Ssireum star’s exit deals blow to struggling sport

As ssireum ― traditional Korean wrestling ― is losing ground, some players are moving to other combat sports.
The demise of LG Ssireum leaves the professional league with only two teams.
Choi Hong-man, probably the most recognizable face on the former LG team, has decided to try out his skills in a Japanese K-1 tournament, a no-holds-barred fighting contest.
Cha Kyeong-man, former coach of the LG team, is worried that Choi will only hurt himself trying K-1.
“That Choi is leaving ssireum is a loss for our league,” said the former coach.
“I am worried that he will end up looking like a fool without much success. There is still a chance that the team can be salvaged,” he said.
Ssireum officials said they are still trying to find a buyer for the LG team.
Choi is expected to make his debut in March against former sumo champion Chad George Ha’aheo Rowan, better known as “Akebono.” Before the official match he is expected to have some sparring rounds in Japan.
Choi is confident that he will adjust in no time to the new sport.
“I have a two dan black belt in taekwondo,” said Choi, who added that his agent is expected to close a deal soon with Fighting Entertainment Group that is in charge of managing K-1. “I am very confident in this sort of combat sport. I have seen the tapes of the Akebono. I am faster, and I am good at learning new techniques.”
Choi said he had asked for a two-year contract that would require him to have six fights per year with a signing bonus of 1 billion won ($9,430,000).
Meanwhile, former ssireum players said Choi’s departure is a blow to the struggling sport. “If he leaves, it will be even harder to find a buyer for the team,” said Lee Man-ki, a former ssireum champion. “I sincerely hope that Choi reconsiders his decision.

by Choi Joon-ho, Brian Lee