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Only a handful of competitions can hold spectators spellbound through an extended period of ceremony before the initial score is even determined.

Yet the intricate traditions unfolding in a compact earthen circle - virtually unchanged for generations - succeeded in doing so.

Discover the Prestigious Rikishi Event

This multi-day tournament at the iconic London venue features 40 of the very best sumo wrestlers showcasing a sport whose first mention dates back to ancient times.

London's renowned auditorium has been totally redesigned, complete with a six-tonne Japanese temple roof hanging above the competition area.

Time-Honored Rituals Meet Contemporary Displays

It is here the wrestlers, known as sumo wrestlers, perform their shiko exercises to banish negative energies, and where they clap to attract the divine beings.

Above all this traditional ritual, a massive rotating display - that appears natural at an American basketball game - offers the audience all the statistics and footage they could want.

Worldwide Followers Discover Sumo

For one dedicated fan, it was a "unexpected footage" that first drew her interest a couple of years ago.

This was quickly followed by the discovery of dedicated YouTube channels for training facilities, where wrestlers live and train, starting their day early to train, followed by a high protein stew and then an daytime sleep - all in the service of gaining weight.

Hailing from Scotland, Different Experience

Another couple discovered sumo through a conventional method: a journey to Asia six years ago.

"We considered it a typical visitor experience, but we actually developed passion for the sport," explains the fan.

"Subsequently, we tried to discover networks, resources, just to deepen our understanding about it," adds Cezar.

Unique Chance

Going to Japan is almost the only way to see a major championship.

This current tournament marks only the second instance the tournament has come to London - the initial occasion was in over three decades ago.

Even traveling to Asia doesn't ensure of getting a seat, with recent years seeing completely booked tournaments.

Live Observation

For numerous spectators, the current event represents the initial opportunity they have watched sumo in person - and it lives up to the hype.

"Observing directly, you get a sense of the speed and the force which you don't get on TV," explains an attendee. "Their stature is remarkable."

The Bouts

To win the match, one wrestler needs to push another out of the ring or to the floor using physical force.

The majority use one of two styles to achieve this, often in moments - pushing, or grappling.

Either way, the impact of the two wrestlers colliding in the initial contact of the match resounds around the auditorium.

Premium Seating

The seats right next to the dohyō are of course highly prized - but also, potentially hazardous.

During one specific contest, a 191cm wrestler fell into the crowd - perhaps making those in slightly cheaper seats breathe a sigh of relief.

Internal Challenges

Of course, the size of the rikishi is one of the primary elements most people consider when they contemplate wrestling.

The hall's organizers revealed they "needed to find and purchase additional seating which can withstand 200kg in weight."

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

Coming Obstacles

Perhaps the strict life of a professional athlete doesn't look as desirable as it once might have.

Its appeal among youth in Japan is also being challenged by other sports, while Japan's decreasing numbers will not help.

Worldwide Following

Not that any of this has concerned enthusiasts in London.

"Witnessing these ritual and ceremony that accompanies sumo is especially significant," fan Sian says. "Now, seeing it live, you experience being you are more involved."

For other dedicated followers, the intensity "produced unforgettable moments" - as did interacting with the like-minded individuals.

"Emerging from a very niche online community and being able to witness multiple sumo fans live and being able to speak to other people who are equally passionate as we are - it was worth every penny."