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Only a handful of competitions can hold spectators spellbound through an extended period of tradition before the initial score is even decided.

Yet the intricate traditions unfolding in a small clay ring - mostly preserved for centuries - succeeded in doing so.

Welcome to the Major Sumo Competition

This five-day event at the iconic London venue features 40 of the very best sumo wrestlers showcasing a sport whose initial documentation dates back to 23BC.

London's Victorian concert venue has been totally redesigned, complete with a elaborate suspended canopy hanging above the dohyō.

Time-Honored Rituals Meet Modern Technology

It is here the wrestlers, known as sumo wrestlers, perform their foot stomping to expel negative energies, and where they clap 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.

Worldwide Followers Embrace Sumo

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

This was rapidly enhanced by the discovery of dedicated YouTube channels for training facilities, where competitors stay and exercise, rising before dawn to work out, followed by a protein-rich meal and then an daytime sleep - all in the service of bulking up.

Traveling from the North, Different Experience

Another couple discovered sumo through a more traditional route: a journey to Asia six years ago.

"We considered it a common sightseeing event, but we actually ended up loving the sport," explains the fan.

"After that, we tried to find communities, information, just to learn more about it," adds Cezar.

Rare Opportunity

Going to Japan is generally the primary approach to see a top-flight sumo tournament.

This week's event marks only the second time the tournament has visited the city - the previous visit was in over three decades ago.

Even going to Japan isn't a guarantee of securing tickets, with recent years seeing completely booked tournaments.

First-Hand Experience

For many attendees, the UK competition represents the premier chance they have watched sumo in person - and it lives up to the hype.

"Watching nearby, you get a understanding of quickness and the force which you don't get on TV," notes one fan. "They are so big."

The Matches

To succeed, one competitor needs to force his opponent out of the ring or to the floor using physical force.

The majority use one of pair of techniques to achieve this, often in instantaneous actions - shoving, or grappling.

Either way, the noise of the two rikishi colliding in the opening second of the match reverberates around the auditorium.

Prime Locations

The positions right next to the ring are of course highly prized - but also, a bit risky.

During one specific contest, a large wrestler fell into the crowd - perhaps making those in slightly cheaper seats breathe a sigh of relief.

Behind the Scenes

Of course, the stature of the athletes is one of the primary elements most people consider when they contemplate wrestling.

The hall's organizers revealed they "had to source and acquire reinforced furniture which can withstand 200kg in weight."

But sumo - for all its popular tournaments - is not without its troubles behind the scenes.

Future Challenges

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

Its following among the younger generation is also being threatened by different athletic pursuits, while Japan's decreasing numbers will present additional challenges.

International Network

Not that any of this has concerned enthusiasts in London.

"Experiencing the tradition and practice that is part of sumo is particularly meaningful," an attendee explains. "Today, watching it live, you sense that you are more involved."

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

"Getting out of a very niche online community and being able to witness multiple sumo fans live and being able to speak to other people who are equally passionate as we are - it was absolutely worthwhile."