraObscura and i think with that you clarified the source. Its about tradition, not about commercial. The motivation isnt money or fame ( from outstanders).
@@CapraObscura and thank god Sumo ain't going to change anytime soon and thank the Japanese for not caving to such demands as yours. You want UFC? Go watch UFC then.
This is the best sumo video I've ever seen. In the past, there were a lot of people who interviewed wrestlers just for laughs or lied about their interviews and used them as material for criticism. There are many people who are not good people, and there are not many places to show the rooms anymore. But the room that accepted this interview, and the foreigner who seriously faces the room.... It was really good to see the video as it was.
As an American amateur sumo wrestler who've seen a lot of strong men and power lifters do sumo. I'm very impressed with you. You stayed low, slid your feet, and didn't over commit. Well done!
@@MiauZi69Wrestling & American football and based on how he was describing how slow he was off the line, he was definitely a lineman. He definitely had a small head start experience wise.
Thank you for coming to Japan! In Japan, sumo wrestlers have long been a symbol of strength. It is said that babies grow up healthy when they are held by a sumo wrestler. I was also hugged by a sumo wrestler when I was a baby!😊😊
"It is said that babies grow up healthy when they are held by a sumo wrestler." That's awesome, I love learning stuff about other cultures. Been getting into sumo more lately, watched the past couple tournaments.
Theyre like human bears lol. Looking at them they look fat and lumbering.. until they strike. Ferocious strength and lightning speed and some of these guys are 500 600lbs.
For a Scandi who's not into "the worlds strongest" - is this guy the worlds strongest dude? I thought the Hooper dude(mustache and bald - quite small for the typical strongest man) from Usa won it this year?
Im a amature sumo Wrestling here in the Uk and after Christmas atarting prep for the European and the World championship try out and i absolutely loved this. Its such an underappreciated sport that would also be loved by the mainstream. Its fast easy to understand and exciting. Seeing this dose nothing but help the sport. Please do it again !! I would love love love to see you persue it and become a sumo channel. Please do it bro !!!
I would also be interested in seeing how these sumo wrestlers fare with weightlifting because they've never conventionally weightlifted. @@MartinsLicis
Helps that he's probably on mild dose of anabolic steroids while sumo wrestlers are probably natural. Steroids are a necessary part of being a strongman.
As someone who has been an avid sumo wrestling fan for many years, I cannot begin to tell you how impressed I am with your video. Your respect, your humility, your humor, and your likability all shine through. My wife and I both thoroughly enjoyed every moment. And I must say your abilities in a sport that is brand new to you is almost jaw-dropping. I have little doubt that you could be a superb rikishi if you so desired. I’m looking forward to watching more of your videos. Thank you!!!
Hello! Please watch "Madventures - Japan" it's a Finnish traveling show where the host is doing the sumo experience without pants and it's a fun show :)
I'm a sumo fan and this was one of the better foreigner-tries-sumo videos on the internet. I liked how he interacted with the wrestlers. They seem to really hit it off. A shame that the top wreslters weren't around. Probably on provincial tour. Hoshoryu is a technical wizard and my current favorite. Meisei, while not as technical, makes up for it with his energetic sumo. Great job and hope you'll return.
Akua was in the 2nd day training in the background I think (white mawashi to denote rank) and would have been very interested to see how he handled Martins given he's wrestled at Juryo and Makuuchi (briefly) but I suspect the possibility of injury to one or both combatents would have made that not worth the risk. Knowing how battered a rikishi is 90% of the time having some silly training accident ruin a basho for a salaried man just wouldn't fly.
I did not expect the story-telling and poetic type of narration. That was the fun part. Your performance was an amazing thing to see. Usually when westerners feature this, it's just for fun. You put in the work, and that is highly respectable. As an Asian, I appreciate that much. More power to you and your channel. 🔥
the foot in the sand shot on the title screen, the quite single shot walk into the building. so much cinematography brilliance in the first 3 minutes, i may as well stop now or this list will be too long. best channel on youtube edit: that rule of thirds shot in the outtro is my new wallpaper.
As someone who is obsessed with sumo wrestling and just watched the November Basho in it’s entirety, it’s wild to see other people that I watch interact with each other. Hoshoryu is a certified badass.
People don't understand just how strong Sumo's are. They are NOT big fat lazy people. They are stellar athletes that go through GROOLING TRAINING on a daily basis. It is an ancient sport one of the last remaining that dates back to the Samurai. I have so much respect for Sumo and what these giants are able to do in the Dohyō. Ganbatte to all of them.
Hey Martins. I just wanna say, there’s no TH-cam video or video in general that stops me in my tracks and has me hanging to watch as soon as I see the notification as yours man. You inspired me for years and got me through injuries and even motivated me to push bloody hard to get better. Just saying cheers man and thanks for being such an inspiration just being yourself. MARTINS!!
13:39 it's insane to see Martin get thrown around by someone he has such an obvious size, age, and muscular advantage over. Really goes to show how strong and skilled even these younger greenhorns are.
I wasn't expecting you to become an international ambassador of strength. Your videos are amazing. The way you are humble with everyone is pure class. Thank you. MARTINS!!!
Amazing video. Thank you for giving Japanese sumo culture the respect that it deserves. What an amazing experience. Video was professional, respectful, and entertaining. Exceptional.
As a fan of strongman and sumo this was a joy to watch!! I always though that sumo wrestlers and strongmen had a lot of similarities and i hoped you guys would do an episode just like this! Most of the sumo content in youtube it's in japanese and there are only a few english ones, so it was great to be able to see and understand the sumo culture from the inside. Also it was pretty cool to hear martins speak japanese 😄 thank you for the episode!
