No more 'lucky' beards: Japan's sumos hit by whisker ban

Japanese sumo officials have introduced a crackdown on beards, calling them "indecent" and telling wrestlers they must look spick and span during competitions under strict, new rules on personal grooming.

The draconian whisker ban is part of fresh regulations also barring tattoos and long nails, local media reported Wednesday, as the authorities look to clean up the image of Japan's roly-poly sport.

Superstitious sumo wrestlers often decline to shave their beards during tournaments as they believe it brings them luck, but the Japan Sumo Association (JSA) have decided they will no longer tolerate such slovenliness.

"Wrestlers must preserve their personal hygiene," JSA elder Oguruma told reporters after a board meeting.

"Officials and referees will be on the lookout. The sumo ring is sacred and it's important spectators don't see anything unsightly."
Grand champion Kakuryu said: "It's an important point so we must absolutely adhere to it."