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Only a handful of competitions can hold spectators spellbound through an extended period of ceremony before the first point is even contested.

Yet the detailed ceremonies unfolding in a traditional dohyō - virtually unchanged for hundreds of years - accomplished exactly that.

Discover the Grand Sumo Tournament

This five-day event at the Royal Albert Hall features four dozen top-tier sumo wrestlers showcasing a sport whose first mention dates back to the first century BC.

London's historic performance space has been completely reimagined, complete with a six-tonne Japanese temple roof hanging above the ring.

Time-Honored Rituals Meet Contemporary Displays

It is here the wrestlers, known as rikishi, perform their foot stomping to banish dark forces, and where they applaud to get the attention of the divine beings.

Above all this historical practice, a giant, revolving LED screen - which wouldn't look out of place at an American basketball game - offers the crowd all the data and video they could want.

International Enthusiasts Discover Sumo

For one dedicated fan, it was a "chance online clip" that first caught her attention a couple of years ago.

This was rapidly enhanced by the discovery of specialized online content for training facilities, where athletes reside and practice, rising before dawn to train, followed by a high protein stew and then an afternoon nap - all in the effort toward bulking up.

Traveling from the North, Alternative View

Another couple discovered sumo through a conventional method: a trip to Japan six years ago.

"We approached it as a typical visitor experience, but we actually came to adore the sport," notes the enthusiast.

"Subsequently, we tried to discover networks, information, just to deepen our understanding about it," her partner continues.

Special Event

Traveling to Asia is typically the sole method to see a elite competition.

This London competition marks only the second instance the tournament has come to London - the first time was in the early nineties.

Even visiting the country doesn't ensure of obtaining admission, with the past period seeing sold-out events.

Live Observation

For multiple fans, the current event represents the initial opportunity they have experienced the sport directly - and it doesn't disappoint.

"Observing directly, you get a understanding of quickness and the strength which you don't get on TV," explains an attendee. "Their stature is remarkable."

The Competition

To win the match, one rikishi needs to force his opponent from the dohyō or to the ground using physical force.

The majority use one of dual approaches to achieve this, often in instantaneous actions - thrusting, or grappling.

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

Front Row Positions

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

During one specific contest, a tall wrestler tumbled into the audience - perhaps making those in slightly cheaper seats feel relieved.

Behind the Scenes

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

The facility's operators revealed they "were required to locate and purchase additional seating 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 demanding existence of a rikishi doesn't look as appealing as it once might have.

Its appeal among young Japanese is also being competed with by other sports, while Japan's declining population will not help.

Worldwide Following

Not that any of this has troubled spectators in London.

"Experiencing the tradition and practice that accompanies sumo is particularly meaningful," fan Sian says. "Currently, observing it in person, you experience being you are more involved."

For other committed supporters, the drama "created amazing experiences" - as did encountering the like-minded individuals.

"Emerging from a very niche online community and being able to see all these sumo fans directly and being able to converse with other people who are just as into this as we are - it was absolutely worthwhile."