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Not many athletic disciplines can hold spectators spellbound through three-quarters of an hour of ceremony before the first point is even decided.

Yet the intricate traditions unfolding in a compact earthen circle - virtually unchanged for generations - managed to do just that.

Welcome to the Major Sumo Competition

This multi-day tournament at the historic concert hall features numerous elite rikishi showcasing a sport whose earliest records dates back to 23BC.

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

Historical Ceremonies Meet Modern Technology

It is here the competitors, known as sumo professionals, perform their leg stomps to drive away dark forces, and where they applaud to get the attention of the deities.

Above all this traditional ritual, a enormous circular monitor - that would fit perfectly at an American basketball game - offers the crowd all the data and video they could want.

Global Fans Discover Sumo

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

This was quickly followed by the discovery of specialized online content for rikishi houses, where wrestlers live and train, rising before dawn to train, followed by a protein-rich meal and then an midday rest - all in the effort toward bulking up.

Traveling from the North, Different Experience

Julia and her partner Cezar discovered sumo through a established path: a visit to the country six years ago.

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

"Subsequently, we tried to locate groups, information, just to learn more about it," the other fan explains.

Special Event

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

This week's event marks only the second occasion the tournament has appeared in the capital - the initial occasion was in the early nineties.

Even traveling to Asia isn't certain of securing tickets, with recent years seeing sold-out events.

Live Observation

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

"Watching nearby, you get a understanding of quickness and the strength which you don't get on TV," says Caspar Eliot. "Their size is impressive."

The Bouts

To achieve victory, one wrestler needs to force his opponent from the dohyō or to the surface using raw power.

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

Either way, the sound of the two wrestlers colliding in the initial contact of the match resounds around the auditorium.

Front Row Positions

The cushions right next to the ring are of course greatly valued - but also, somewhat dangerous.

During one recent bout, a tall wrestler tumbled into the crowd - perhaps making those in less expensive positions feel relieved.

Behind the Scenes

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

The facility's operators revealed they "had to source and buy new chairs which can withstand 200kg in weight."

But sumo - for all its successful competitions - is not without its difficulties behind the scenes.

Potential Issues

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

Its appeal among young Japanese 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 troubled spectators in London.

"Experiencing the tradition and practice that accompanies sumo is particularly meaningful," one enthusiast notes. "Currently, observing it live, you sense that you are more part of it."

For other dedicated followers, the excitement "produced unforgettable moments" - as did encountering the like-minded individuals.

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