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Few sports can keep viewers enthralled through three-quarters of an hour of ritual before the opening contest is even decided.

Yet the intricate traditions unfolding in a compact earthen circle - largely unaltered for generations - accomplished exactly that.

Experience the Major Sumo Competition

This week-long competition at the iconic London venue features four dozen top-tier sumo wrestlers showcasing a sport whose first mention dates back to 23BC.

London's Victorian concert venue has been completely reimagined, complete with a massive traditional roof structure hanging above the dohyō.

Historical Ceremonies Meet Contemporary Displays

It is here the athletes, known as rikishi, perform their leg stomps to drive away dark forces, 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 appears natural at an American basketball game - offers the spectators all the data and video they could want.

Global Fans Embrace Sumo

For one dedicated fan, it was a "unexpected footage" that first caught her attention a couple of years ago.

This was soon supplemented with the discovery of dedicated YouTube channels for sumo stables, where athletes reside and practice, starting their day early to work out, followed by a protein-rich meal and then an midday rest - all in the effort toward bulking up.

From Edinburgh, Alternative View

Different enthusiasts discovered sumo through a conventional method: a trip to Japan six years ago.

"We saw it as a very touristy activity, but we actually developed passion for the sport," explains the fan.

"From there on, we tried to find communities, resources, just to deepen our understanding about it," the other fan explains.

Special Event

Traveling to Asia is almost the only way to see a major championship.

This week's event marks only the second time the tournament has appeared in the capital - the first time was in 1991.

Even traveling to Asia doesn't ensure of obtaining admission, with recent years seeing fully attended competitions.

In-Person Viewing

For multiple fans, the London tournament represents the first time they have seen live sumo - and it lives up to the hype.

"Seeing it up close, you get a feeling of velocity and the power which you can't experience on TV," explains an attendee. "Their size is impressive."

The Bouts

To succeed, one competitor needs to push another out of the ring or to the surface using physical force.

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

Either way, the impact of the two athletes crashing together in the opening second of the match resounds around the hall.

Premium Seating

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

During one particular match, a tall wrestler tumbled into the crowd - perhaps making those in less expensive positions breathe a sigh of relief.

Behind the Scenes

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

The venue's management revealed they "had to source and purchase additional seating which can support 200kg in weight."

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

Future Challenges

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

Its following among youth in Japan is also being challenged by different athletic pursuits, while Japan's falling birthrate will present additional challenges.

International Network

Not that any of this has concerned enthusiasts in London.

"Witnessing these ritual and ceremony that accompanies sumo is particularly meaningful," one enthusiast notes. "Now, seeing it in person, you feel like you are more engaged."

For other enthusiastic fans, the intensity "made it so incredible" - as did encountering the fellow enthusiasts.

"Leaving a very niche online community and being able to observe numerous sumo fans in person and being able to chat with other people who are similarly enthusiastic as we are - it was completely valuable."