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Few sports can hold spectators spellbound through an extended period of tradition before the opening contest is even contested.

Yet the intricate traditions unfolding in a small clay ring - largely unaltered for generations - managed to do just that.

Experience the Major Sumo Competition

This multi-day tournament at the historic concert hall features numerous elite rikishi showcasing a sport whose earliest records dates back to ancient times.

London's Victorian concert venue has been completely reimagined, complete with a massive traditional roof structure hanging above the dohyō.

Ancient Traditions Meet Modern Technology

It is here the athletes, known as sumo wrestlers, perform their shiko exercises to expel evil spirits, and where they applaud to summon the deities.

Above all this historical practice, a enormous circular monitor - that appears natural at an professional sports event - offers the spectators all the stats and replays they could want.

Worldwide Followers Find Sumo

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

This was quickly followed by the discovery of focused video platforms for sumo stables, where wrestlers live and train, waking up early to work out, followed by a high protein stew and then an midday rest - all in the pursuit of gaining weight.

Traveling from the North, Different Experience

Different enthusiasts discovered sumo through a more traditional route: a trip to Japan six years ago.

"We saw it as a common sightseeing event, but we actually came to adore the sport," notes the enthusiast.

"Subsequently, we tried to locate groups, information, just to expand our knowledge about it," the other fan explains.

Unique Chance

Going to Japan is typically the sole method to see a elite competition.

This week's event marks only the second occasion the tournament has visited the city - the initial occasion was in the early nineties.

Even traveling to Asia isn't certain of getting a seat, with the past period seeing completely booked tournaments.

Live Observation

For many attendees, the current event represents the initial opportunity they have watched sumo in person - and it lives up to the hype.

"Watching nearby, you get a understanding of quickness and the force which you won't feel on TV," explains an attendee. "They are so big."

The Matches

To achieve victory, one competitor needs to move the other man out of the ring or to the floor using physical force.

The majority use one of two styles to accomplish this, often in instantaneous actions - shoving, or wrestling.

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

Prime Locations

The cushions right next to the ring are of course extremely sought-after - but also, a bit risky.

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

Internal Challenges

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

The hall's organizers revealed they "needed to find and purchase additional seating which can take up to 200kg in weight."

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

Future Challenges

Perhaps the demanding existence of a rikishi doesn't look as appealing as it once might have.

Its popularity among the younger generation is also being challenged by different athletic pursuits, while Japan's declining population will present additional challenges.

Worldwide Following

Not that any of this has worried fans in London.

"Seeing all this custom and formality that goes with sumo is especially significant," an attendee explains. "Now, seeing it in person, you feel like you are more engaged."

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

"Getting out of a particularly focused online community and being able to see all these sumo fans live and being able to chat with other people who are similarly enthusiastic as we are - it was worth every penny."