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Only a handful of competitions can hold spectators spellbound through 45 minutes of ritual before the initial score is even contested.

Yet the intricate traditions unfolding in a traditional dohyō - virtually unchanged for centuries - managed to do just that.

Welcome to the Prestigious Rikishi Event

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

London's historic performance space has been completely reimagined, complete with a massive traditional roof structure hanging above the ring.

Ancient Traditions Meet Modern Technology

It is here the competitors, known as sumo wrestlers, perform their shiko exercises to drive away evil spirits, and where they applaud to get the attention of the deities.

Above all this historical practice, a enormous circular monitor - that appears natural at an American basketball game - offers the crowd all the stats and replays they could want.

Worldwide Followers Embrace Sumo

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

This was soon supplemented with the discovery of dedicated YouTube channels for training facilities, where athletes reside and practice, waking up early to work out, followed by a protein-rich meal and then an midday rest - all in the effort toward gaining weight.

Traveling from the North, Another Perspective

Different enthusiasts discovered sumo through a more traditional route: a journey to Asia six years ago.

"We considered it a very touristy activity, but we actually came to adore the sport," notes the enthusiast.

"From there on, we tried to discover networks, resources, just to learn more about it," her partner continues.

Unique Chance

Visiting the homeland is typically the sole method to see a major championship.

This London competition marks only the second time the tournament has come to London - the initial occasion was in over three decades ago.

Even going to Japan doesn't ensure of securing tickets, with the past period seeing completely booked tournaments.

First-Hand Experience

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

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

The Bouts

To succeed, one wrestler needs to push another from the dohyō or to the floor using brute strength.

The most use one of pair of techniques to accomplish this, often in split seconds - thrusting, or clenching.

Either way, the noise 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 extremely sought-after - but also, somewhat dangerous.

During one recent bout, a large wrestler tumbled into the audience - perhaps making those in more affordable locations experience comfort.

Behind the Scenes

Of course, the size of the rikishi 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 acquire reinforced furniture which can support 200kg in weight."

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

Coming Obstacles

Perhaps the strict life of a sumo wrestler doesn't look as appealing as it once might have.

Its following among young Japanese is also being challenged by alternative competitions, while Japan's declining population will not help.

Worldwide Following

Not that any of this has worried fans in London.

"Seeing all this ritual and ceremony that is part of sumo is especially significant," one enthusiast notes. "Today, watching it live, you feel like you are more engaged."

For other enthusiastic fans, the excitement "produced unforgettable moments" - as did encountering the fellow enthusiasts.

"Getting out of a very niche online community and being able to observe numerous sumo fans directly and being able to chat with other people who are just as into this as we are - it was absolutely worthwhile."