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Not many athletic disciplines can keep viewers enthralled through three-quarters of an hour of ceremony before the first point is even decided.

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

Discover the Major Sumo Competition

This multi-day tournament at the iconic London venue features numerous elite sumo athletes showcasing a sport whose initial documentation dates back to 23BC.

London's historic performance space has been completely reimagined, complete with a massive traditional roof structure hanging above the ring.

Historical Ceremonies Meet Modern Technology

It is here the athletes, known as rikishi, perform their leg stomps to banish evil spirits, and where they strike their hands to get the attention of the divine beings.

Above all this historical practice, a giant, revolving LED screen - that would fit perfectly at an professional sports event - offers the spectators all the data and video they could want.

International Enthusiasts Embrace Sumo

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

This was quickly followed by the discovery of specialized online content for sumo stables, where competitors stay and exercise, starting their day early to practice, followed by a protein-rich meal and then an afternoon nap - all in the effort toward bulking up.

Hailing from Scotland, Alternative View

Different enthusiasts discovered sumo through a conventional method: a visit to the country six years ago.

"We approached it as a common sightseeing event, but we actually came to adore the sport," explains the fan.

"From there on, we tried to locate groups, information, just to expand our knowledge about it," her partner continues.

Special Event

Visiting the homeland is typically the sole method to see a elite competition.

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

Even traveling to Asia isn't certain of securing tickets, with current times seeing sold-out events.

In-Person Viewing

For many attendees, the UK competition represents the first time they have seen live sumo - and it exceeds expectations.

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

The Competition

To achieve victory, one competitor needs to move the other man from the dohyō or to the floor using brute strength.

The majority use one of dual approaches to succeed in this, often in moments - shoving, or wrestling.

Either way, the sound of the two wrestlers meeting in the initial contact of the match reverberates around the hall.

Prime Locations

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

During one specific contest, a large wrestler tumbled into the audience - perhaps making those in slightly cheaper seats experience comfort.

Internal Challenges

Of course, the dimensions of the wrestlers is one of the primary elements most people think of when they consider the sport.

The venue's management revealed they "needed to find 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.

Coming Obstacles

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

Its popularity among youth in Japan is also being competed with by other sports, while Japan's decreasing numbers will not help.

Worldwide Following

Not that any of this has troubled spectators in London.

"Witnessing these tradition and practice that accompanies sumo is particularly meaningful," fan Sian says. "Today, watching it in person, you feel like you are more engaged."

For other committed supporters, the excitement "created amazing experiences" - as did meeting the other fans.

"Getting out of 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."