Thus control of the archipelago was ceded to the Japanese people led by Takemikazuchi, who is said to have established the imperial family from which the present emperor traces his ancestry. Since the Japanese didn't keep any written records until the 8th century, it is impossible to know, aside from legend, exactly when sumo first developed in Japan. However, ancient wall paintings indicate that its origins are very old indeed. In prehistoric times, sumo appears to have been performed mainly as an agricultural ritual to pray for a good harvest. It is also impossible to determine whether sumo is a completely indigenous sport or whether is was influenced by similar forms of grappling from other parts of Asia and Eurasia.
Grappling seems to be a rather basic, instinctive sport played mostly by men.
The two grappled for quite a while until Sukune finally rendered some devastating kicks to Kehaya's stomach and solar plexus. There are several other legends about sumo matches held in the imperial presence before Japan adopted the Chinese writing system in the 7th century. Later records mention sumo being performed at the functions of the imperial court, including at coronation ceremonies. At the same time cultured people would gather as well at the palace to display their skills at writing poetry. After the establishment of the first shogunate in Kamakura from 1185 to 1392, sumo came to be practiced all the more as a martial art by the warrior class.