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Only a handful of competitions can hold spectators spellbound through 45 minutes of ritual before the opening contest is even contested.

Yet the intricate traditions unfolding in a traditional dohyō - mostly preserved for centuries - accomplished exactly that.

Discover the Prestigious Rikishi Event

This five-day event at the historic concert hall features 40 of the very best sumo wrestlers showcasing a sport whose initial documentation dates back to 23BC.

London's renowned auditorium has been totally redesigned, complete with a massive traditional roof structure hanging above the competition area.

Time-Honored Rituals Meet Contemporary Displays

It is here the athletes, known as rikishi, perform their leg stomps to drive away negative energies, and where they strike their hands to summon the divine beings.

Above all this ancient ceremony, a giant, revolving LED screen - which wouldn't look out of place at an professional sports event - offers the spectators all the data and video they could want.

Worldwide Followers Embrace Sumo

For an enthusiastic follower, it was a "chance online clip" that first drew her interest a couple of years ago.

This was soon supplemented with the discovery of focused video platforms for sumo stables, where competitors stay and exercise, starting their day early to work out, followed by a high protein stew and then an midday rest - all in the effort toward bulking up.

Hailing from Scotland, Different Experience

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

"We considered it a typical visitor experience, but we actually ended up loving the sport," says Julia.

"After that, we tried to discover networks, materials, just to learn more about it," adds Cezar.

Rare Opportunity

Traveling to Asia is generally the primary approach to see a major championship.

This week's event marks only the second instance the tournament has visited the city - the initial occasion was in 1991.

Even visiting the country doesn't ensure of obtaining admission, with current times seeing fully attended competitions.

In-Person Viewing

For many attendees, the UK competition represents the first time they have experienced the sport directly - and it doesn't disappoint.

"Watching nearby, you get a understanding of quickness and the force which you won't feel on TV," explains an attendee. "Their size is impressive."

The Competition

To succeed, one wrestler needs to force his opponent out of the ring or to the floor using raw power.

The majority use one of dual approaches to succeed in this, often in split seconds - thrusting, or grappling.

Either way, the sound of the two rikishi colliding in the opening second of the match resounds around the auditorium.

Prime Locations

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

During one specific contest, a large wrestler fell into the audience - perhaps making those in less expensive positions experience comfort.

Organizational Issues

Of course, the stature of the rikishi is one of the primary elements most people think of when they think of sumo.

The hall's organizers revealed they "had to source and buy new chairs which can take up to 200kg in weight."

But sumo - for all its popular tournaments - is not without its troubles behind the scenes.

Potential Issues

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

Its popularity among the younger generation is also being threatened by other sports, while Japan's decreasing numbers will create further complications.

International Network

Not that any of this has concerned enthusiasts in London.

"Witnessing these tradition and practice that is part of sumo is especially significant," an attendee explains. "Currently, observing it directly, you sense that you are more engaged."

For other committed supporters, the excitement "made it so incredible" - as did meeting the like-minded individuals.

"Leaving 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 completely valuable."