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Few sports can hold spectators spellbound through three-quarters of an hour of tradition before the initial score is even determined.

Yet the complex rituals unfolding in a small clay ring - virtually unchanged for generations - succeeded in doing so.

Experience the Grand Sumo Tournament

This multi-day tournament at the iconic London venue features numerous elite rikishi showcasing a sport whose first mention dates back to ancient times.

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

Historical Ceremonies Meet Modern Technology

It is here the athletes, known as sumo professionals, perform their shiko exercises to drive away dark forces, and where they strike their hands to summon the deities.

Above all this ancient ceremony, a massive rotating display - 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 "unexpected footage" that first captivated her a couple of years ago.

This was rapidly enhanced by the discovery of focused video platforms for rikishi houses, where athletes reside and practice, rising before dawn to work out, followed by a nutritious chankonabe and then an midday rest - all in the effort toward gaining weight.

Hailing from Scotland, Different Experience

Another couple discovered sumo through a established path: a visit to the country six years ago.

"We approached it as a very touristy activity, but we actually developed passion for the sport," says Julia.

"After that, we tried to discover networks, information, just to learn more about it," the other fan explains.

Unique Chance

Going to Japan is typically the sole method to see a major championship.

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

Even going to Japan isn't a guarantee of securing tickets, with the past period seeing fully attended competitions.

In-Person Viewing

For many attendees, the London tournament represents the premier chance they have experienced the sport directly - and it doesn't disappoint.

"Watching nearby, you get a sense of the speed and the power which you can't experience on TV," explains an attendee. "Their size is impressive."

The Competition

To achieve victory, one competitor needs to force his opponent out of the ring or to the surface using raw power.

The majority use one of pair of techniques to accomplish this, often in instantaneous actions - shoving, or grappling.

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

Premium Seating

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

During one recent bout, a 191cm wrestler fell into the spectators - perhaps making those in less expensive positions experience comfort.

Internal Challenges

Of course, the size of the athletes is one of the initial aspects most people think of when they think of sumo.

The venue's management revealed they "needed to find and acquire reinforced furniture which can withstand 200kg in weight."

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

Potential Issues

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

Its following among youth in Japan is also being competed with by alternative competitions, while Japan's falling birthrate will present additional challenges.

Worldwide Following

Not that any of this has worried fans in London.

"Experiencing the custom and formality that goes with sumo is quite special," one enthusiast notes. "Currently, observing it live, you sense that you are more engaged."

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

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