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Only a handful of competitions can hold spectators spellbound through 45 minutes of ceremony before the initial score is even contested.

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

Discover the Grand Sumo Tournament

This multi-day tournament at the historic concert hall features 40 of the very best rikishi showcasing a sport whose first mention dates back to 23BC.

London's Victorian concert venue has been completely reimagined, complete with a massive traditional roof structure hanging above the competition area.

Historical Ceremonies Meet Contemporary Displays

It is here the wrestlers, known as rikishi, perform their shiko exercises to expel negative energies, and where they strike their hands to attract the gods.

Above all this historical practice, a giant, revolving LED screen - that would fit perfectly at an NBA match - offers the crowd all the stats and replays they could want.

Global Fans Embrace Sumo

For an enthusiastic follower, it was a "random video" that first captivated her a couple of years ago.

This was soon supplemented with the discovery of specialized online content for rikishi houses, where athletes reside and practice, rising before dawn to train, followed by a nutritious chankonabe and then an afternoon nap - all in the effort toward gaining weight.

From Edinburgh, Different Experience

Julia and her partner Cezar discovered sumo through a more traditional route: a visit to the country six years ago.

"We saw it as a very touristy activity, but we actually came to adore the sport," notes the enthusiast.

"Subsequently, we tried to locate groups, resources, just to deepen our understanding about it," her partner continues.

Rare Opportunity

Traveling to Asia is typically the sole method to see a top-flight sumo tournament.

This London competition marks only the second time the tournament has visited the city - the first time was in over three decades ago.

Even going to Japan doesn't ensure of securing tickets, with current times seeing completely booked tournaments.

First-Hand Experience

For numerous spectators, the London tournament represents the initial opportunity they have seen live sumo - and it doesn't disappoint.

"Seeing it up close, you get a understanding of quickness and the strength which you don't get on TV," explains an attendee. "Their stature is remarkable."

The Competition

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

The most use one of dual approaches to achieve this, often in split seconds - pushing, or grappling.

Either way, the noise of the two wrestlers colliding in the opening second of the match echoes around the auditorium.

Prime Locations

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

During one specific contest, a large wrestler went plummeting into the audience - perhaps making those in more affordable locations experience comfort.

Organizational Issues

Of course, the stature of the rikishi is one of the first things most people think of when they consider the sport.

The facility's operators revealed they "were required to locate and purchase additional seating which can support 200kg in weight."

But sumo - for all its popular tournaments - is not without its challenges behind the scenes.

Coming Obstacles

Perhaps the rigorous lifestyle of a rikishi doesn't look as desirable as it once might have.

Its following among the younger generation is also being threatened by alternative competitions, while Japan's declining population will create further complications.

Worldwide Following

Not that any of this has concerned enthusiasts in London.

"Witnessing these custom and formality that accompanies sumo is quite special," an attendee explains. "Today, watching it directly, you sense that you are more involved."

For other dedicated followers, the drama "made it so incredible" - as did encountering the fellow enthusiasts.

"Leaving a particularly focused online community and being able to witness multiple sumo fans directly and being able to speak to other people who are just as into this as we are - it was worth every penny."