Considering that a top Strongman contender is this good at sumo, it could be pretty entertaining to see sumo yokozuna or ozeki getting into serious strength training and giving a shot at Strongman or powerlifting competitions😄
The way you and your team narrate, stylize, and edit your videos are some of the best I have seen on YT. The Japan videos have been amazing, from the history to the mundane everyday things. Thanks for making this content for everyone. It has been great to watch.
This was fun to watch. Your approach was tasteful, respectful, and from a place of honest curiosity/intrigue. Endearing to see the rikishi enjoying life their own way. Sumo is an awesome culture.
This really is one of the best videos I've ever seen. It is fascinating to see the comraderie between the sumo wrestlers in the stable, resepct for coaches/elders, and a connection/deep meaning to what they are training for and paying homage to. Additionally, the respect that you show for the sport, culture, etc. is apparent and I've now become a fan of yours and the sport. I'm looking to find a way to get involved in Sumo here in NYC.
I'm French, i just discover your channel and this vidéo is just WAOW it exudes humanity and kindness ! All of the Rikishi looks amazed about your power, and they look so happy to share their art and knowledge with you. Truly pure experience
Found you when I was randomly recommended your previous Japanese stone video. I have been waiting for this since you teased it. This video, much like your personal experiences in Japan, far exceeded my already lofty expectations. Twenty-six minutes flew by. I was sad that it ended in what felt like only five minutes. Fantastic work by you and your team. Huge gratitude to Beya stable for allowing you in…
Martins, Romark, and the whole team, have ABSOLUTELY been killing it this past year or so with content. It's just banger after banger. Every video is so well written and produced, it truly feels like something you'd watch on the History channel or Netflix. Keep it up you guys🙏 Seriously, this channel is so awesome!
This is by far my favorite episode of Strength Unknown thus far as outside of Strongman, Sumo is one of my favorite sports. To see Martins training and also show other people how incredible the sport and the lifestyle is here was just spectacular. Cheers, Martins.
Brilliant video! Just came here because I love sumo and I am so happy you treated the sport with respect ! I am amazed at your power and even more by how much you enjoy Japan. Many heartfelt thanks for uploading this and the episode on "Chikara-ishi". (subbed)
Thank you very much for introducing Japanese culture to so many non-Japanese people through English, as it is properly understood through a foreigner's eyes. I'm Japanese and have been watching sumo for a long time. This has been the case since the days of Yokozuna Chiyonofuji in the 80s and Yokozuna Takanohana in the 90s. I am very happy that you have come to practice with great respect for the tradition and culture of sumo. And I feel that you have gained a deeper understanding of sumo. Your surashi and shiko moves were very good, making you look like a real sumo wrestler.
I've been waiting for this video since it was announced. As a Sumo fan and a Strength Unknown fan, I already know it's gonna be great before I even start watching it! Let's go!
@@sgtjyf01 There are lots of names! They are also called Sumotori and Osumosan. Each of the three can all generically refer to a practitioner of sumo. There are also more specific names like Sekitori, for paid pros in Juryo (Div 2) and above. In my humble opinion, "sumos" is fine. For fun, I might start calling them Sumojin (相撲人)
@@casualjesoterik9192 Rikishi, sumotori and just plain old sumo wrestler are the most common, general terms. Sekitori, komusubi, ozeki, yokozuna, etc are the names of the various ranks. Calling them "sumos" is like calling a football player a football. Sumo is the sport. Rikishi, sumotori or wrestler is the athlete who does the sport. I don't get too hung up on semantics when it's people who have no prior knowledge of sumo, but I feel like it still needs to be said, ya know?
Man I just have to say I only stumbled across your videos but you have a massive new fan. You write so well and come across as respectful, considerate, kind and strong. Keep on lifting weights, hearts and minds.
I just discovered this channel yesterday, and man.. It makes me so damn happy when cultures share commonalities and celebrate it. The world needs more cultural exchanges like this, because it really is breaking barriers in the most wholesome way.
Amazing videography and easily my favorite series on TH-cam. It would be awesome to also see what the rikishi think of Martin's strength and how well it translates to sumo. Thanks for making this and these videos deserve millions of views
Great vid! I've been getting into sumo lately and it's been very cool to see an inside perspective on the back end of the tournament I just watched. As far as combat sports go, it really fascinated me how the simplicity and strictness of the rules lends itself to such flexibility in techniques. Stomp the demons down, and attack while moving forward!
I have the utmost respect for you guys pulling off such an incredible production with intensely high information value! this has been a bliss to watch and I am excited for what's still to come! this is just amazing!
A big Sumo fan here. You went full on in this experience, truly understood the way of living of a Rikishi! Also, pretty cool to see you ate the Tatsunami Beya which is training ground from the Ozeki Hoshoryu, the nephew of the great Mongolian Yokozuna Asashoryu!
martins looks like a natural in a mawashi! i'm glad he didn't half-ass it and whole-assed it instead. imo that's a sign of deep respect for sumo culture; even some amateur sumo competitors still wear tights under the mawashi.
This series really brings fitness content to new heights. I'm always so impressed with how thoughtful and grateful you are for your experiences. Thank you for this!
There's a depth to the content you provide Martins. It isn't just about the headline and the clicks with you. It's about immersion and learning about the world. Loved it when you came and visited Quebec w/ Caron
I've followed you through wsm for awhile and I've got to say as someone who just discovered your videos of strength unknown and your japan trip I'm really appreciative of your humble, sincere and extremely wholesome perspective. Your stuff evokes a lot of anthony bourdains travel shows and I mean that in the best way possible. I also feel a reminder of my past passion for strength and exercise and feel somewhat reinvigorated by your passion for strength in all its forms. Thank you for your passion and thanks for these lenses into strength that I never really would have gotten to appreciate before.
@@MartinsLicis Absolutely! I mean that honestly, because anyone who has it in them to become the World's Strongest Man, they would also have had it in them to reach the top of the sumo world if that was the path they chose instead. And with the way you're throwing some of these guys around, along with how you caught yourself during some techniques they used to try and throw you off, you look like a natural!
