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Few sports can hold spectators spellbound through three-quarters of an hour of ritual before the opening contest is even decided.

Yet the complex rituals unfolding in a small clay ring - mostly preserved for generations - accomplished exactly that.

Discover the Prestigious Rikishi Event

This week-long competition at the iconic London venue features four dozen top-tier rikishi showcasing a sport whose first mention dates back to ancient times.

London's renowned auditorium has been completely reimagined, complete with a elaborate suspended canopy hanging above the dohyō.

Ancient Traditions Meet Current Innovations

It is here the competitors, known as sumo wrestlers, perform their foot stomping to banish evil spirits, and where they applaud to get the attention of the divine beings.

Above all this traditional ritual, a enormous circular monitor - that would fit perfectly at an NBA match - offers the audience all the stats and replays they could want.

Global Fans Discover Sumo

For Sian Spencer, it was a "random video" that first drew her interest a couple of years ago.

This was soon supplemented with the discovery of dedicated YouTube channels for sumo stables, where wrestlers live and train, waking up early to practice, followed by a high protein stew and then an daytime sleep - all in the effort toward increasing mass.

Traveling from the North, Alternative View

Different enthusiasts discovered sumo through a conventional method: a trip to Japan six years ago.

"We saw it as a common sightseeing event, but we actually came to adore the sport," says Julia.

"After that, we tried to discover networks, information, just to learn more about it," her partner continues.

Special Event

Going to Japan is typically the sole method to see a major championship.

This week's event marks only the second instance the tournament has come to London - the initial occasion was in the early nineties.

Even visiting the country isn't certain of securing tickets, with recent years seeing completely booked tournaments.

In-Person Viewing

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 force which you won't feel on TV," notes one fan. "They are so big."

The Bouts

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

The most use one of pair of techniques to succeed in this, often in moments - thrusting, or wrestling.

Either way, the impact of the two athletes colliding in the initial contact of the match resounds around the hall.

Premium Seating

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

During one recent bout, a 191cm wrestler went plummeting into the spectators - perhaps making those in more affordable locations feel relieved.

Organizational Issues

Of course, the dimensions of the rikishi is one of the initial aspects most people consider when they think of sumo.

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

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

Coming Obstacles

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

Its appeal among youth in Japan is also being challenged by alternative competitions, while Japan's declining population will not help.

Worldwide Following

Not that any of this has worried fans in London.

"Seeing all this custom and formality that is part of sumo is quite special," one enthusiast notes. "Now, seeing it live, you feel like you are more involved."

For other committed supporters, the drama "produced unforgettable moments" - as did interacting with the other fans.

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