Meet the West Michigan Man Representing the U.S. at the World Sumo Championship

The first time I saw a "Sumo Wrestler" was the WWE wrestler named Yokozuna.

The sport of Sumo Wrestling was invented in Japan where it originated from ancient Shinto religious rituals and evolved into a professional sport with deep cultural roots.

While the sport has roots in Japan, it somehow found its way to a West Michigan man 10 years ago and ever since then he hasn't looked back.

Read More: 25 Things Michigan Is Known And Famous For

Gabe Unick told Wood TV 8, that when he first discovered Sumo Wrestling there wasn't much of it happening in the Midwest.

In 2018 Gabe co-founded Grand Rapids Sumo Club.

His love for the sport has had him competing competitively since 2015.

When he first started Gabe competed in the national championship in the lightweight division where he was able to place several times.

This year, Gabe moved up to the middleweight division and was able to win 1st place.

That win gave Gabe a huge sense of relief.

“I was on that cusp for so long and finally getting over the edge and winning that title, It was a huge sigh of relief, honestly, At the end of the day, I’m just grateful to be there and have the opportunity.”

Gabe's hard work and determination have now given him the incredible opportunity to travel to Thailand in September and represent the United States in the World Sumo Championship.

If you want to help support Gabe and the cost of traveling to Thailand you can do so by checking out his GoFundMe.