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

Yet the detailed ceremonies unfolding in a compact earthen circle - largely unaltered for centuries - succeeded in doing so.

Discover the Major Sumo Competition

This multi-day tournament at the Royal Albert Hall features numerous elite sumo wrestlers showcasing a sport whose first mention dates back to ancient times.

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

Historical Ceremonies Meet Contemporary Displays

It is here the competitors, known as rikishi, perform their foot stomping to drive away evil spirits, and where they clap to get the attention of the divine beings.

Above all this traditional ritual, a enormous circular monitor - which wouldn't look out of place at an NBA match - offers the spectators all the data and video they could want.

Worldwide Followers Discover Sumo

For Sian Spencer, it was a "unexpected footage" that first caught her attention a couple of years ago.

This was soon supplemented with the discovery of specialized online content for sumo stables, where wrestlers live and train, waking up early to work out, followed by a protein-rich meal and then an midday rest - all in the pursuit of gaining weight.

From Edinburgh, Alternative View

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

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

"Subsequently, we tried to find communities, materials, just to learn more about it," adds Cezar.

Rare Opportunity

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

This current tournament marks only the second instance the tournament has visited the city - the previous visit was in the early nineties.

Even visiting the country isn't certain of securing tickets, with the past period seeing completely booked tournaments.

In-Person Viewing

For many attendees, the UK competition represents the first time they have experienced the sport directly - and it doesn't disappoint.

"Observing directly, you get a sense of the speed and the strength which you don't get on TV," notes one fan. "Their size is impressive."

The Bouts

To succeed, one competitor needs to move the other man from the dohyō or to the floor using raw power.

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

Either way, the sound of the two rikishi colliding in the first moment of the match echoes around the auditorium.

Premium Seating

The seats right next to the dohyō are of course extremely sought-after - but also, somewhat dangerous.

During one specific contest, a tall wrestler fell into the audience - perhaps making those in slightly cheaper seats breathe a sigh of relief.

Organizational Issues

Of course, the size of the rikishi is one of the primary elements most people think of when they think of sumo.

The hall's organizers revealed they "were required to locate and purchase additional seating which can support 200kg in weight."

But sumo - for all its sell-out events - is not without its challenges behind the scenes.

Future Challenges

Perhaps the rigorous lifestyle of a professional athlete doesn't look as appealing as it once might have.

Its popularity among the younger generation is also being threatened by other sports, while Japan's falling birthrate will not help.

Global Community

Not that any of this has concerned enthusiasts in London.

"Experiencing the tradition and practice that goes with sumo is especially significant," fan Sian says. "Currently, observing it directly, you experience being you are more involved."

For other committed supporters, the excitement "made it so incredible" - as did meeting the fellow enthusiasts.

"Getting out of a very niche online community and being able to witness multiple sumo fans live and being able to converse with other people who are just as into this as we are - it was completely valuable."