@@ericdietz1795 Well sure, and I wouldn't be shocked if there were politics at play that also extra-ensured that happened, but Martins is definitely a cut above.
I was NOT expecting this when starting the video. I was expecting the typical strongman youtube video. This really reminded me of Anthony Bourdain, and I don't say that lightly! This didn't feel like content just for content's sake, it felt like authentic storytelling, with depth of experience. I'm impressed, immediately liked and subscribed!
Martins adapts quickly to sumo due to his foundation in wrestling. Also, in sumo, it's crucial to lower the hips and place the center of gravity within, and this closely resembles the way the center of gravity is positioned during a barbell squat (more so than in a sumo deadlift) Therefore, facing lower-ranked opponents, Martins' belt grip and lifting techniques are quite formidable. (I honestly wished to see him face higher-ranked opponents, while I understand that professional sumo wrestlers who get paid to showcase matches can't just engage in sumo on TH-cam.) Anyway, this underscores how explosive power developed through weight training and a proper diet is beneficial in sumo. David mentions that Japan's strength training methodology is about 10 years behind the U.S., but in the conservative and tradition-bound sumo world, it might be more like 30 to 50 years behind. While there is increase of wrestlers and stablemasters who value sports science and nutrition lately, there still seem to be many leaders who believe strength required for sumo is primarily developed through practice matches.
I’m not a sumo fan nor a football fan. My attention span is short so its quite a surprise that I finished this more than 28 minute video. The story telling and cinemography as well as the respect thoughout the filming made me subscribe to this channel. Good work!
Props to you for not only respecting the culture, but also the language. Japan is one of my 2 homes, glad you enjoyed it! Thank you for being open and respecting.
I have been saying for years now that if Sumo, Strongman, and American football training practices were properly and carefully mixed and merged the competitor in any of those would be in a class by themselves within the first year and nearly mythological in ability by the end of five. It would be a breathtaking journey to witness.
Maaan....a sumo-docu from the view of a real strongman....cant tell you, how much I appreciate your time and effort, Martins....very, very well done....keep up the good work.I ll watch your other docu's now....cant wait...I would just loooove to see such a Sumo-event live....like when I was the first time in the Lumpinee-stadium myself (Muay-Thai, Bangkok)....the atmosphere and all....goosebumps.Similar english-difficulties, btw..and oc Karaoke...ALL Asians are Karaokeans, from Vietnam over Japan to Thailand and even the Philippines(my wife is Philippina, she and her friends do Karaoke aaa lot).....haha. Wow..it showed how much there depends on leg-strength (makes sense)....if even you, a dude with some of the strongest legs on that planet is sweating....
I've watched sumo my whole life. The sumotori are not used to getting visitors that can match their size. I bet they were really excited to see martins lol
Brilliant, absolutely brilliant. I loved that you learnt Japanese as well. Shows how much you respect the culture. Great work! Prosperous, healthy and happy 2024 to you and your team!
great writing, great storytelling and great respect that can be felt through the video. I'm just starting but this series is really a great point of entry into sumo .. and strongmen subculture. Really interesting and fascinating. Will share on the blog in the following times.
The entire composition of this video is incredible. It's so well done. The story and the personal interpretations of what's going on is just sick. Narration and pacing is absolutely perfect. Probably one of the best vids here on TH-cam. Respect. 👺
I can tell you studied a lot of Japanese before going over there. I'm sure the locals appreciated that! I think you'd integrate well if you chose to move there!
I wasn't expecting much from this video, but as a sumo fan I'm impressed at the respect shown and the commentary. You understood what sumo is all about and it showed. Amazing video, that's the kind of western attention sumo needs outside of japan.
I started watching Sumo in 2019 during the California lockdown. I am now hooked for life. I have not missed a Sumo tournament since. This by far is the toughest sport out there. Constant competition testing you, mentality and physically, it’s not like professional sports around the world. Yokozuna is the top rank, you can never lose your ranking till you retire. However everyone else has to win, if you lose in competition you lose your rank and salary. May God richly bless everyone 🇮🇱✝️🇺🇸!
I've been watching the futagoyama beya channel and have been following there channel for a while , this was super cool to watch from an English point of view , literally pro content I loved every second of it,
Amazing high quality content. You were super good at this. I think they weren’t impressed with your size alone but also the speed and agility. How did people react to your Japanese? I’ve heard mixed opinions that they really don’t like when foreigners speak it.
I’m so impressed with you and your willingness to give things you are new to ago. Your effort to learn the language and embrace the culture is a testament to your down to earth and humble nature. Became a huge fan watching this episode and the chikara ishii stone lifting episode!
Honestly, I cannot express the amount of respect and envy I have for you doing this. The excitement, passion, pressure, and respect you share by understanding and sharing this is perfect. There have been so many white washed videos of people attempting to delve into Sumo culture that annoy me to no end. This was perfect!
Hey Martins, I'm glad you approached this video with such humility and respect. To the point of learning the language!! Some people in the west view the sport as a kind of a freak show instead of a two thousand year old martial art with its associated and very committed life style. Excellent work.
This is amazing! Thank you so much for bringing us this footage, what a blessing to have this inside look at heya life. Huge respect for putting yourself through their rigorous training, you fit right in. Just awesome! That THROW at 23:54!!!!!! LETS GOO 💪💪💪💪💪💪
![[Sumo wrestlers morning routine] Real 4 hours from waking up to the end of practice](/img/n.gif)
Hey thanks for watching our Strength Unknown Series!
If you like what you see, pleasure support our channel by getting some Merch!
Visit barbellapparel.com for $50 off all jeans and up to 50% off on the site, all “Martins” merch will still be 20% off through the 10th!
