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Few sports can hold spectators spellbound through 45 minutes of tradition before the first point is even decided.

Yet the detailed ceremonies unfolding in a traditional dohyō - largely unaltered for generations - succeeded in doing so.

Discover the Major Sumo Competition

This week-long competition at the iconic London venue features 40 of the very best sumo athletes showcasing a sport whose first mention dates back to 23BC.

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

Ancient Traditions Meet Modern Technology

It is here the wrestlers, known as sumo wrestlers, perform their leg stomps to drive away negative energies, and where they strike their hands 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 statistics and footage they could want.

Global Fans Discover Sumo

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

This was soon supplemented with the discovery of dedicated YouTube channels for sumo stables, where competitors stay and exercise, starting their day early to work out, followed by a nutritious chankonabe and then an afternoon nap - all in the service of gaining weight.

Hailing from Scotland, Another Perspective

Another couple discovered sumo through a established path: a journey to Asia six years ago.

"We considered it a very touristy activity, but we actually ended up loving the sport," explains the fan.

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

Unique Chance

Going to Japan is typically the sole method to see a top-flight sumo tournament.

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

Even visiting the country isn't a guarantee of getting a seat, with recent years seeing sold-out events.

In-Person Viewing

For numerous spectators, the UK competition represents the initial opportunity they have experienced the sport directly - and it doesn't disappoint.

"Observing directly, you get a feeling of velocity and the strength which you won't feel on TV," explains an attendee. "Their stature is remarkable."

The Competition

To win the match, one competitor needs to push another off the clay or to the surface using physical force.

The majority use one of pair of techniques to accomplish this, often in instantaneous actions - thrusting, or clenching.

Either way, the noise of the two athletes meeting in the opening second of the match echoes around the hall.

Front Row Positions

The seats right next to the ring are of course highly prized - but also, potentially hazardous.

During one particular match, a tall wrestler tumbled into the audience - perhaps making those in more affordable locations breathe a sigh of relief.

Behind the Scenes

Of course, the dimensions of the rikishi is one of the first things most people consider when they contemplate wrestling.

The venue's management revealed they "had to source and purchase additional seating which can support 200kg in weight."

But sumo - for all its successful competitions - is not without its challenges behind the scenes.

Potential Issues

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

Its popularity among youth in Japan is also being competed with by alternative competitions, while Japan's decreasing numbers will create further complications.

Global Community

Not that any of this has concerned enthusiasts in London.

"Witnessing these tradition and practice that accompanies sumo is particularly meaningful," an attendee explains. "Now, seeing it in person, you sense that you are more involved."

For other committed supporters, the excitement "produced unforgettable moments" - as did interacting with the fellow enthusiasts.

"Leaving a highly specialized online community and being able to observe numerous sumo fans directly and being able to speak to other people who are just as into this as we are - it was worth every penny."