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Only a handful of competitions can keep viewers enthralled through 45 minutes of ceremony before the first point is even decided.

Yet the intricate traditions unfolding in a compact earthen circle - mostly preserved for centuries - managed to do just that.

Experience the Grand Sumo Tournament

This week-long competition at the historic concert hall features 40 of the very best rikishi showcasing a sport whose earliest records dates back to the first century BC.

London's historic performance space has been totally redesigned, complete with a elaborate suspended canopy hanging above the competition area.

Ancient Traditions Meet Contemporary Displays

It is here the athletes, known as sumo wrestlers, perform their leg stomps to expel evil spirits, and where they applaud to summon the gods.

Above all this traditional ritual, a massive rotating display - that appears natural at an professional sports event - offers the spectators all the stats and replays they could want.

Global Fans Discover Sumo

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

This was soon supplemented with the discovery of specialized online content for sumo stables, where athletes reside and practice, waking up early to train, followed by a protein-rich meal and then an afternoon nap - all in the pursuit of gaining weight.

Hailing from Scotland, Another Perspective

Another couple discovered sumo through a conventional method: a journey to Asia 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 find communities, information, just to learn more about it," the other fan explains.

Special Event

Visiting the homeland is generally the primary approach to see a top-flight sumo tournament.

This current tournament marks only the second occasion the tournament has appeared in the capital - the initial occasion was in the early nineties.

Even going to Japan isn't a guarantee of obtaining admission, with the past period seeing completely booked tournaments.

Live Observation

For many attendees, the current event represents the first time they have seen live sumo - and it exceeds expectations.

"Seeing it up close, you get a understanding of quickness and the force which you won't feel on TV," says Caspar Eliot. "They are so big."

The Bouts

To achieve victory, one wrestler needs to push another out of the ring or to the ground using brute strength.

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

Either way, the noise of the two wrestlers crashing together in the first moment of the match echoes around the venue.

Premium Seating

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

During one recent bout, a tall wrestler fell into the audience - perhaps making those in less expensive positions experience comfort.

Behind the Scenes

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

The facility's operators revealed they "had to source and buy new chairs which can support 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 appealing as it once might have.

Its popularity among youth in Japan is also being threatened by alternative competitions, while Japan's decreasing numbers will not help.

Global Community

Not that any of this has concerned enthusiasts in London.

"Seeing all this tradition and practice that goes with sumo is particularly meaningful," an attendee explains. "Currently, observing it live, you experience being you are more engaged."

For other committed supporters, the intensity "made it so incredible" - as did meeting the fellow enthusiasts.

"Getting out of a highly specialized online community and being able to see all these sumo fans directly and being able to converse with other people who are equally passionate as we are - it was absolutely worthwhile."