Please one more Sumo video with some more advanced Sumos. Stay for 1-2 weeks. This is by far the best episode you ever produced.
Great show bro! You got a new subscriber. Add a Sumo shirt or sweater in your merch and I'd be the first one to buy it.
Would have been so fun if you had Shaw with you when you first went to the sumo as he's really big xD
Japanese speaker here. Your japanese is very good! Hard to believe you learned just for this trip/video. Very easy to understand, and your pronunciations are fairly good. Was your interpreter giving you the sentences you wanted to ask or were you forming your own sentences? Either way, legitimately impressive.
INFACT ALL WRESTILING ANDsumo and dance starts with ur feet AND LEGS. best of luck brother.
Martins got called Yujiro Hanma by a Japanese sumo wrestler. Pretty sure that’s gotta be the ultimate compliment one can achieve in Japan. Or anywhere else for that matter.
I was looking for this comment. I'm glad someone else noticed this. Truly the highest praise. Have my upvote and comment boost.
he kinds of actually was the closest we had to yujiro hanma back in 2019.
@@Majoranimefan123 What is the time stamp
@@StagnantMizu 4:24
@@HyperChara lol nice I though i heard it at 23:57 but not sure
As an avid sumo fan, I'm really pleased with how you refrained from doing the typical "Westerner visits sumo stable" schtick of mysticizing and/or mocking sumo and portraying the rikishi as those exotic, almost unhuman creatures. I could tell while watching that you're genuinely interested in the sport and the culture surrounding it, and it was heartwarming to see you going the extra mile and speaking Japanese to the athletes. I also really like how in-depth you went with the information, and it was great to see Tatsunami-oyakata casually explaining things to you. I'd love for you to do another video like this someday, maybe in a different stable, or highlighting different aspects. New Western perspectives on and exposure for sumo are always greatly appreciated! 🙂
Seconded!
He would definitely have talent as a Sumo, the door not taken.
@@Songbirdstress True! Little correction though: Sumo is the name of the sport, not the term used for its practitioners. Calling a rikishi a sumo would be like calling Michael Jordan a basketball ;)
@@TheNotoriousDUDE Sorry am influenced by my daily language. Sumo WRESTLER. Where I live, they would happily call Jordan a "basket" lol.
That wasn't Tatsunami-oyakata explaining things to him. Tatsunami-oyakata is former komusubi Asahiyutaka.
This series isn't just a "look at me" as some might think, it is a cultural learning experience. Great job and thank you Martins and Romark.
Thank you sir ❤
I haven't seen a single comment calling this self centered lol. Don't make up nonsense like that
We use to have shows like this on History and Discovery channel. Now it's Pawn Stars and such.
right? so much better than the WHATS UP GUYS TODAY IM TRAINING WITH THE BIGGEST SUMO WRESTLERS SO *SMAAASHHH* THAT LIKE BUTTON AND SUBSCRIBE FOR MORE!!!!!!!!!
Really does justice to Parts Unknown, almost feels like a homage really. Even the pacing of the narration sounds like Bourdain at times.
I absolutely love how respectful both sides were about trying to help with language. So much respect on both sides.
Watching the sumo guys being impressed by the size of Martins. Imagine you take Brian Shaw, Tom Stoltman or Hafthor in there lol. This is such a good series. Amazing work Martins and Romark.
exactly what i was thinking XD
@@SPRNTRLCRYPTOBELIEF yes you are wrong. they be be able to withstand the lower ranks, but anybody in the salary rankings would fuck their shit up. and i dont know if youve noticed, but these (fat sumo guys) are more athletic than you could ever dream of being.
You are wrong. The best wrestlers would demolish any strongmen, with ease. They are so much faster, have much better leverage, much more skill, and an _incredible_ amount of higher aggression. Yes, Eddie Hall etc. could probably hold them off for a little bit, and obviously pick up heavier weight. But they wouldn't have any chance against the top 42 guys, let alone the Sanyaku (top 10). It would stop being fun to watch after awhile. @@SPRNTRLCRYPTOBELIEF
@@raymond5097 Even wrestlers who are stable at Makushita will be skilled enough to take even on someone as strong as a world's strongest man winner.
@SPRNTRLCRYPTOBELIEF did you see Eddie halls vid where he did sumo and smoked the guy? I guess he was some champ.
I watched this after watching a different "youutbe person tries SUMO" type video, and the difference is night and day.
This is educational, respectful, professional, not all about the man in the video.
Great stuff Martin, you really are the world's strongest weeb
It’s okay you can say you came here after the Eddie Hall video. I promise he won’t hurt you 😂
Sumo...the most underappreciated sport in the world. Rikishi do training that would make most other athletes cry and give up, and they do it being the size of (and larger than, in some cases) NFL offensive linemen. It's insane to see a 400 lb man do a pirouette after exerting all his massive strength in slapping and grappling his oppoent only to arm lock him and be able to spin and hip toss him from the dohyo. Their athleticism is just astounding. Glad Martins showed this. Hope many others come to appreciate their prowess.
Yes, people should just google Ura and watch his Makuuchi (first division) fights with well anyone but a bulldozer.
He can really jump around!
easily the most underrated athletes on the planet people who don't watch sumo really have no clue what they are capable of.
It would only be under appreciated due to the lack of awareness. Money and participation outside of Japan was very limited until recent years when it has started to build momentum in a hand full of countries. With MMA and Boxing having established world wide audiences to compete against it may be tough to establish an audience as well as pull of skill athletes that wow the international audiences the way the established Japanese federations do.
I@@CapraObscura and i think with that you clarified the source. Its about tradition, not about commercial. The motivation isnt money or fame ( from outstanders).
@@CapraObscura and thank god Sumo ain't going to change anytime soon and thank the Japanese for not caving to such demands as yours. You want UFC? Go watch UFC then.
