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Not many athletic disciplines can captivate an audience through an extended period of tradition before the initial score is even contested.

Yet the detailed ceremonies unfolding in a compact earthen circle - largely unaltered for centuries - accomplished exactly that.

Discover the Major Sumo Competition

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

London's renowned auditorium has been utterly transformed, complete with a elaborate suspended canopy hanging above the competition area.

Time-Honored Rituals Meet Current Innovations

It is here the athletes, known as sumo wrestlers, perform their foot stomping to expel negative energies, and where they strike their hands to summon the divine beings.

Above all this ancient ceremony, a giant, revolving LED screen - that appears natural at an professional sports event - offers the spectators all the data and video they could want.

Worldwide Followers Discover Sumo

For an enthusiastic follower, 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 competitors stay and exercise, waking up early to practice, followed by a high protein stew and then an afternoon nap - all in the pursuit of gaining weight.

Hailing from Scotland, Another Perspective

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

"We considered it a typical visitor experience, but we actually ended up loving the sport," notes the enthusiast.

"From there on, we tried to locate groups, materials, just to learn more about it," the other fan explains.

Unique Chance

Traveling to Asia is almost the only way to see a top-flight sumo tournament.

This week's event marks only the second time the tournament has appeared in the capital - the initial occasion was in over three decades ago.

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

First-Hand Experience

For multiple fans, the UK competition represents the first time they have watched sumo in person - and it doesn't disappoint.

"Observing directly, you get a understanding of quickness and the strength which you won't feel on TV," explains an attendee. "Their size is impressive."

The Competition

To win the match, one competitor needs to push another from the dohyō or to the ground using brute strength.

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

Either way, the sound of the two athletes crashing together in the initial contact of the match echoes around the hall.

Premium Seating

The cushions right next to the competition area are of course extremely sought-after - but also, somewhat dangerous.

During one recent bout, a tall wrestler fell into the spectators - perhaps making those in more affordable locations experience comfort.

Behind the Scenes

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

The hall's organizers revealed they "were required to locate and acquire reinforced furniture which can support 200kg in weight."

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

Future Challenges

Perhaps the rigorous lifestyle of a sumo wrestler doesn't look as attractive as it once might have.

Its popularity among youth in Japan is also being threatened by other sports, while Japan's declining population will not help.

Worldwide Following

Not that any of this has concerned enthusiasts in London.

"Experiencing the tradition and practice that goes with sumo is especially significant," fan Sian says. "Today, watching it live, you experience being you are more engaged."

For other dedicated followers, the drama "produced unforgettable moments" - as did interacting with the like-minded individuals.

"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 absolutely worthwhile."