(http://msnbcmedia.msn.com/j/MSNBC/Components/Photo/_new/121130_sumo.photoblog600.jpg)Issei Kato / ReutersMongolian-born grand sumo champion Yokozuna Asashoryu performs a ring-entering ritual at Meiji Shrine in Tokyo on January 6, 2010 . With a history spanning centuries, sumo once graced the Imperial courts of Japan and wrestlers were held in the highest regard. Those days are long gone. Today, sumo struggles to fill stadiums and attract new fans. By ReutersTOKYO -- Aspiring sumo wrestler Mainoumi once convinced doctors to inject silicone into his scalp to meet height requirements for the ancient Japanese sport. Such sacrifice is a rarity now in a sport beset by scandals and with popularity at an all-time low.
With a history spanning centuries, sumo once graced the imperial courts of Japan and wrestlers were held in the highest regard. Sponsors lavished gifts on the hulking giants and to join the ranks of the sumo was considered a worthy occupation.
Those days are long gone, however.
Tarnished by scandals involving drug use, bout-fixing, violence and alleged links to Japanese organized crime, sumo struggles to fill stadiums and attract new fans.
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