This is the best sumo video I've ever seen.
In the past, there were a lot of people who interviewed wrestlers just for laughs or lied about their interviews and used them as material for criticism.
There are many people who are not good people, and there are not many places to show the rooms anymore.
But the room that accepted this interview, and the foreigner who seriously faces the room....
It was really good to see the video as it was.
As an American amateur sumo wrestler who've seen a lot of strong men and power lifters do sumo. I'm very impressed with you. You stayed low, slid your feet, and didn't over commit. Well done!
He has wrestling experience. That makes quite a difference.
What's up Caleb? Al
@@MiauZi69Wrestling & American football and based on how he was describing how slow he was off the line, he was definitely a lineman. He definitely had a small head start experience wise.
Thank you for coming to Japan! In Japan, sumo wrestlers have long been a symbol of strength. It is said that babies grow up healthy when they are held by a sumo wrestler. I was also hugged by a sumo wrestler when I was a baby!😊😊
"It is said that babies grow up healthy when they are held by a sumo wrestler." That's awesome, I love learning stuff about other cultures. Been getting into sumo more lately, watched the past couple tournaments.
Hats off to Martins for training with them! Sumo wrestlers are serious athletes who deserve respect on what they do 🎉
Theyre like human bears lol. Looking at them they look fat and lumbering.. until they strike. Ferocious strength and lightning speed and some of these guys are 500 600lbs.
Straight arm slaps are legal and those monsters would brake regular peoples faces with those strikes.
For a Scandi who's not into "the worlds strongest" - is this guy the worlds strongest dude? I thought the Hooper dude(mustache and bald - quite small for the typical strongest man) from Usa won it this year?
@@UncleMatrixit says martins was 2019 wsm champion and he has won much more
Maybe the most serious, given that they live like monks in a monastery together for decades.
Im a amature sumo Wrestling here in the Uk and after Christmas atarting prep for the European and the World championship try out and i absolutely loved this. Its such an underappreciated sport that would also be loved by the mainstream. Its fast easy to understand and exciting. Seeing this dose nothing but help the sport. Please do it again !! I would love love love to see you persue it and become a sumo channel. Please do it bro !!!
日本より、あなたが怪我などせず活躍することを祈ってます。
This should be accessible at Netflix or Discovery or something else. It's pro content!
I know!! We’re working on it! In the meantime share with friends and family! 🫶
@@MartinsLicisOH, hell yeah! Please make it to Netflix. This is such a legendary show!
I would also be interested in seeing how these sumo wrestlers fare with weightlifting because they've never conventionally weightlifted. @@MartinsLicis
Totally agree. It’s the best series on ancient and modern cultural strength sport that has ever been done.
@@MartinsLicis who writes the narration? it's epic
相撲未経験でここまで稽古について行けるのが凄すぎるwストロングマン恐るべし…😮
日本語字幕が丁寧でとても見やすい動画でした！お疲れ様👍👍
レスリング経験者らしいよ。
Helps that he's probably on mild dose of anabolic steroids while sumo wrestlers are probably natural. Steroids are a necessary part of being a strongman.
As someone who has been an avid sumo wrestling fan for many years, I cannot begin to tell you how impressed I am with your video. Your respect, your humility, your humor, and your likability all shine through. My wife and I both thoroughly enjoyed every moment. And I must say your abilities in a sport that is brand new to you is almost jaw-dropping. I have little doubt that you could be a superb rikishi if you so desired. I’m looking forward to watching more of your videos. Thank you!!!
体験の外人さんがパンツ履かずにまわし締めてるの初めて見たかも
気合いが違う
さすがストロングマンのトップ選手ですわ
髪型も相まって凄く似合ってたよね、普通に力士かな？て思えたし。
Hello! Please watch "Madventures - Japan" it's a Finnish traveling show where the host is doing the sumo experience without pants and it's a fun show :)
I'm from the US, and I watch the Grand Sumo tournament on TH-cam. I love it! I would love to one day visit Japan, and attend an actual tournament.
@@bloodcum4071 there's a sumo anime it's pretty good
I'm a sumo fan and this was one of the better foreigner-tries-sumo videos on the internet. I liked how he interacted with the wrestlers. They seem to really hit it off. A shame that the top wreslters weren't around. Probably on provincial tour. Hoshoryu is a technical wizard and my current favorite. Meisei, while not as technical, makes up for it with his energetic sumo. Great job and hope you'll return.
Akua was in the 2nd day training in the background I think (white mawashi to denote rank) and would have been very interested to see how he handled Martins given he's wrestled at Juryo and Makuuchi (briefly) but I suspect the possibility of injury to one or both combatents would have made that not worth the risk. Knowing how battered a rikishi is 90% of the time having some silly training accident ruin a basho for a salaried man just wouldn't fly.
it was definitely one of those better "foreigner tries sumo" videos for sure...
Ura was in shot inside the first minute. That’s plenty for me!
I did not expect the story-telling and poetic type of narration. That was the fun part. Your performance was an amazing thing to see. Usually when westerners feature this, it's just for fun. You put in the work, and that is highly respectable. As an Asian, I appreciate that much. More power to you and your channel. 🔥
ChatGPT writing the script lol
I also use AI chat to translate text haha @@WCarr
the foot in the sand shot on the title screen, the quite single shot walk into the building. so much cinematography brilliance in the first 3 minutes, i may as well stop now or this list will be too long. best channel on youtube
edit: that rule of thirds shot in the outtro is my new wallpaper.
This is one of the best videos about sumo i've ever seen from a "westerner". Thank you for treating sumo with the respect it deserves.
四股も摺り足も綺麗でおまけに取り組みも豪快で。respect。
As someone who is obsessed with sumo wrestling and just watched the November Basho in it’s entirety, it’s wild to see other people that I watch interact with each other. Hoshoryu is a certified badass.
