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Only a handful of competitions can keep viewers enthralled through an extended period of ritual before the opening contest is even decided.

Yet the intricate traditions unfolding in a small clay ring - mostly preserved for generations - succeeded in doing so.

Welcome to the Grand Sumo Tournament

This multi-day tournament at the iconic London venue features 40 of the very best sumo athletes showcasing a sport whose earliest records dates back to 23BC.

London's Victorian concert venue has been completely reimagined, complete with a elaborate suspended canopy hanging above the ring.

Ancient Traditions Meet Modern Technology

It is here the athletes, known as rikishi, perform their shiko exercises to banish evil spirits, and where they clap to attract the gods.

Above all this ancient ceremony, a giant, revolving LED screen - that would fit perfectly at an American basketball game - offers the audience all the data and video they could want.

Global Fans Find Sumo

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

This was quickly followed by the discovery of focused video platforms for training facilities, where athletes reside and practice, starting their day early to work out, followed by a protein-rich meal and then an daytime sleep - all in the effort toward bulking up.

From Edinburgh, Another Perspective

Julia and her partner Cezar discovered sumo through a established path: a journey to Asia six years ago.

"We saw it as a very touristy activity, but we actually developed passion for the sport," notes the enthusiast.

"After that, we tried to locate groups, materials, just to deepen our understanding about it," the other fan explains.

Special Event

Going to Japan is typically the sole method to see a elite competition.

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

Even visiting the country isn't a guarantee of getting a seat, with recent years seeing fully attended competitions.

In-Person Viewing

For multiple fans, the UK competition represents the initial opportunity they have watched sumo in person - and it exceeds expectations.

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

The Bouts

To achieve victory, one rikishi needs to push another from the dohyō or to the surface using physical force.

The most use one of dual approaches to accomplish this, often in moments - shoving, or grappling.

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

Premium Seating

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

During one specific contest, a 191cm wrestler went plummeting into the spectators - perhaps making those in more affordable locations feel relieved.

Internal Challenges

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

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

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

Coming Obstacles

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

Its appeal among the younger generation is also being competed with by different athletic pursuits, while Japan's decreasing numbers will create further complications.

International Network

Not that any of this has concerned enthusiasts in London.

"Seeing all this ritual and ceremony that is part of sumo is particularly meaningful," an attendee explains. "Currently, observing it live, you experience being you are more engaged."

For other committed supporters, the drama "created amazing experiences" - as did meeting the fellow enthusiasts.

"Emerging from a highly specialized online community and being able to witness multiple sumo fans in person and being able to converse with other people who are just as into this as we are - it was completely valuable."