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Only a handful of competitions can keep viewers enthralled through three-quarters of an hour of ceremony before the opening contest is even determined.

Yet the intricate traditions unfolding in a small clay ring - mostly preserved for generations - managed to do just that.

Experience the Grand Sumo Tournament

This five-day event at the historic concert hall features four dozen top-tier rikishi showcasing a sport whose first mention dates back to 23BC.

London's historic performance space has been completely reimagined, complete with a six-tonne Japanese temple roof hanging above the competition area.

Time-Honored Rituals Meet Modern Technology

It is here the competitors, known as sumo wrestlers, perform their foot stomping to expel negative energies, and where they clap to attract the divine beings.

Above all this ancient ceremony, a enormous circular monitor - that would fit perfectly at an professional sports event - offers the audience all the stats and replays they could want.

Global Fans Find Sumo

For one dedicated fan, it was a "chance online clip" that first drew her interest a couple of years ago.

This was rapidly enhanced by the discovery of focused video platforms for sumo stables, where competitors stay and exercise, rising before dawn to train, followed by a nutritious chankonabe and then an afternoon nap - all in the effort toward increasing mass.

Hailing from Scotland, Another Perspective

Julia and her partner Cezar discovered sumo through a conventional method: a visit to the country six years ago.

"We considered it a typical visitor experience, but we actually came to adore the sport," says Julia.

"From there on, we tried to discover networks, information, just to deepen our understanding about it," her partner continues.

Unique Chance

Visiting the homeland is almost the only way to see a top-flight sumo tournament.

This London competition marks only the second instance the tournament has visited the city - the initial occasion was in 1991.

Even going to Japan doesn't ensure of securing tickets, with current times seeing sold-out events.

In-Person Viewing

For multiple fans, the London tournament represents the initial opportunity they have watched sumo in person - and it lives up to the hype.

"Observing directly, you get a understanding of quickness and the force which you won't feel on TV," explains an attendee. "Their size is impressive."

The Matches

To achieve victory, one rikishi needs to force his opponent from the dohyō or to the surface using raw power.

The primary group use one of pair of techniques to achieve this, often in split seconds - thrusting, or clenching.

Either way, the impact of the two wrestlers colliding in the first moment of the match reverberates around the hall.

Front Row Positions

The positions right next to the dohyō are of course extremely sought-after - but also, potentially hazardous.

During one specific contest, a 191cm wrestler fell into the audience - perhaps making those in slightly cheaper seats experience comfort.

Behind the Scenes

Of course, the stature of the athletes is one of the initial aspects most people consider when they consider the sport.

The venue's management revealed they "had to source and purchase additional seating which can take up to 200kg in weight."

But sumo - for all its successful competitions - is not without its challenges behind the scenes.

Potential Issues

Perhaps the rigorous lifestyle of a sumo wrestler doesn't look as attractive as it once might have.

Its following among the younger generation is also being competed with by alternative competitions, while Japan's falling birthrate will present additional challenges.

Worldwide Following

Not that any of this has troubled spectators in London.

"Experiencing the custom and formality that accompanies sumo is quite special," one enthusiast notes. "Currently, observing it live, you feel like you are more involved."

For other enthusiastic fans, the excitement "produced unforgettable moments" - as did meeting the like-minded individuals.

"Emerging from a highly specialized online community and being able to witness multiple sumo fans in person and being able to speak to other people who are similarly enthusiastic as we are - it was completely valuable."