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Only a handful of competitions can keep viewers enthralled through 45 minutes of tradition before the first point is even determined.

Yet the intricate traditions unfolding in a traditional dohyō - virtually unchanged for generations - managed to do just that.

Welcome to the Grand Sumo Tournament

This multi-day tournament at the iconic London venue features numerous elite sumo athletes showcasing a sport whose earliest records dates back to 23BC.

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

Ancient Traditions Meet Contemporary Displays

It is here the wrestlers, known as sumo wrestlers, perform their leg stomps to drive away dark forces, and where they strike their hands to attract the deities.

Above all this ancient ceremony, a enormous circular monitor - which wouldn't look out of place at an professional sports event - offers the audience all the stats and replays they could want.

Global Fans Embrace Sumo

For Sian Spencer, it was a "random video" that first captivated her a couple of years ago.

This was quickly followed by the discovery of specialized online content for rikishi houses, where competitors stay and exercise, rising before dawn to work out, followed by a nutritious chankonabe and then an afternoon nap - all in the service of increasing mass.

From Edinburgh, Another Perspective

Different enthusiasts discovered sumo through a more traditional route: a journey to Asia six years ago.

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

"After that, we tried to discover networks, materials, just to expand our knowledge about it," the other fan explains.

Rare Opportunity

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

This week's event marks only the second instance the tournament has come to London - the previous visit was in the early nineties.

Even going to Japan isn't certain of obtaining admission, with recent years seeing completely booked tournaments.

In-Person Viewing

For many attendees, the current event represents the first time they have experienced the sport directly - and it exceeds expectations.

"Watching nearby, you get a sense of the speed and the strength which you won't feel on TV," says Caspar Eliot. "Their size is impressive."

The Competition

To succeed, one rikishi needs to move the other man off the clay or to the ground using physical force.

The majority use one of dual approaches to accomplish this, often in instantaneous actions - pushing, or wrestling.

Either way, the sound of the two wrestlers crashing together in the opening second of the match echoes around the hall.

Prime Locations

The seats right next to the ring are of course extremely sought-after - but also, a bit risky.

During one specific contest, a 191cm wrestler tumbled into the audience - perhaps making those in slightly cheaper seats feel relieved.

Organizational Issues

Of course, the dimensions of the athletes is one of the first things most people consider when they think of sumo.

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 sell-out events - is not without its difficulties behind the scenes.

Coming Obstacles

Perhaps the demanding existence of a sumo wrestler doesn't look as desirable as it once might have.

Its appeal among young Japanese is also being challenged by alternative competitions, while Japan's decreasing numbers will create further complications.

Worldwide Following

Not that any of this has worried fans in London.

"Witnessing these ritual and ceremony that accompanies sumo is quite special," an attendee explains. "Currently, observing it live, you sense that you are more involved."

For other committed supporters, the excitement "created amazing experiences" - as did interacting with the fellow enthusiasts.

"Leaving a very niche online community and being able to observe numerous sumo fans live and being able to chat with other people who are equally passionate as we are - it was completely valuable."