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Only a handful of competitions can captivate an audience through an extended period of tradition before the opening contest is even contested.

Yet the detailed ceremonies unfolding in a small clay ring - mostly preserved for centuries - succeeded in doing so.

Welcome to the Grand Sumo Tournament

This five-day event at the historic concert hall features 40 of the very best sumo athletes showcasing a sport whose earliest records dates back to ancient times.

London's historic performance space has been completely reimagined, complete with a elaborate suspended canopy hanging above the ring.

Historical Ceremonies Meet Modern Technology

It is here the athletes, known as rikishi, perform their leg stomps to drive away dark forces, and where they applaud to summon the gods.

Above all this historical practice, a massive rotating display - which wouldn't look out of place at an professional sports event - offers the spectators all the stats and replays they could want.

International Enthusiasts Find Sumo

For Sian Spencer, it was a "chance online clip" that first caught her attention a couple of years ago.

This was rapidly enhanced by the discovery of dedicated YouTube channels for sumo stables, where athletes reside and practice, starting their day early to practice, followed by a high protein stew and then an afternoon nap - all in the pursuit of bulking up.

Traveling from the North, Alternative View

Different enthusiasts discovered sumo through a established path: a trip to Japan six years ago.

"We saw it as a very touristy activity, but we actually ended up loving the sport," says Julia.

"From there on, we tried to locate groups, resources, just to deepen our understanding about it," her partner continues.

Unique Chance

Going to Japan is typically the sole method to see a elite competition.

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

Even going to Japan doesn't ensure of securing tickets, with current times seeing fully attended competitions.

First-Hand Experience

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

"Seeing it up close, you get a understanding of quickness and the force which you can't experience on TV," explains an attendee. "Their stature is remarkable."

The Bouts

To succeed, one rikishi needs to move the other man from the dohyō or to the floor using brute strength.

The primary group use one of dual approaches to achieve this, often in moments - shoving, or wrestling.

Either way, the impact of the two athletes crashing together in the opening second of the match reverberates around the venue.

Premium Seating

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

During one recent bout, a large wrestler tumbled into the crowd - perhaps making those in slightly cheaper seats breathe a sigh of relief.

Behind the Scenes

Of course, the dimensions of the wrestlers is one of the initial aspects most people consider when they contemplate wrestling.

The facility's operators revealed they "needed to find and buy new chairs which can withstand 200kg in weight."

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

Coming Obstacles

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

Its appeal among youth in Japan is also being competed with by alternative competitions, while Japan's falling birthrate will create further complications.

Worldwide Following

Not that any of this has concerned enthusiasts in London.

"Experiencing the custom and formality that goes with sumo is quite special," an attendee explains. "Currently, observing it in person, you sense that you are more involved."

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

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