I had never worn such a tight pair of underpants. That was many years ago and I can still feel the cut of the cloth and the sting of the clay as I hit the ground. I wasn't wearing any name brand pants. In fact, I wasn't wearing any pants at all. I was a Sumo Wrestler! Well, for at least one night.

I have had my share of different Dojo's and Sensei's. If I start to list them they would include: Judo, Karate, Aikido, Shorinji Kenpou but (no pun, intended) Sumo takes the cake. Well, at least the glamorous part of the cake. To truly master your fears and to find inner strength nothing can come close to the thrill of the ring.

Don't get me wrong I like to watch a good fight on TV but to wear the cloth and hear the jeers and roar of the crowd will make any man find that inner strength. So now that you've got it. Flaunt it.

Step 1 - Stand Up for Yourself

"Yeah, I can do this Power Point presentation."
"No, I wanted extra sauce."
"Yes, I was in line first."

Step 2 - Be a Real Man

Have an opinion.
Be strong.
Be sensitive.

Step 3 - Care

Be passionate about something that matter. Kids. Flowers. Recycling. Check with Al Gore if necessary.

That's the inner strength everybody. The truth hurts. But not as much as losing to a smaller opponent wearing a canvas diaper. Did I mention going commando? There is no room for designer manties, Tommy's, Calvins or Stanfields here. The competition is just too tight. If you have chafing then you will be in distress and start whining.

There is No Whining Allowed. Ever. This is sumo and if you can't put on a happy face when you are wearing your snug fitting canvas underpants, or "MAWASHI" in Japanese, then pack up your troubles in your old kit bag and split - We Men of Inner Strength Stand Firm.

Many people will treat you differently when you explain that diapers are not just for babies. In fact, top Japanese athletes wear, MAWASHI, a canvas cloth that covers their business just right. These athletes are revered in Japanese culture and only dedicated individuals, like yours truly, who do not judge others are fit to enter the Sumo Ring. "So tell me", you can ask them, "are you man enough to find your inner strength and enter a Sumo Ring?"

They may just say no. That's the strength. That's power. That's Sumo, baby.