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

Yet the detailed ceremonies unfolding in a compact earthen circle - mostly preserved for generations - accomplished exactly that.

Welcome to the Prestigious Rikishi Event

This five-day event at the Royal Albert Hall features 40 of the very best sumo wrestlers showcasing a sport whose initial documentation dates back to the first century BC.

London's historic performance space has been totally redesigned, complete with a six-tonne Japanese temple roof hanging above the competition area.

Time-Honored Rituals Meet Modern Technology

It is here the wrestlers, known as sumo wrestlers, perform their foot stomping to expel dark forces, and where they clap to summon the deities.

Above all this historical practice, a giant, revolving LED screen - which wouldn't look out of place at an professional sports event - offers the spectators all the data and video they could want.

International Enthusiasts Embrace Sumo

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

This was quickly followed by the discovery of dedicated YouTube channels for training facilities, where wrestlers live and train, starting their day early to practice, followed by a protein-rich meal and then an afternoon nap - all in the effort toward increasing mass.

From Edinburgh, Another Perspective

Julia and her partner Cezar discovered sumo through a more traditional route: a visit to the country six years ago.

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

"From there on, we tried to find communities, information, just to deepen our understanding about it," adds Cezar.

Unique Chance

Traveling to Asia is almost the only way to see a major championship.

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

Even traveling to Asia isn't a guarantee of getting a seat, with current times seeing fully attended competitions.

First-Hand Experience

For numerous spectators, the London tournament represents the initial opportunity they have seen live sumo - and it exceeds expectations.

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

The Bouts

To win the match, one competitor needs to push another from the dohyō or to the floor using physical force.

The majority use one of dual approaches to succeed in this, often in split seconds - shoving, or grappling.

Either way, the noise of the two rikishi crashing together in the opening second of the match echoes around the auditorium.

Front Row Positions

The cushions right next to the dohyō are of course greatly valued - but also, potentially hazardous.

During one specific contest, a tall wrestler tumbled into the spectators - perhaps making those in slightly cheaper seats experience comfort.

Organizational Issues

Of course, the size of the wrestlers is one of the first things most people think of when they contemplate wrestling.

The venue's management revealed they "were required to locate and purchase additional seating which can withstand 200kg in weight."

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

Potential Issues

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

Its appeal among the younger generation is also being threatened by different athletic pursuits, while Japan's decreasing numbers will not help.

Worldwide Following

Not that any of this has troubled spectators in London.

"Experiencing the ritual and ceremony that accompanies sumo is quite special," fan Sian says. "Now, seeing it in person, you feel like you are more engaged."

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

"Emerging from a highly specialized online community and being able to observe numerous sumo fans live and being able to speak to other people who are similarly enthusiastic as we are - it was absolutely worthwhile."