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Few sports can keep viewers enthralled through 45 minutes of ceremony before the opening contest is even determined.

Yet the complex rituals unfolding in a traditional dohyō - virtually unchanged for generations - accomplished exactly that.

Experience the Major Sumo Competition

This week-long competition at the historic concert hall features numerous elite sumo wrestlers showcasing a sport whose first mention dates back to the first century BC.

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

Ancient Traditions Meet Modern Technology

It is here the competitors, known as rikishi, perform their leg stomps to expel evil spirits, and where they strike their hands to attract the gods.

Above all this traditional ritual, a massive rotating display - which wouldn't look out of place at an NBA match - offers the spectators all the stats and replays they could want.

Worldwide Followers Discover Sumo

For an enthusiastic follower, it was a "unexpected footage" that first drew her interest a couple of years ago.

This was rapidly enhanced by the discovery of dedicated YouTube channels for sumo stables, where athletes reside and practice, starting their day early to practice, followed by a nutritious chankonabe and then an afternoon nap - all in the service of increasing mass.

From Edinburgh, Different Experience

Another couple discovered sumo through a established path: a visit to the country six years ago.

"We considered it a typical visitor experience, but we actually developed passion for the sport," says Julia.

"From there on, we tried to find communities, resources, just to deepen our understanding about it," the other fan explains.

Rare Opportunity

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

This London competition marks only the second occasion the tournament has come to London - the previous visit was in the early nineties.

Even going to Japan isn't a guarantee of obtaining admission, with the past period seeing completely booked tournaments.

First-Hand Experience

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

"Watching nearby, you get a sense of the speed and the power which you won't feel on TV," says Caspar Eliot. "Their size is impressive."

The Bouts

To achieve victory, one competitor needs to move the other man off the clay or to the ground using brute strength.

The majority use one of pair of techniques to succeed in this, often in moments - pushing, or wrestling.

Either way, the sound of the two wrestlers colliding in the initial contact of the match resounds around the venue.

Prime Locations

The seats right next to the competition area are of course highly prized - but also, potentially hazardous.

During one recent bout, a large wrestler went plummeting into the spectators - perhaps making those in less expensive positions feel relieved.

Organizational Issues

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

The facility's operators revealed they "were required to locate and buy new chairs which can withstand 200kg in weight."

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

Future Challenges

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

Its following among young Japanese is also being challenged by other sports, while Japan's decreasing numbers will not help.

Worldwide Following

Not that any of this has troubled spectators in London.

"Seeing all this ritual and ceremony that is part of sumo is particularly meaningful," an attendee explains. "Now, seeing it directly, you experience being you are more involved."

For other committed supporters, the intensity "created amazing experiences" - as did meeting the other fans.

"Getting out of a very niche online community and being able to witness multiple sumo fans live and being able to speak to other people who are equally passionate as we are - it was worth every penny."