So, what did you think of The Stare-Down?
@@LauraJdogmomthat was quite something tbh
謙虚で誠実な人柄に感激しました🤩
I began watching Sumo years ago. I was and am super excited for this video. Keep up the great content!
相撲に対するリスペクトと深い理解が感じられて、とても素晴らしい動画だと思いました。
Big respect マーティン!
What an exclusive adventure this was! Rewatching our escapades makes me miss you guys. Come back soon! 😭
I hope Martins will one day move to japan, become fluent and vlog every day of his life. would be so cool hhahah
@@hracekk He's on the path to fluency for sure!
People don't understand just how strong Sumo's are. They are NOT big fat lazy people. They are stellar athletes that go through GROOLING TRAINING on a daily basis. It is an ancient sport one of the last remaining that dates back to the Samurai. I have so much respect for Sumo and what these giants are able to do in the Dohyō. Ganbatte to all of them.
thanks for your respect!
also, Sumos way older than samurai appeared ;)
Grueling
Hey Martins. I just wanna say, there’s no TH-cam video or video in general that stops me in my tracks and has me hanging to watch as soon as I see the notification as yours man. You inspired me for years and got me through injuries and even motivated me to push bloody hard to get better. Just saying cheers man and thanks for being such an inspiration just being yourself. MARTINS!!
13:39 it's insane to see Martin get thrown around by someone he has such an obvious size, age, and muscular advantage over. Really goes to show how strong and skilled even these younger greenhorns are.
I love how you're always approaching all the traditional strength sports with such respect. Best travel documentary show on the youtubes.
I appreciate that!
相撲というのは単なるスポーツではないことに気づいて頂けて非常にうれしいです。貴重な体験をされましたね✨
I wasn't expecting you to become an international ambassador of strength. Your videos are amazing. The way you are humble with everyone is pure class. Thank you. MARTINS!!!
Amazing video. Thank you for giving Japanese sumo culture the respect that it deserves. What an amazing experience. Video was professional, respectful, and entertaining. Exceptional.
Martins is just one of the coolest dudes. The Strength Unknown series is tops!
海外のアスリートが相撲に挑戦する動画は沢山ありますが、最も相撲へのリスペクトを感じる動画でした。
こうやってみると世界クラスのストロングマンに体格で劣らない日本人力士って凄いな…😂
相撲経験のない外国人アスリートとしては最強ですね。
ストロングマンはさすがに上半身だけでなく下半身も強い。
As a fan of strongman and sumo this was a joy to watch!! I always though that sumo wrestlers and strongmen had a lot of similarities and i hoped you guys would do an episode just like this!
Most of the sumo content in youtube it's in japanese and there are only a few english ones, so it was great to be able to see and understand the sumo culture from the inside.
Also it was pretty cool to hear martins speak japanese 😄 thank you for the episode!
Considering that a top Strongman contender is this good at sumo, it could be pretty entertaining to see sumo yokozuna or ozeki getting into serious strength training and giving a shot at Strongman or powerlifting competitions😄
The way you and your team narrate, stylize, and edit your videos are some of the best I have seen on YT. The Japan videos have been amazing, from the history to the mundane everyday things. Thanks for making this content for everyone. It has been great to watch.
This was fun to watch. Your approach was tasteful, respectful, and from a place of honest curiosity/intrigue. Endearing to see the rikishi enjoying life their own way. Sumo is an awesome culture.
They call our boi Yujiro Hanma!
This really is one of the best videos I've ever seen. It is fascinating to see the comraderie between the sumo wrestlers in the stable, resepct for coaches/elders, and a connection/deep meaning to what they are training for and paying homage to. Additionally, the respect that you show for the sport, culture, etc. is apparent and I've now become a fan of yours and the sport. I'm looking to find a way to get involved in Sumo here in NYC.
Martins speaking ability in these videos are spectacular, never boring, always hooked, and crystal clear delivery, top notch documentarian skills sir!
And the Japanese wasn’t half bad either.
I'm French, i just discover your channel and this vidéo is just WAOW it exudes humanity and kindness ! All of the Rikishi looks amazed about your power, and they look so happy to share their art and knowledge with you. Truly pure experience
Found you when I was randomly recommended your previous Japanese stone video. I have been waiting for this since you teased it. This video, much like your personal experiences in Japan, far exceeded my already lofty expectations. Twenty-six minutes flew by. I was sad that it ended in what felt like only five minutes. Fantastic work by you and your team. Huge gratitude to Beya stable for allowing you in…
Sumo is unique in all combat sports. So pure and so refined at the same time. As a spectator, I find it the most engaging.
Martins, Romark, and the whole team, have ABSOLUTELY been killing it this past year or so with content.
It's just banger after banger.
Every video is so well written and produced, it truly feels like something you'd watch on the History channel or Netflix.
Keep it up you guys🙏
Seriously, this channel is so awesome!
This is by far my favorite episode of Strength Unknown thus far as outside of Strongman, Sumo is one of my favorite sports. To see Martins training and also show other people how incredible the sport and the lifestyle is here was just spectacular.
Cheers, Martins.
Brilliant video!
Just came here because I love sumo and I am so happy you treated the sport with respect !
I am amazed at your power and even more by how much you enjoy Japan.
Many heartfelt thanks for uploading this and the episode on "Chikara-ishi".
(subbed)
I feel like this was the highest quality content you have done. I loved this one.
This is awesome martins. Thank you for your travels and bringing us a glimpse into cultural strength. Much appreciated.
