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Only a handful of competitions can keep viewers enthralled through an extended period of ceremony before the initial score is even decided.

Yet the intricate traditions unfolding in a small clay ring - mostly preserved for centuries - managed to do just that.

Experience the Prestigious Rikishi Event

This multi-day tournament at the iconic London venue features numerous elite rikishi showcasing a sport whose first mention dates back to the first century BC.

London's renowned auditorium has been utterly transformed, complete with a massive traditional roof structure hanging above the competition area.

Historical Ceremonies Meet Modern Technology

It is here the wrestlers, known as sumo professionals, perform their leg stomps to expel negative energies, and where they strike their hands to get the attention of the deities.

Above all this historical practice, a enormous circular monitor - that would fit perfectly at an NBA match - offers the crowd all the data and video they could want.

Global Fans Discover Sumo

For an enthusiastic follower, it was a "random video" that first captivated her a couple of years ago.

This was quickly followed by the discovery of focused video platforms for training facilities, where athletes reside and practice, rising before dawn to work out, followed by a high protein stew and then an afternoon nap - all in the service of increasing mass.

Hailing from Scotland, Different Experience

Another couple discovered sumo through a conventional method: a visit to the country six years ago.

"We considered it a common sightseeing event, but we actually developed passion for the sport," says Julia.

"Subsequently, we tried to discover networks, materials, just to learn more about it," adds Cezar.

Special Event

Visiting the homeland is typically the sole method to see a top-flight sumo tournament.

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

Even going to Japan isn't a guarantee of obtaining admission, with current times seeing completely booked tournaments.

Live Observation

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

"Watching nearby, you get a feeling of velocity and the force which you won't feel on TV," says Caspar Eliot. "Their stature is remarkable."

The Bouts

To win the match, one rikishi needs to move the other man off the clay or to the surface using physical force.

The primary group use one of pair of techniques to achieve this, often in split seconds - shoving, or grappling.

Either way, the sound of the two rikishi meeting in the initial contact of the match resounds around the auditorium.

Premium Seating

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

During one recent bout, a tall wrestler tumbled into the crowd - perhaps making those in more affordable locations experience comfort.

Internal Challenges

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

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 successful competitions - is not without its challenges behind the scenes.

Potential Issues

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

Its following among the younger generation is also being threatened by alternative competitions, while Japan's falling birthrate will not help.

Global Community

Not that any of this has troubled spectators in London.

"Experiencing the custom and formality that goes with sumo is particularly meaningful," one enthusiast notes. "Currently, observing it in person, you sense that you are more part of it."

For other dedicated followers, the intensity "produced unforgettable moments" - as did encountering the fellow enthusiasts.

"Getting out of a very niche online community and being able to observe numerous sumo fans directly and being able to converse with other people who are equally passionate as we are - it was absolutely worthwhile."