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Few sports can hold spectators spellbound through 45 minutes of ritual before the first point is even decided.

Yet the detailed ceremonies unfolding in a compact earthen circle - virtually unchanged for generations - accomplished exactly that.

Experience the Grand Sumo Tournament

This week-long competition at the iconic London venue features four dozen top-tier rikishi showcasing a sport whose earliest records dates back to ancient times.

London's historic performance space has been completely reimagined, complete with a massive traditional roof structure hanging above the dohyō.

Ancient Traditions Meet Current Innovations

It is here the competitors, known as sumo professionals, perform their foot stomping to drive away dark forces, and where they clap to attract the deities.

Above all this historical practice, a massive rotating display - that appears natural at an NBA match - offers the crowd all the statistics and footage they could want.

International Enthusiasts Embrace Sumo

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

This was quickly followed by the discovery of focused video platforms for sumo stables, where wrestlers live and train, rising before dawn to practice, followed by a nutritious chankonabe and then an midday rest - all in the effort toward gaining weight.

Traveling from the North, Alternative View

Different enthusiasts discovered sumo through a conventional method: a journey to Asia six years ago.

"We approached it as a very touristy activity, but we actually developed passion for the sport," explains the fan.

"Subsequently, we tried to locate groups, resources, just to learn more about it," her partner continues.

Rare Opportunity

Traveling to Asia is almost the only way to see a top-flight sumo tournament.

This current tournament marks only the second occasion the tournament has appeared in the capital - the initial occasion was in the early nineties.

Even visiting the country doesn't ensure of getting a seat, with recent years seeing sold-out events.

Live Observation

For numerous spectators, the current event represents the first time they have seen live sumo - and it lives up to the hype.

"Watching nearby, you get a feeling of velocity and the force which you don't get on TV," says Caspar Eliot. "They are so big."

The Bouts

To achieve victory, one rikishi needs to force his opponent out of the ring or to the floor using physical force.

The majority use one of dual approaches to achieve this, often in moments - thrusting, or grappling.

Either way, the noise of the two rikishi colliding in the opening second of the match resounds around the hall.

Premium Seating

The positions right next to the ring are of course greatly valued - but also, somewhat dangerous.

During one particular match, a tall wrestler tumbled into the spectators - perhaps making those in more affordable locations feel relieved.

Internal Challenges

Of course, the size of the athletes is one of the first things most people consider 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 troubles behind the scenes.

Coming Obstacles

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

Its appeal among young Japanese is also being competed with by different athletic pursuits, while Japan's decreasing numbers will present additional challenges.

Global Community

Not that any of this has concerned enthusiasts in London.

"Seeing all this custom and formality that accompanies sumo is especially significant," an attendee explains. "Now, seeing it live, you sense that you are more part of it."

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

"Leaving a particularly focused online community and being able to observe numerous sumo fans live and being able to speak to other people who are similarly enthusiastic as we are - it was completely valuable."