Sumo Fest brings Canada’s first-ever pro sumo tournament to Calgary
Posted Mar 12, 2026 4:56 pm.
Last Updated Mar 12, 2026 5:44 pm.
A larger‑than‑life cultural first is taking over Stampede Park this weekend, as professional sumo wrestlers from Japan arrive for Sumo Fest, the first event of its kind ever held in Canada.
The two‑day festival, running Friday and Saturday at the Nutrien Western Events Centre, features three live sumo shows along with a Japanese market celebrating the sport’s deep traditions.
CityNews caught up with Ramy, a 530‑pound Egyptian-born wrestler who flew in directly from Japan to take part in the historic event. He says Calgary audiences are about to witness something that’s much more than stereotypes may suggest.
“I know this is the first time you will see a sumo competition here in Calgary, or even Canada, so we will try to show them the culture of sumo,” Ramy said. “They will never forget about that, I doubt it.”
Ramy hopes the event will challenge misconceptions about the sport.
“We’re going to change their mind about sumo,” he added. “It’s not just two fat guys pushing each other or fighting. It’s really great martial arts. They are going to see new techniques for sumo, the rules about sumo, what we wear.”
Interest in the event has been strong. All three shows were nearly sold out until organizers opened additional seating last week to meet demand.
Ticket information can be found here.
