ATLANTA – October 16, 2026 -- Sumo Championship League (SCL) added 14 athletes to its roster, lifting the total to 59 athletes representing 15 countries as the new professional league builds its competitive depth during its inaugural season.
SCL signs former Japanese Grand Sumo competitors
The new additions include former Japanese Grand Sumo competitors and international champions. Shijirbayar Chimidregzen reached the rank of Maegashira 9 in Japanese Grand Sumo, while Delgersaikhan Uuganbaatar reached Makushita 7.
Individual event fields for the new athletes will be announced in advance, according to the league. Athlete participation will vary by event.
Stuart Snyder, Chairman and CEO of SCL, said the larger roster gives the league more matchups and rivalries, and that fans are responding to the sport's energy.
Fourteen SCL athletes from seven countries head to Baku
Fourteen athletes on SCL's roster, representing seven countries, are scheduled to compete at the Sumo World Championships on October 17-18 at Baku Sports Hall in Azerbaijan. The event brings together the world's strongest sumo athletes to represent their countries in international amateur competition.
Chicago and Ontario events follow the Austin opener
After its inaugural event in Austin, SCL's schedule continues November 7 at Credit Union 1 Arena in Chicago. The league then stages an event on December 19 at Toyota Arena in Ontario, California.