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Not many athletic disciplines can hold spectators spellbound through 45 minutes of ceremony before the opening contest is even contested.

Yet the intricate traditions unfolding in a small clay ring - mostly preserved for generations - accomplished exactly that.

Experience the Grand Sumo Tournament

This multi-day tournament at the iconic London venue features 40 of the very best sumo wrestlers showcasing a sport whose initial documentation dates back to 23BC.

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

Historical Ceremonies Meet Current Innovations

It is here the competitors, known as sumo wrestlers, perform their shiko exercises to banish negative energies, and where they strike their hands to summon the gods.

Above all this ancient ceremony, a enormous circular monitor - that appears natural at an American basketball game - offers the spectators all the data and video they could want.

International Enthusiasts Discover Sumo

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

This was rapidly enhanced by the discovery of focused video platforms for sumo stables, where competitors stay and exercise, starting their day early to practice, followed by a nutritious chankonabe and then an midday rest - all in the pursuit of increasing mass.

From Edinburgh, Alternative View

Different enthusiasts discovered sumo through a more traditional route: a visit to the country six years ago.

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

"After that, we tried to find communities, resources, just to learn more about it," adds Cezar.

Unique Chance

Going to Japan is typically the sole method to see a major championship.

This current tournament marks only the second instance the tournament has appeared in the capital - the previous visit was in 1991.

Even going to Japan isn't certain of obtaining admission, with recent years seeing sold-out events.

First-Hand Experience

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

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

The Bouts

To win the match, one wrestler needs to move the other man from the dohyō or to the surface using brute strength.

The primary group use one of two styles to succeed in this, often in split seconds - pushing, or grappling.

Either way, the sound of the two rikishi meeting in the opening second of the match echoes around the hall.

Front Row Positions

The positions right next to the dohyō are of course highly prized - but also, somewhat dangerous.

During one recent bout, a tall wrestler tumbled into the spectators - perhaps making those in less expensive positions breathe a sigh of relief.

Internal Challenges

Of course, the stature of the athletes is one of the primary elements most people imagine when they consider the sport.

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

But sumo - for all its popular tournaments - is not without its difficulties behind the scenes.

Future Challenges

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

Its following among the younger generation is also being threatened by alternative competitions, while Japan's falling birthrate will not help.

Global Community

Not that any of this has concerned enthusiasts in London.

"Seeing all this custom and formality that goes with sumo is especially significant," fan Sian says. "Currently, observing it in person, you sense that you are more engaged."

For other committed supporters, the excitement "created amazing experiences" - as did encountering the fellow enthusiasts.

"Leaving a particularly focused online community and being able to observe numerous sumo fans live and being able to converse with other people who are similarly enthusiastic as we are - it was absolutely worthwhile."