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Not many athletic disciplines can hold spectators spellbound through three-quarters of an hour of tradition before the first point is even determined.

Yet the intricate traditions unfolding in a traditional dohyō - virtually unchanged for generations - succeeded in doing so.

Discover the Major Sumo Competition

This five-day event at the iconic London venue features numerous elite sumo athletes showcasing a sport whose first mention dates back to the first century BC.

London's renowned auditorium has been utterly transformed, complete with a massive traditional roof structure hanging above the ring.

Time-Honored Rituals Meet Modern Technology

It is here the athletes, known as sumo professionals, perform their leg stomps to expel negative energies, and where they applaud to get the attention of the deities.

Above all this historical practice, a giant, revolving LED screen - that would fit perfectly at an NBA match - offers the audience all the data and video they could want.

Worldwide Followers Embrace Sumo

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

This was rapidly enhanced by the discovery of specialized online content for training facilities, where competitors stay and exercise, starting their day early to work out, followed by a nutritious chankonabe and then an midday rest - all in the pursuit of increasing mass.

Hailing from Scotland, Alternative View

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

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

"After that, we tried to discover networks, resources, just to learn more about it," her partner continues.

Unique Chance

Going to Japan is generally the primary approach to see a elite competition.

This current tournament marks only the second instance the tournament has come to London - the first time was in 1991.

Even going to Japan doesn't ensure of getting a seat, with recent years seeing fully attended competitions.

Live Observation

For many attendees, the UK competition represents the premier chance they have experienced the sport directly - and it exceeds expectations.

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

The Bouts

To achieve victory, one wrestler needs to move the other man out of the ring or to the floor using raw power.

The majority use one of pair of techniques to achieve this, often in instantaneous actions - shoving, or clenching.

Either way, the sound of the two athletes crashing together in the initial contact of the match echoes around the venue.

Front Row Positions

The cushions right next to the dohyō are of course extremely sought-after - but also, potentially hazardous.

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

Behind the Scenes

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

The facility's operators revealed they "were required to locate and acquire reinforced furniture which can take up to 200kg in weight."

But sumo - for all its successful competitions - is not without its difficulties behind the scenes.

Coming Obstacles

Perhaps the rigorous lifestyle of a sumo wrestler doesn't look as desirable as it once might have.

Its appeal among youth in Japan is also being challenged by different athletic pursuits, while Japan's falling birthrate will create further complications.

Worldwide Following

Not that any of this has worried fans in London.

"Seeing all this tradition and practice that is part of sumo is especially significant," an attendee explains. "Today, watching it in person, you sense that you are more involved."

For other committed supporters, the excitement "produced unforgettable moments" - as did meeting the like-minded individuals.

"Emerging from a highly specialized online community and being able to observe numerous sumo fans directly and being able to chat with other people who are similarly enthusiastic as we are - it was worth every penny."