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Only a handful of competitions can keep viewers enthralled through 45 minutes of tradition before the opening contest is even contested.

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

Experience the Grand Sumo Tournament

This week-long competition at the historic concert hall features 40 of the very best sumo athletes showcasing a sport whose earliest records dates back to the first century BC.

London's historic performance space has been completely reimagined, complete with a six-tonne Japanese temple roof hanging above the competition area.

Ancient Traditions Meet Current Innovations

It is here the athletes, known as sumo professionals, perform their foot stomping to banish evil spirits, and where they applaud to attract the gods.

Above all this historical practice, a giant, revolving LED screen - that appears natural at an American basketball game - offers the crowd all the statistics and footage they could want.

International Enthusiasts Discover Sumo

For one dedicated fan, it was a "chance online clip" that first captivated her a couple of years ago.

This was rapidly enhanced by the discovery of specialized online content for rikishi houses, where competitors stay and exercise, waking up early to practice, followed by a protein-rich meal and then an afternoon nap - all in the pursuit of gaining weight.

Hailing from Scotland, Different Experience

Different enthusiasts discovered sumo through a conventional method: 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.

"Subsequently, we tried to locate groups, resources, just to deepen our understanding about it," her partner continues.

Special Event

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

This London competition marks only the second occasion the tournament has appeared in the capital - the initial occasion was in over three decades ago.

Even going to Japan isn't a guarantee of securing tickets, with current times seeing sold-out events.

Live Observation

For many attendees, the current event represents the first time they have watched sumo in person - and it lives up to the hype.

"Observing directly, you get a understanding of quickness and the power which you don't get on TV," says Caspar Eliot. "Their stature is remarkable."

The Bouts

To achieve victory, one rikishi 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 moments - thrusting, or clenching.

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

Prime Locations

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

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

Organizational Issues

Of course, the stature of the athletes is one of the initial aspects most people imagine when they consider the sport.

The facility's operators revealed they "had to source and purchase additional seating which can withstand 200kg in weight."

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

Future Challenges

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

Its popularity among youth in Japan is also being threatened by other sports, while Japan's falling birthrate will not help.

International Network

Not that any of this has troubled spectators in London.

"Experiencing the ritual and ceremony that is part of sumo is especially significant," one enthusiast notes. "Now, seeing it directly, you feel like you are more involved."

For other enthusiastic fans, the drama "created amazing experiences" - as did encountering the like-minded individuals.

"Getting out of a very niche 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 absolutely worthwhile."