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Not many athletic disciplines can hold spectators spellbound through 45 minutes of tradition before the first point is even determined.

Yet the intricate traditions unfolding in a compact earthen circle - virtually unchanged for hundreds of years - succeeded in doing so.

Experience the Prestigious Rikishi Event

This week-long competition at the iconic London venue features four dozen top-tier 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 massive traditional roof structure hanging above the competition area.

Historical Ceremonies Meet Modern Technology

It is here the competitors, known as sumo wrestlers, perform their shiko exercises to expel negative energies, and where they clap to get the attention of the deities.

Above all this traditional ritual, a massive rotating display - that would fit perfectly at an professional sports event - offers the spectators all the statistics and footage they could want.

Global Fans Discover Sumo

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

This was quickly followed by the discovery of dedicated YouTube channels for sumo stables, where competitors stay and exercise, rising before dawn to practice, followed by a protein-rich meal and then an midday rest - all in the pursuit of increasing mass.

Traveling from the North, Alternative View

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

"We considered it a very touristy activity, but we actually ended up loving the sport," says Julia.

"Subsequently, we tried to find communities, information, just to deepen our understanding about it," her partner continues.

Special Event

Visiting the homeland is almost the only way to see a top-flight sumo tournament.

This current tournament marks only the second instance the tournament has visited the city - the previous visit was in the early nineties.

Even going to Japan doesn't ensure of getting a seat, with recent years seeing sold-out events.

First-Hand Experience

For multiple fans, the current event represents the first time they have experienced the sport directly - and it lives up to the hype.

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

The Matches

To achieve victory, one rikishi needs to push another from the dohyō or to the ground using raw power.

The most use one of two styles to accomplish this, often in split seconds - pushing, or grappling.

Either way, the sound of the two athletes meeting in the first moment of the match reverberates around the auditorium.

Premium Seating

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

During one recent bout, a large wrestler tumbled into the spectators - perhaps making those in slightly cheaper seats experience comfort.

Internal Challenges

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

The hall's organizers revealed they "had to source and buy new chairs which can take up to 200kg in weight."

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

Coming Obstacles

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

Its following among young Japanese is also being challenged by different athletic pursuits, while Japan's falling birthrate will not help.

International Network

Not that any of this has troubled spectators in London.

"Seeing all this tradition and practice that goes with sumo is quite special," fan Sian says. "Currently, observing it live, you sense that you are more engaged."

For other committed supporters, the excitement "made it so incredible" - as did interacting with the other fans.

"Emerging from a very niche online community and being able to see all these sumo fans directly and being able to speak to other people who are equally passionate as we are - it was absolutely worthwhile."