Larry Wheels Sumo Wrestling at Honu Sumo Club: Strength Meets Tradition
- Gary Jones
- Feb 17
- 2 min read
When it comes to raw strength and power, few names stand out like Larry Wheels. Renowned for his record-breaking lifts in powerlifting and strongman, Larry consistently pushes his limits. So, what happens when a powerhouse like him steps into a sumo wrestling ring? That's exactly what we discovered when Larry joined the Honu Sumo Club for an unforgettable training session.
Larry Wheels vs. Sumo Wrestling
Sumo is often mistaken as a sport purely about size and strength, but as Larry quickly learned, it’s a game of technique, balance, and explosive movement. His incredible power gave him an advantage, but sumo requires more than just brute force—it’s about positioning, footwork, and strategy.
Under the guidance of Coach Justin “JJ” Jones, a national champion and head coach of Honu Sumo, Larry was introduced to sumo fundamentals, including the proper stance, grip, and the all-important tachiai (initial charge). Despite being one of the strongest men in the world, Larry found himself challenged in ways he hadn’t expected—sumo demands precision, explosive energy, and control.
Sumo in Southern California
Sumo training isn’t just about pushing your physical limits; it’s about respect, discipline, and community. At Honu Sumo, we welcome athletes of all backgrounds, from total beginners to seasoned competitors, to experience the power and tradition of sumo wrestling. Whether you’re in San Diego or Orange County, there’s a place for you on the dohyo (sumo ring).
Larry’s training session showcased why sumo is one of the most effective full-body workouts, improving strength, agility, core control, and explosive power. It’s an ideal training tool for powerlifters, wrestlers, football players, and martial artists—or anyone looking for an intense, dynamic workout.

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