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Only a handful of competitions can hold spectators spellbound through 45 minutes of tradition before the initial score is even contested.

Yet the detailed ceremonies unfolding in a small clay ring - mostly preserved for hundreds of years - accomplished exactly that.

Welcome to the Grand Sumo Tournament

This five-day event at the historic concert hall features four dozen top-tier sumo wrestlers showcasing a sport whose first mention dates back to 23BC.

London's Victorian concert venue has been utterly transformed, complete with a six-tonne Japanese temple roof hanging above the dohyō.

Time-Honored Rituals Meet Contemporary Displays

It is here the competitors, known as rikishi, perform their foot stomping to expel evil spirits, and where they clap to attract the gods.

Above all this historical practice, a enormous circular monitor - that appears natural at an American basketball game - offers the spectators all the stats and replays they could want.

Worldwide Followers Discover Sumo

For one dedicated fan, it was a "chance online clip" that first captivated her a couple of years ago.

This was soon supplemented with the discovery of focused video platforms for training facilities, where competitors stay and exercise, waking up early to train, followed by a nutritious chankonabe and then an afternoon nap - all in the effort toward bulking up.

From Edinburgh, Different Experience

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

"We saw it as a very touristy activity, but we actually developed passion for the sport," says Julia.

"Subsequently, we tried to locate groups, resources, just to learn more about it," her partner continues.

Rare Opportunity

Visiting the homeland is almost the only way to see a top-flight sumo tournament.

This London competition marks only the second time the tournament has visited the city - the initial occasion was in the early nineties.

Even traveling to Asia doesn't ensure of getting a seat, with recent years seeing sold-out events.

First-Hand Experience

For many attendees, the London tournament represents the first time they have seen live sumo - and it doesn't disappoint.

"Observing directly, you get a feeling of velocity and the power which you won't feel on TV," notes one fan. "Their stature is remarkable."

The Competition

To win the match, one competitor needs to force his opponent off the clay or to the floor using brute strength.

The most use one of dual approaches to succeed in this, often in moments - shoving, or wrestling.

Either way, the noise of the two wrestlers colliding in the initial contact of the match echoes around the venue.

Premium Seating

The seats 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 audience - perhaps making those in slightly cheaper seats breathe a sigh of relief.

Internal Challenges

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

The venue's management revealed they "had to source and buy new chairs which can take up to 200kg in weight."

But sumo - for all its sell-out events - is not without its difficulties behind the scenes.

Future Challenges

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

Its following among young Japanese is also being challenged by different athletic pursuits, while Japan's falling birthrate will create further complications.

Worldwide Following

Not that any of this has concerned enthusiasts in London.

"Seeing all this custom and formality that is part of sumo is especially significant," an attendee explains. "Today, watching it live, you feel like you are more part of it."

For other committed supporters, the drama "made it so incredible" - as did interacting with the other fans.

"Emerging from a very niche online community and being able to witness multiple sumo fans live and being able to speak to other people who are similarly enthusiastic as we are - it was worth every penny."