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Few sports can hold spectators spellbound through 45 minutes of tradition before the initial score is even decided.

Yet the detailed ceremonies unfolding in a traditional dohyō - largely unaltered for hundreds of years - managed to do just that.

Welcome to the Prestigious Rikishi Event

This five-day event at the historic concert hall features numerous elite rikishi showcasing a sport whose earliest records dates back to ancient times.

London's Victorian concert venue has been totally redesigned, 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 wrestlers, perform their leg stomps to banish evil spirits, and where they applaud to summon the gods.

Above all this ancient ceremony, a massive rotating display - which wouldn't look out of place at an professional sports event - offers the spectators all the statistics and footage they could want.

Worldwide Followers Discover Sumo

For one dedicated fan, it was a "random video" that first drew her interest a couple of years ago.

This was soon supplemented with the discovery of focused video platforms for rikishi houses, where competitors stay and exercise, waking up early to train, followed by a protein-rich meal and then an daytime sleep - all in the pursuit of increasing mass.

Hailing from Scotland, Alternative View

Another couple discovered sumo through a established path: a journey to Asia six years ago.

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

"From there on, we tried to discover networks, information, just to expand our knowledge about it," the other fan explains.

Rare Opportunity

Going to Japan is almost the only way to see a major championship.

This current tournament marks only the second instance the tournament has appeared in the capital - the previous visit was in 1991.

Even traveling to Asia doesn't ensure of getting a seat, with current times seeing sold-out events.

In-Person Viewing

For multiple fans, the current event represents the first time they have experienced the sport directly - and it exceeds expectations.

"Observing directly, you get a feeling of velocity and the force which you don't get on TV," explains an attendee. "Their stature is remarkable."

The Matches

To succeed, one wrestler needs to force his opponent off the clay or to the surface using physical force.

The most use one of dual approaches to accomplish this, often in instantaneous actions - thrusting, or grappling.

Either way, the impact of the two athletes colliding in the opening second of the match resounds around the venue.

Prime Locations

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

During one particular match, a large wrestler tumbled into the spectators - perhaps making those in more affordable locations feel relieved.

Behind the Scenes

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

The facility's operators revealed they "needed to find and acquire reinforced furniture which can take up to 200kg in weight."

But sumo - for all its sell-out events - is not without its difficulties behind the scenes.

Coming Obstacles

Perhaps the rigorous lifestyle of a sumo wrestler doesn't look as attractive as it once might have.

Its following among young Japanese is also being threatened by other sports, while Japan's declining population will not help.

Global Community

Not that any of this has troubled spectators in London.

"Witnessing these tradition and practice that is part of sumo is quite special," one enthusiast notes. "Now, seeing it directly, you sense that you are more involved."

For other enthusiastic fans, the drama "produced unforgettable moments" - as did meeting the other fans.

"Getting out of a very niche online community and being able to witness multiple sumo fans in person and being able to chat with other people who are just as into this as we are - it was completely valuable."