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Not many athletic disciplines can keep viewers enthralled through three-quarters of an hour of ceremony before the initial score is even determined.

Yet the detailed ceremonies unfolding in a traditional dohyō - mostly preserved for centuries - accomplished exactly that.

Welcome to the Grand Sumo Tournament

This multi-day tournament at the iconic London venue features numerous elite sumo wrestlers showcasing a sport whose first mention dates back to 23BC.

London's Victorian concert venue has been totally redesigned, complete with a elaborate suspended canopy hanging above the ring.

Historical Ceremonies Meet Current Innovations

It is here the wrestlers, known as sumo professionals, perform their leg stomps to banish negative energies, and where they clap to summon the gods.

Above all this historical practice, a enormous circular monitor - which wouldn't look out of place at an professional sports event - offers the audience all the data and video they could want.

Global Fans Embrace Sumo

For an enthusiastic follower, it was a "random video" that first caught her attention a couple of years ago.

This was rapidly enhanced by the discovery of focused video platforms 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 bulking up.

Hailing from Scotland, Different Experience

Another couple discovered sumo through a more traditional route: a journey to Asia six years ago.

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

"From there on, we tried to locate groups, information, just to expand our knowledge about it," adds Cezar.

Rare Opportunity

Traveling to Asia is typically the sole method to see a major championship.

This week's event marks only the second occasion the tournament has come to London - the initial occasion was in over three decades ago.

Even going to Japan isn't certain of getting a seat, with the past period seeing sold-out events.

Live Observation

For multiple fans, the London tournament represents the initial opportunity they have watched sumo in person - and it exceeds expectations.

"Watching nearby, you get a sense of the speed and the power which you won't feel on TV," explains an attendee. "Their stature is remarkable."

The Matches

To win the match, one competitor needs to move the other man off the clay or to the floor using raw power.

The primary group use one of two styles to succeed in this, often in moments - thrusting, or clenching.

Either way, the noise of the two athletes crashing together in the initial contact of the match resounds around the venue.

Premium Seating

The seats right next to the dohyō are of course highly prized - but also, a bit risky.

During one recent bout, a 191cm wrestler fell into the spectators - perhaps making those in less expensive positions experience comfort.

Organizational Issues

Of course, the stature of the athletes is one of the primary elements most people imagine when they consider the sport.

The venue's management revealed they "had to source and acquire reinforced furniture which can take up to 200kg in weight."

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

Potential Issues

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

Its following among youth in Japan is also being challenged by different athletic pursuits, while Japan's falling birthrate will not help.

Worldwide Following

Not that any of this has troubled spectators in London.

"Witnessing these tradition and practice that is part of sumo is particularly meaningful," one enthusiast notes. "Today, watching it live, you sense that you are more engaged."

For other dedicated followers, the intensity "made it so incredible" - as did encountering the like-minded individuals.

"Getting out of a highly specialized online community and being able to see all these sumo fans live and being able to converse with other people who are similarly enthusiastic as we are - it was worth every penny."