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Only a handful of competitions can hold spectators spellbound through three-quarters of an hour of tradition before the first point is even contested.

Yet the complex rituals unfolding in a traditional dohyō - largely unaltered for generations - accomplished exactly that.

Discover the Prestigious Rikishi Event

This week-long competition at the historic concert hall features numerous elite rikishi showcasing a sport whose initial documentation dates back to 23BC.

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

Time-Honored Rituals Meet Current Innovations

It is here the athletes, known as sumo wrestlers, perform their shiko exercises to banish dark forces, and where they applaud to attract the divine beings.

Above all this historical practice, a giant, revolving LED screen - which wouldn't look out of place at an NBA match - offers the audience all the statistics and footage they could want.

Worldwide Followers Discover Sumo

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

This was quickly followed by the discovery of focused video platforms for rikishi houses, where competitors stay and exercise, rising before dawn to work out, followed by a protein-rich meal and then an daytime sleep - all in the effort toward gaining weight.

From Edinburgh, Different Experience

Julia and her partner Cezar discovered sumo through a more traditional route: a journey to Asia six years ago.

"We approached it as a very touristy activity, but we actually came to adore the sport," says Julia.

"From there on, we tried to find communities, information, just to expand our knowledge about it," her partner continues.

Special Event

Visiting the homeland is typically the sole method to see a elite competition.

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

Even visiting the country doesn't ensure of securing tickets, with recent years seeing completely booked tournaments.

In-Person Viewing

For multiple fans, the London tournament represents the first time they have seen live sumo - and it doesn't disappoint.

"Seeing it up close, you get a feeling of velocity and the power which you can't experience on TV," says Caspar Eliot. "Their stature is remarkable."

The Competition

To succeed, one rikishi needs to force his opponent from the dohyō or to the ground using physical force.

The primary group use one of dual approaches to accomplish this, often in moments - thrusting, or clenching.

Either way, the sound of the two athletes crashing together in the initial contact of the match echoes around the venue.

Prime Locations

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

During one specific contest, a 191cm wrestler tumbled into the spectators - perhaps making those in less expensive positions experience comfort.

Behind the Scenes

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

The facility's operators revealed they "needed to find 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.

Potential Issues

Perhaps the strict life of a rikishi doesn't look as appealing as it once might have.

Its appeal among the younger generation is also being challenged by different athletic pursuits, while Japan's decreasing numbers will present additional challenges.

Global Community

Not that any of this has worried fans in London.

"Witnessing these ritual and ceremony that is part of sumo is especially significant," one enthusiast notes. "Now, seeing it in person, you experience being you are more part of it."

For other dedicated followers, the excitement "produced unforgettable moments" - as did interacting with the other fans.

"Emerging from a highly specialized online community and being able to observe numerous sumo fans live and being able to chat with other people who are similarly enthusiastic as we are - it was absolutely worthwhile."