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Few sports can keep viewers enthralled through 45 minutes of ceremony before the initial score is even contested.

Yet the complex rituals unfolding in a compact earthen circle - virtually unchanged for centuries - accomplished exactly that.

Experience the Major Sumo Competition

This five-day event at the historic concert hall features four dozen top-tier rikishi showcasing a sport whose first mention dates back to the first century BC.

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

Historical Ceremonies Meet Current Innovations

It is here the wrestlers, known as rikishi, perform their leg stomps to drive away negative energies, and where they applaud to summon the deities.

Above all this ancient ceremony, a giant, revolving LED screen - which wouldn't look out of place at an American basketball game - offers the spectators all the stats and replays they could want.

International Enthusiasts Embrace Sumo

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

This was rapidly enhanced by the discovery of dedicated YouTube channels for training facilities, where athletes reside and practice, rising before dawn to train, followed by a high protein stew and then an afternoon nap - all in the service of bulking up.

Traveling from the North, Another Perspective

Another couple discovered sumo through a conventional method: a journey to Asia six years ago.

"We saw it as a typical visitor experience, but we actually came to adore the sport," explains the fan.

"From there on, we tried to find communities, materials, just to expand our knowledge about it," her partner continues.

Rare Opportunity

Visiting the homeland is typically the sole method to see a major championship.

This London competition marks only the second time the tournament has come to London - the first time was in the early nineties.

Even visiting the country isn't a guarantee of getting a seat, with recent years seeing fully attended competitions.

First-Hand Experience

For numerous spectators, the London tournament represents the first time they have watched sumo in person - and it exceeds expectations.

"Seeing it up close, you get a feeling of velocity and the power which you don't get on TV," notes one fan. "They are so big."

The Matches

To achieve victory, one rikishi needs to force his opponent from the dohyō or to the ground using physical force.

The primary group use one of dual approaches to accomplish this, often in moments - shoving, or clenching.

Either way, the noise of the two athletes meeting in the initial contact of the match echoes around the venue.

Front Row Positions

The positions right next to the competition area are of course extremely sought-after - but also, somewhat dangerous.

During one particular match, a large wrestler went plummeting into the audience - perhaps making those in slightly cheaper seats experience comfort.

Behind the Scenes

Of course, the stature of the rikishi is one of the first things most people consider when they think of sumo.

The hall's organizers revealed they "were required to locate and purchase additional seating which can take up to 200kg in weight."

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

Potential Issues

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

Its popularity among young Japanese is also being challenged by different athletic pursuits, while Japan's falling birthrate will present additional challenges.

Global Community

Not that any of this has concerned enthusiasts in London.

"Seeing all this custom and formality that goes with sumo is quite special," an attendee explains. "Currently, observing it directly, you experience being you are more engaged."

For other dedicated followers, the excitement "created amazing experiences" - as did encountering the fellow enthusiasts.

"Getting out of a particularly focused online community and being able to observe numerous sumo fans in person and being able to chat with other people who are equally passionate as we are - it was worth every penny."