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Only a handful of competitions can hold spectators spellbound through three-quarters of an hour of tradition before the opening contest is even decided.

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

Welcome to the Prestigious Rikishi Event

This multi-day tournament at the Royal Albert Hall features 40 of the very best sumo wrestlers showcasing a sport whose earliest records dates back to the first century BC.

London's renowned auditorium has been completely reimagined, complete with a elaborate suspended canopy hanging above the competition area.

Ancient Traditions Meet Current Innovations

It is here the competitors, known as sumo professionals, perform their leg stomps to expel evil spirits, and where they clap to get the attention of the gods.

Above all this historical practice, a enormous circular monitor - that appears natural at an NBA match - offers the spectators all the statistics and footage they could want.

Global Fans Discover Sumo

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

This was rapidly enhanced by the discovery of focused video platforms 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 gaining weight.

Hailing from Scotland, Another Perspective

Another couple 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 developed passion for the sport," explains the fan.

"After that, we tried to discover networks, materials, just to learn more about it," adds Cezar.

Rare Opportunity

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

This week's event 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 obtaining admission, with the past period seeing completely booked tournaments.

First-Hand Experience

For multiple fans, the London tournament represents the initial opportunity they have seen live sumo - and it lives up to the hype.

"Seeing it up close, you get a feeling of velocity and the force which you won't feel on TV," says Caspar Eliot. "Their size is impressive."

The Bouts

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

The primary group use one of pair of techniques to succeed in this, often in instantaneous actions - shoving, or clenching.

Either way, the sound of the two rikishi crashing together in the opening second of the match resounds around the venue.

Prime Locations

The seats right next to the ring are of course greatly valued - but also, a bit risky.

During one particular match, a 191cm wrestler fell into the audience - perhaps making those in less expensive positions feel relieved.

Behind the Scenes

Of course, the size of the wrestlers is one of the initial aspects most people consider when they think of sumo.

The facility's operators 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 challenges behind the scenes.

Future Challenges

Perhaps the strict life of a professional athlete doesn't look as attractive as it once might have.

Its popularity among youth in Japan is also being challenged by different athletic pursuits, while Japan's decreasing numbers will present additional challenges.

International Network

Not that any of this has concerned enthusiasts in London.

"Witnessing these tradition and practice that goes with sumo is particularly meaningful," an attendee explains. "Currently, observing it live, you sense that you are more involved."

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

"Leaving 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 equally passionate as we are - it was worth every penny."