The ancient traditions of lucha libre and sumo wrestling are making their way to Southern California next month.
Sumo and Sushi will take over the Ace Mission Studios in Los Angeles, from Nov. 6-9, and Lucha VaVoom will have its first event at the Fox Theater in Pomona on Nov. 8 for a special Dia de los Muertos show.
Sumo and Sushi is an entertainment event that also incorporates an educational element, showcasing the 1,500-year-old combat art of sumo alongside a selection of sushi, sake, beer, and spirits. The events will feature Q&A sessions with the wrestlers, who will discuss the history, rules, and sumo culture, followed by over 12 live exhibition matches. The wrestlers at the event will go toe-to-toe in matches between Meccha, Osaka Jo, Ohtani, Yuji, Saku, Ruru and Yama.
Former sumo wrestler Konishiki, the first non-Japanese-born wrestler to reach ōzeki, the second-highest rank in sumo, will host the events. Konishiki won the top division championship three times and is also a musician, having released several Hawaiian-inspired albums.
The event offers several ticket options, including front row admission, which provides front row dining table seating around the sumo ring, a premium bento box & miso soup, a drink with admission, and a photo opportunity with wrestlers at the end of the event. Tickets to watch the show on its own, a show and dining experience combo, and VIP suites are also available. If you’re feeling up to it, an option to go head-to-head with a sumo wrestler is also available as an add-on. All ticket options are available at sumoandsushi.com.
In addition to the Sumo and Sushi event, fans of wrestling can also catch a Lucha VaVoom show. The Lucha VaVoom events have been a regular occurrence at the Mayan in Los Angeles for 22 years, but for the first time, they will bring their “sexo y violencia” to their new home at the Fox Theater Pomona on Nov. 8 for a Dia de los Muertos show.
Lucha VaVoom often incorporates a mix of world-class professional lucha libre wrestling, burlesque, and comedy, appealing to wrestling lovers as well as those who enjoy a good show. The 21-and-over event will feature live music, classic cars, tequila, and a mix of Latin foods available for purchase. All tickets for Lucha VaVoom can be purchased at luchavavoomdelaliz.com.