A recent sumo wrestling championship held at the gymnasium of Vändra High School culminated in the crowning of Estonia's champions in both adult and under-18 categories. The event was organized by the wrestling club Suure Karu Pojad, drawing a total of 114 wrestlers competing across eight different weight classes. Although primarily a Greco-Roman wrestling club, Suure Karu Pojad has embraced sumo as a secondary sport, indicating the growth and rising interest in sumo wrestling within Estonia.

Club leader Mario Mägisalu noted that sumo is gradually gaining popularity in Estonia despite its origins as an Eastern sport. He mentioned a promising young wrestler who, through the support of renowned wrestler Baruto, traveled to Japan last autumn to explore the possibility of qualifying for professional sumo wrestling. Mägisalu has been involved in coaching and organizing wrestling competitions for nearly 11 years, with a particular focus on sumo over the past three to four years, further spirit boosted by his younger brother Kend Mägisalu's achievement at last year's U18 European Sumo Championships where he placed fifth.

During this year's U18 championships, there were fewer participants compared to previous years, which may indicate shifting dynamics within the sport at the youth level. Nevertheless, the successful execution of the event showcased the dedication of the wrestling community in Estonia and the potential for further development in sumo wrestling, fostering a stronger sporting culture in the country.