Fans attending a sumo wrestling tournament at the Royal Albert Hall have been told to watch out to make sure they don’t get squashed.
Attendees at the Grand Sumo Tournament have been warned about the dangers of falling wrestlers if they get too close to the ring at the five-day event.
Organisers have also warned that sand could fly out from the stage as the athletes compete to push their opponent out of the ring.
More than 40 Japanese sumo wrestlers, also known as maku-uchi rikishi, will take part in the tournament in west London.
Tournament officials said on the Royal Albert Hall website: “Food and/or beverages will not be allowed in the ringside, please be aware that sand or salt may occasionally be thrown from the ring.
“The tournament will be presented in the traditional style without barriers between the ring and these seats. It is possible that wrestlers may fall or be thrown from the ring into the ringside area as part of the competition.
“We therefore advise that ringside cushions may not be suitable for those with mobility issues and customers accept that any use of these seats is used entirely at their own risk.”
This marks the first time tournament, which begins on Wednesday, will be held outside of Japan.
It comes amid a surge in popularity for sumo wrestling in the UK, both in terms of audience attendance and membership of sumo clubs.
In 1991, The Royal Albert Hall hosted The Grand Sumo Tournament as part of Japan Week.
Attendees have been advised that the show is suitable for children aged eight and upwards.
Audience members near the wrestling ring will have the chance to sit on traditional cushions during the tournament, but children have been advised to avoid these.
