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Not many athletic disciplines can hold spectators spellbound through an extended period of ritual before the opening contest is even contested.

Yet the complex rituals unfolding in a traditional dohyō - virtually unchanged for generations - succeeded in doing so.

Discover the Prestigious Rikishi Event

This week-long competition at the historic concert hall features four dozen top-tier rikishi showcasing a sport whose initial documentation dates back to ancient times.

London's renowned auditorium has been totally redesigned, complete with a six-tonne Japanese temple roof hanging above the competition area.

Historical Ceremonies Meet Contemporary Displays

It is here the competitors, known as sumo wrestlers, perform their leg stomps to banish evil spirits, and where they applaud to get the attention of the deities.

Above all this traditional ritual, a enormous circular monitor - that appears natural at an American basketball game - offers the crowd all the data and video they could want.

International Enthusiasts Find Sumo

For Sian Spencer, it was a "chance online clip" that first captivated her a couple of years ago.

This was soon supplemented with the discovery of focused video platforms for sumo stables, where wrestlers live and train, starting their day early to practice, followed by a high protein stew and then an midday rest - all in the pursuit of bulking up.

From Edinburgh, Another Perspective

Different enthusiasts discovered sumo through a more traditional route: a visit to the country six years ago.

"We considered it a common sightseeing event, but we actually developed passion for the sport," says Julia.

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

Rare Opportunity

Visiting the homeland is generally the primary approach to see a top-flight sumo tournament.

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

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

Live Observation

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 sense of the speed and the force which you don't get on TV," explains an attendee. "They are so big."

The Matches

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

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

Either way, the sound of the two rikishi crashing together in the initial contact of the match resounds around the hall.

Front Row Positions

The seats right next to the ring are of course greatly valued - but also, a bit risky.

During one recent bout, a tall wrestler fell into the audience - perhaps making those in more affordable locations breathe a sigh of relief.

Internal Challenges

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

The facility's operators revealed they "had to source and purchase additional seating which can withstand 200kg in weight."

But sumo - for all its popular tournaments - is not without its challenges 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 youth in Japan is also being threatened by different athletic pursuits, while Japan's decreasing numbers will present additional challenges.

Worldwide Following

Not that any of this has concerned enthusiasts in London.

"Witnessing these tradition and practice that goes with sumo is quite special," fan Sian says. "Now, seeing it in person, you sense that you are more involved."

For other dedicated followers, the drama "made it so incredible" - as did encountering the like-minded individuals.

"Leaving a highly specialized online community and being able to see all these sumo fans directly and being able to converse with other people who are equally passionate as we are - it was completely valuable."