Martinさん、あなたのお陰様で日本人に生まれたことを誇らしく思えました。
素敵な動画とパッションをありがとう。
少しずつ、すり足が上手くなってくの見ていて楽しかったです！
吊り出しの時の体の使い方最高でした！
土俵際、上半身の力だけで体を入れ替えてたのすごかったですね！
ただ腰に大きく負担がかかるのでちょっと心配でした。
次回は幕内力士と一緒に修練出来るとよいですね！
Thank you very much for introducing Japanese culture to so many non-Japanese people through English, as it is properly understood through a foreigner's eyes.
I'm Japanese and have been watching sumo for a long time. This has been the case since the days of Yokozuna Chiyonofuji in the 80s and Yokozuna Takanohana in the 90s. I am very happy that you have come to practice with great respect for the tradition and culture of sumo. And I feel that you have gained a deeper understanding of sumo. Your surashi and shiko moves were very good, making you look like a real sumo wrestler.
I've been waiting for this video since it was announced. As a Sumo fan and a Strength Unknown fan, I already know it's gonna be great before I even start watching it! Let's go!
I love how the Sumo’s can be serious when they train, but they also have a sense of humor
They are called Rikishis. Or Sumo Wrestlers for most layman.
It’s as if they’re people too, eh?🧐
@@sgtjyf01 There are lots of names! They are also called Sumotori and Osumosan. Each of the three can all generically refer to a practitioner of sumo. There are also more specific names like Sekitori, for paid pros in Juryo (Div 2) and above. In my humble opinion, "sumos" is fine. For fun, I might start calling them Sumojin (相撲人)
@@casualjesoterik9192 Rikishi, sumotori and just plain old sumo wrestler are the most common, general terms. Sekitori, komusubi, ozeki, yokozuna, etc are the names of the various ranks. Calling them "sumos" is like calling a football player a football. Sumo is the sport. Rikishi, sumotori or wrestler is the athlete who does the sport. I don't get too hung up on semantics when it's people who have no prior knowledge of sumo, but I feel like it still needs to be said, ya know?
Its almost like they're normal people or something.
Man I just have to say I only stumbled across your videos but you have a massive new fan. You write so well and come across as respectful, considerate, kind and strong. Keep on lifting weights, hearts and minds.
Can't express how much I have enjoyed your whole strength unknown saga, awesome stuff!
I just discovered this channel yesterday, and man.. It makes me so damn happy when cultures share commonalities and celebrate it.
The world needs more cultural exchanges like this, because it really is breaking barriers in the most wholesome way.
Amazing videography and easily my favorite series on TH-cam. It would be awesome to also see what the rikishi think of Martin's strength and how well it translates to sumo.
Thanks for making this and these videos deserve millions of views
The best series on strength I have ever seen, incredible!
Great vid! I've been getting into sumo lately and it's been very cool to see an inside perspective on the back end of the tournament I just watched. As far as combat sports go, it really fascinated me how the simplicity and strictness of the rules lends itself to such flexibility in techniques. Stomp the demons down, and attack while moving forward!
This was utterly beautiful. Thank you Martins and Romark for sharing and providing us with such a wonderful experience.
This is hands down the best behind the scenes of a sumo table I have ever watched, thank you so much for blessing us with this brother.
I have the utmost respect for you guys pulling off such an incredible production with intensely high information value! this has been a bliss to watch and I am excited for what's still to come! this is just amazing!
Just had the honor of going to the sumo tournament in Fukuoka while i was visiting last week this was such a cool glimpse into the training they do
A big Sumo fan here. You went full on in this experience, truly understood the way of living of a Rikishi! Also, pretty cool to see you ate the Tatsunami Beya which is training ground from the Ozeki Hoshoryu, the nephew of the great Mongolian Yokozuna Asashoryu!
martins looks like a natural in a mawashi! i'm glad he didn't half-ass it and whole-assed it instead. imo that's a sign of deep respect for sumo culture; even some amateur sumo competitors still wear tights under the mawashi.
This series really brings fitness content to new heights. I'm always so impressed with how thoughtful and grateful you are for your experiences. Thank you for this!
There's a depth to the content you provide Martins. It isn't just about the headline and the clicks with you. It's about immersion and learning about the world. Loved it when you came and visited Quebec w/ Caron
Next grand sumo tournament is mid January. Tune in folks!
I've followed you through wsm for awhile and I've got to say as someone who just discovered your videos of strength unknown and your japan trip I'm really appreciative of your humble, sincere and extremely wholesome perspective. Your stuff evokes a lot of anthony bourdains travel shows and I mean that in the best way possible. I also feel a reminder of my past passion for strength and exercise and feel somewhat reinvigorated by your passion for strength in all its forms. Thank you for your passion and thanks for these lenses into strength that I never really would have gotten to appreciate before.
There's an alternate timeline where Martins went to Japan instead of the USA and became the world's first Latvian Yokozuna.
Oh that would be pretty amazing 🥹🫶
And in one of those bashos we had a three way playoff between Baruto, Tochi and ...I guess Martins would be Ryu?
@@MartinsLicis Absolutely! I mean that honestly, because anyone who has it in them to become the World's Strongest Man, they would also have had it in them to reach the top of the sumo world if that was the path they chose instead. And with the way you're throwing some of these guys around, along with how you caught yourself during some techniques they used to try and throw you off, you look like a natural!
Don't hold your breath; only three white guys to my knowledge have even made ozeki.
@@ericdietz1795 Well sure, and I wouldn't be shocked if there were politics at play that also extra-ensured that happened, but Martins is definitely a cut above.
I was NOT expecting this when starting the video. I was expecting the typical strongman youtube video. This really reminded me of Anthony Bourdain, and I don't say that lightly! This didn't feel like content just for content's sake, it felt like authentic storytelling, with depth of experience. I'm impressed, immediately liked and subscribed!
