Unreported World is in Japan examining the darker side of Sumo wrestling, from health issues, to claims of bullying and concerns around head injuries.

Hoping to become a grand champion is 12-year-old Kyuta Kumugai, a rising star in the sport who trains six days a week. But Sahar Zand meets former wrestlers blowing the whistle on their experiences. Professional sumos eat, sleep and train seven days a week in training centres, called stables. We hear that life in a stable is one of servitude, where junior wrestlers are beaten for breaking the rules, and some are made to headbutt a wooden pole hundreds of times a day.

The harsh and brutal sport comes with no weight classes and being overweight carries real advantages, and extra risks. We learn that Sumo wrestlers die 15-20 years younger than the average Japanese male.

Producer/Director: Katie Arnold
Series Producer: Andy Lee
Executive Producer: Ed Fraser
Production Company: Channel 4 News

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