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Not many athletic disciplines can keep viewers enthralled through three-quarters of an hour of ceremony before the first point is even determined.

Yet the detailed ceremonies unfolding in a traditional dohyō - largely unaltered for generations - accomplished exactly that.

Welcome to the Prestigious Rikishi Event

This week-long competition at the historic concert hall features four dozen top-tier sumo athletes showcasing a sport whose first mention dates back to 23BC.

London's Victorian concert venue has been totally redesigned, complete with a elaborate suspended canopy hanging above the competition area.

Historical Ceremonies Meet Modern Technology

It is here the competitors, known as sumo professionals, perform their foot stomping to banish negative energies, and where they strike their hands to summon the divine beings.

Above all this historical practice, a massive rotating display - that would fit perfectly at an professional sports event - offers the audience all the statistics and footage they could want.

Global Fans Find Sumo

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

This was quickly followed by the discovery of specialized online content for training facilities, where athletes reside and practice, starting their day early to train, followed by a high protein stew and then an afternoon nap - all in the pursuit of gaining weight.

Traveling from the North, Different Experience

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

"We considered it a very touristy activity, but we actually developed passion for the sport," explains the fan.

"Subsequently, we tried to find communities, resources, just to expand our knowledge about it," her partner continues.

Unique Chance

Visiting the homeland is almost the only way to see a major championship.

This week's event marks only the second time the tournament has appeared in the capital - the initial occasion was in the early nineties.

Even going to Japan doesn't ensure of getting a seat, with the past period seeing fully attended competitions.

Live Observation

For numerous spectators, the current event represents the initial opportunity they have watched sumo in person - and it exceeds expectations.

"Observing directly, you get a understanding of quickness and the power which you won't feel on TV," says Caspar Eliot. "They are so big."

The Matches

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

The majority use one of pair of techniques to accomplish this, often in instantaneous actions - thrusting, or grappling.

Either way, the impact of the two athletes crashing together in the first moment of the match resounds around the hall.

Premium Seating

The positions right next to the ring are of course greatly valued - but also, a bit risky.

During one particular match, a 191cm wrestler tumbled into the audience - perhaps making those in more affordable locations experience comfort.

Internal Challenges

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

The hall's organizers revealed they "needed to find and purchase additional seating 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 demanding existence of a rikishi doesn't look as attractive as it once might have.

Its popularity among the younger generation is also being competed with by alternative competitions, while Japan's declining population will present additional challenges.

Worldwide Following

Not that any of this has troubled spectators in London.

"Experiencing the custom and formality that accompanies sumo is particularly meaningful," fan Sian says. "Today, watching it in person, you experience being you are more engaged."

For other enthusiastic fans, the drama "made it so incredible" - as did meeting the like-minded individuals.

"Getting out of a particularly focused online community and being able to see all these sumo fans in person and being able to speak to other people who are equally passionate as we are - it was absolutely worthwhile."