Legendary series. I get incredibly excited every time I see an episode posted. Martins and team u rock!🤘
是非、幕内力士と立会って欲しいです！次元の違う強さと巧さを実感できると思うので。
Martins adapts quickly to sumo due to his foundation in wrestling. Also, in sumo, it's crucial to lower the hips and place the center of gravity within, and this closely resembles the way the center of gravity is positioned during a barbell squat (more so than in a sumo deadlift) Therefore, facing lower-ranked opponents, Martins' belt grip and lifting techniques are quite formidable. (I honestly wished to see him face higher-ranked opponents, while I understand that professional sumo wrestlers who get paid to showcase matches can't just engage in sumo on TH-cam.)
Anyway, this underscores how explosive power developed through weight training and a proper diet is beneficial in sumo. David mentions that Japan's strength training methodology is about 10 years behind the U.S., but in the conservative and tradition-bound sumo world, it might be more like 30 to 50 years behind. While there is increase of wrestlers and stablemasters who value sports science and nutrition lately, there still seem to be many leaders who believe strength required for sumo is primarily developed through practice matches.
I’m not a sumo fan nor a football fan. My attention span is short so its quite a surprise that I finished this more than 28 minute video. The story telling and cinemography as well as the respect thoughout the filming made me subscribe to this channel. Good work!
This series deserves to be like on the discovery channel. Level of production is crazy.
Props to you for not only respecting the culture, but also the language. Japan is one of my 2 homes, glad you enjoyed it! Thank you for being open and respecting.
I have been saying for years now that if Sumo, Strongman, and American football training practices were properly and carefully mixed and merged the competitor in any of those would be in a class by themselves within the first year and nearly mythological in ability by the end of five.
It would be a breathtaking journey to witness.
Maaan....a sumo-docu from the view of a real strongman....cant tell you, how much I appreciate your time and effort, Martins....very, very well done....keep up the good work.I ll watch your other docu's now....cant wait...I would just loooove to see such a Sumo-event live....like when I was the first time in the Lumpinee-stadium myself (Muay-Thai, Bangkok)....the atmosphere and all....goosebumps.Similar english-difficulties, btw..and oc Karaoke...ALL Asians are Karaokeans, from Vietnam over Japan to Thailand and even the Philippines(my wife is Philippina, she and her friends do Karaoke aaa lot).....haha. Wow..it showed how much there depends on leg-strength (makes sense)....if even you, a dude with some of the strongest legs on that planet is sweating....
I've watched sumo my whole life. The sumotori are not used to getting visitors that can match their size. I bet they were really excited to see martins lol
Brilliant, absolutely brilliant. I loved that you learnt Japanese as well. Shows how much you respect the culture. Great work! Prosperous, healthy and happy 2024 to you and your team!
great writing, great storytelling and great respect that can be felt through the video. I'm just starting but this series is really a great point of entry into sumo .. and strongmen subculture. Really interesting and fascinating. Will share on the blog in the following times.
Thank you so much! Greatly appreciate the kind comment, support, and shoutout in your blog 🙌
On top of the respectful tone throughout the video, Martins' use of Japanese is especially incredible. Such sincere production!
❤❤❤ I was so excited for this to be released ❤❤❤ amazing work Romark and Martins ❤❤❤
The entire composition of this video is incredible. It's so well done. The story and the personal interpretations of what's going on is just sick. Narration and pacing is absolutely perfect. Probably one of the best vids here on TH-cam. Respect. 👺
I can tell you studied a lot of Japanese before going over there. I'm sure the locals appreciated that! I think you'd integrate well if you chose to move there!
I wasn't expecting much from this video, but as a sumo fan I'm impressed at the respect shown and the commentary. You understood what sumo is all about and it showed.
Amazing video, that's the kind of western attention sumo needs outside of japan.
24:33 look at the legs. the amount of muscle they carry is amazing
脂肪と筋肉そして柔軟性もある。こんなのとぶつかったらひとたまりもないね
I started watching Sumo in 2019 during the California lockdown. I am now hooked for life. I have not missed a Sumo tournament since. This by far is the toughest sport out there. Constant competition testing you, mentality and physically, it’s not like professional sports around the world. Yokozuna is the top rank, you can never lose your ranking till you retire. However everyone else has to win, if you lose in competition you lose your rank and salary.
May God richly bless everyone 🇮🇱✝️🇺🇸!
素人で力士の練習に参加するなんて凄い！初日はぎこちない動きに見えたが2日目は結構サマになってたね！
首お大事にしてください。軽トラにぶつかってる様な物だから😅
I've been watching the futagoyama beya channel and have been following there channel for a while , this was super cool to watch from an English point of view , literally pro content I loved every second of it,
Amazing high quality content. You were super good at this. I think they weren’t impressed with your size alone but also the speed and agility. How did people react to your Japanese? I’ve heard mixed opinions that they really don’t like when foreigners speak it.
I’m so impressed with you and your willingness to give things you are new to ago. Your effort to learn the language and embrace the culture is a testament to your down to earth and humble nature. Became a huge fan watching this episode and the chikara ishii stone lifting episode!
Honestly, I cannot express the amount of respect and envy I have for you doing this. The excitement, passion, pressure, and respect you share by understanding and sharing this is perfect. There have been so many white washed videos of people attempting to delve into Sumo culture that annoy me to no end. This was perfect!
Hey Martins, I'm glad you approached this video with such humility and respect. To the point of learning the language!! Some people in the west view the sport as a kind of a freak show instead of a two thousand year old martial art with its associated and very committed life style. Excellent work.
Martins : “ I feel like I’m in a movie or a show or something” Romark : “you’re on TH-cam” 😂😂😂😂
This is amazing! Thank you so much for bringing us this footage, what a blessing to have this inside look at heya life. Huge respect for putting yourself through their rigorous training, you fit right in. Just awesome!
That THROW at 23:54!!!!!! LETS GOO 💪💪💪💪💪💪
I just know already this video is going to be great
This deserves waaaaaay more views! Great narration, footage, and editing.